Urologist debunks the most interesting myths about sex in old age - voila! health

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Since the dawn of history, sex has always interested us and it is natural and even healthy. But despite the healthy discourse that has arisen mainly in recent years around sexuality issues, among men and especially (and no, not "size" issues) there still remains a topic that is not talked about.

Here are some prominent myths that are still being heard in urologists' clinics, yes also in 2023.

Myth: Men have a harder time having sex after age 50 Fact: While it is true that at least half of men over the age of 50

experience some degree of erectile dysfunction, a healthy man can continue to be aroused until later in life. The problem is that his erection won't be as strong or lasting as it was when he was in his 20s and 30s. Erectile dysfunction can be treated with shockwave therapy, prescription drugs, injection therapy, instruments and even a prosthesis.

A couple having sex in bed (Photo: ShutterStock)

Myth: Sex can be dangerous to an older

person's health Fact: On the contrary, sexual activity has health-enhancing properties. In addition to raising heart rate, sexual peak (orgasm) releases the hormone oxytocin, which relieves stress and supports positive thinking. If there are physical limitations like joint or muscle pain, couples can explore new poses and use pillows for support. By the way, 45 percent of people aged 65 to 80 who are in good health say they are sexually active.

Myth: I can't talk to my GP about my erectile dysfunction. They'll be embarrassed and can't do anything about it.

Fact: Doctors today are very trained in men's sexual health and erectile dysfunction and understand that impotence and erectile dysfunction are sensitive and sometimes stressful situations. The concern is misplaced, doctors are comfortable talking about erectile dysfunction and are
here to help. As a first step on the road to recovery, your therapist will listen to your concerns, work to understand your symptoms and overall health, and develop a personalized
treatment plan that works for you. When it comes to your sexual health, nothing is taboo when it comes to your urologist.

Myth: The only solution to erectile dysfunction is Viagra.

Fact: While common oral medications like Viagra and Cialis have become famous, they are not the only treatment option for erectile dysfunction. Oral medications, although considered the magic pill by many men with erectile dysfunction, can also have unpleasant side effects. While pills are often a good place to start when it comes to treating erectile dysfunction and increasing blood flow to the penis, other treatment options such as an erectile vacuum device, injections, and a penile prosthetic implant may be more appropriate depending on a number of physical and medical factors. In any case, you should consult with your doctor who will work with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs and overall health.

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A man takes a Viagra pill before sex (Photo: ShutterStock, Photoroyalty)

Myth: I just had a radical prostatectomy to treat my prostate cancer. I will probably
have to live with erectile dysfunction as a result of the surgery for the rest of my life.

Fact: While erectile dysfunction is a common side effect of radical prostatectomy and other prostate cancer treatments, many men restore their erectile function over time thanks to effective protocols to treat the issue. In fact, our doctors use a number of successful, evidence-based treatment protocols for men who experience erectile dysfunction following radical prostatectomy.

Myth: Testosterone supplements cure erectile dysfunction Fact: Testosterone regain helps treat low libido and can even improve the effectiveness of drug treatment but does not cure erectile dysfunction

. Only a medical professional can accurately assess your testosterone levels. Testesterone returns improve other health aspects such as: thinking ability, memory, mood, muscle mass.

Erection dysfunction itself varies between cases, so while one man will not be able to achieve an erection at all, another man may have a problem with an erection that comes and goes, and the third will have difficulty achieving sufficient penetration in full sexual intercourse. The textbook definition of erectile dysfunction is the inability to get and maintain an erection that is sufficient to engage in sex so, as you can see, that covers a wide variety of situations. If you notice that your erection is not as strong as it used to be, you may want to follow up with a urologist.

Dr. Shmuel Roizman is a specialist in functional and reconstructive urological surgery at Rafael Hospital

• health
• Sex and sexual dysfunction

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• sex
• urology