(BPT) - Sponsored by IBSA USA
Demanding careers. Evolving family priorities. Staying connected with partners. These are just a few of the pressures men may face in midlife. If these challenges were not enough, midlife can often be accompanied by the unwanted arrival of erectile dysfunction (ED).1
A private, isolating struggle
Today, ED is becoming more prominent in everyday conversation. Advertisements and other forms of direct-to-consumer marketing are more visible across broadcast media and social channels. However, for some men, ED remains a private condition that can carry emotional and psychological burden.2
"The stigma and uncertainty surrounding ED can make men feel isolated at the very moment they need reassurance most," said Dr. Ralph Zagha, a board-certified urologist in Tamarac, FL. "It's a burden that's not limited to older populations, as we are seeing a number of cases of ED in men aged 18-44."3
An unsure treatment journey
Many men with ED do not seek or receive care, with U.S. data showing that only a small portion discuss symptoms with a healthcare provider.4 Finding the right treatment is often not a simple, one-step process.
Awareness may begin with frustration or confusion, followed by online searches or conversations with partners. Some individuals eventually consult clinicians in person, while others may turn to telehealth for more convenience, greater privacy and improved access to care.5
As telehealth expands and cultural attitudes shift, men are increasingly turning to ED treatment options that are convenient and discreet. Evidence suggests that embarrassment and privacy concerns contribute to this shift, with telehealth platforms offering more private and accessible care that may encourage seeking treatment.6,7
Modern treatment options, designed for real life
Recent treatment advances are expanding how ED can be managed, potentially offering flexibility to fit individual needs and lifestyles. These features including simple dosing and no restrictions on food or water timing.8
With a range of dosing options and formulations available, care can be tailored based on personal needs and response.9 These innovations may help address common barriers and support men in seeking care.
Talk to your doctor
ED is a medical condition and treatment often begins with a conversation. Men experiencing symptoms or considering new options are encouraged to speak with a healthcare provider to better understand what approaches may be right for them.
Dr. Zagha is a paid consultant to IBSA Pharma Inc.
- Charles, S. (October 2025). Erectile dysfunction and age: What you need to know. Verywell Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/erectile-dysfunction-and-age-5200761
- Allen, M. S., Wood, A. M., & Sheffield, D. (2023). The psychology of erectile dysfunction. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 32(6), 487–493. https://doi.org/10.1177/09637214231192269
- Mark, K. P., Arenella, K., Girard, A., Herbenick, D., Fu, J., & Coleman, E. (2024). Erectile dysfunction prevalence in the United States: Report from the 2021 National Survey of Sexual Wellbeing. *The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 21*(4), 296–303. https://doi.org/10.1093/jsxmed/qdae008
- International Society for Sexual Medicine. (n.d.). Prevalence of erectile dysfunction in the United States. ISSM Sexual Health Headlines. https://www.issm.info/sexual-health-headlines/prevalence-of-erectile-dysfunction-in-the-united-states
- Li, M. K., Patel, D. P., & Hsieh, T.-C. (2025). Direct-to-consumer erectile dysfunction medications: Is the convenience worth the cost? Current Urology Reports, 26(1), 69. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11934-025-01302-3
- Brink, S. M., Iarajuli, T., & Shin, D. (2023). Characteristics of direct-to-consumer platforms offering erectile dysfunction treatment. Sexual Medicine, 11(4), qfad038. https://doi.org/10.1093/sexmed/qfad038
- Sexual Medicine Society of North America. (May 2024). The intersection of telemedicine and men's health. https://www.smsna.org/patients/news/the-intersection-of-telemedicine-and-mens-health
- Pham, Q. M., Yannas, D., Sansone, A., Romero-Otero, J., Vendeira, P., Frangione, V., & Jannini, E. A. (2025). Food effect on pharmacokinetic profiles of sildenafil 100 mg oral films in healthy male volunteers: Results from two randomized, single dose, crossover studies. Sexual Medicine, 13(5), qfaf096. https://doi.org/10.1093/sexmed/qfaf096
- Shen, J., Park, D., Bash, J., & Andino, J. (2026). Advances in erectile dysfunction management: What does work. Trends in Urology & Men's Health. https://doi.org/10.1002/tre.70027
