Today’s episode of the Erectile Dysfunction Radio Podcast is about the difficult situation that arises when a partner feels as though the presence of erectile dysfunction in the relationship is their fault. As a certified sex therapist, our podcast’s host has seen this issue affect many couples in a very negative way.

The Erectile Dysfunction Radio Podcast is dedicated to educating and empowering men to address erectile dysfunction, improve confidence, and enhance the satisfaction in their relationships. This podcast is hosted by certified sex therapist, Mark Goldberg, LCMFT, CST.

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On today’s episode, we’re going to be talking about the experience of the partners of men experiencing erectile dysfunction. One of the most challenging aspects of erectile dysfunction is the impact that it has on a man’s partner. Let me be clear, having erectile dysfunction is difficult for the man who’s experiencing it, and can also be very difficult for his partner.

Changes to the sexual repertoire can be difficult as couples adjust to the realities of erectile dysfunction and can detract from sexual enjoyment and comfort. Communication issues can also emerge as a man may be reluctant to openly discuss his challenges and his partner maybe equally as hesitant to raise the issue. Both of these issues will be discussed on future episodes.

Today, we are focused on another common challenge, and that is when a partner thinks that they are responsible or at fault for erectile dysfunction. If you have listened to this podcast, you already know that erectile dysfunction is a multi-factorial condition.

Generally speaking, a partner is not the sole cause and is likely not responsible for erectile dysfunction. So why do partners assume that they are the cause? One of the interesting things about erectile dysfunction is that men who are experiencing it will try to figure out what is causing it.

They tend to focus on what seem like the obvious causes, but these obvious causes are often informed by what is convenient or what allows a man to deflect, or alternatively, what makes a man feel insecure. Partners are no different, they often find explanations that fit with their own insecurities. Let’s talk about some of the common insecurities that partners of men experiencing ED may be feeling or encountering.

The first is aging. As men age, the likelihood of erectile dysfunction increases. It is fair to assume that their partners are aging too. Our culture and society put a premium on youth, and people are sensitive about losing their youthful stride and energy. For heterosexual couples, the female partner can be harboring her own sensitivities about a changing body, fluctuations in libido and life transitions.

The notion that aging is synonymous with a fading of sexual drive and interest does not have to be true. In my clinical experience, I have never heard a man say that he needs a younger woman in order to perform. The truth is, more often than not, aging men struggle to keep up with their partners and often appreciate their partner’s interest and more robust libido.

Another common insecurity revolves around physical attraction. As we mentioned earlier, physical attraction is only a part of what can impact erections. Yes, it is a real component and can create some genuine challenges. Sometimes those concerns will have to be spoken about in order to create an optimal environment to gain and maintain an erection.

But more often than not, it is a convenient excuse, and that is how your partner copes with the distressing condition. If your man has erectile dysfunction and isn’t talking to you about it, don’t assume that it is an attraction issue. If he has implied or overtly blamed you, please remember, it is unlikely that he actually knows what is causing his ED. I have seen this countless times in my office, men discover more about the complexity of their erection process and experience regret and remorse about having blamed their partners.

A common question that partners of men experiencing ED will encounter is whether he is having an affair? It is common that men experiencing erectile dysfunction will avoid sexual engagement. Changes in initiation, frequency, and avoidance by either partner can raise concerns about infidelity. There is a common belief that he must be getting it from somewhere, and if sexual activity is not happening at home, it can be concerning. When a man experiences erectile dysfunction, a partner may conclude that he only experiences ED with them, but must be fine when he is with other people. So no one can tell you that your partner is or is not having an affair.

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