Rev. Albright Benibensu, the Vice President of the Ghana Psychological Association, has urged men experiencing Erectile Dysfunction (ED) to seek psychological help.
He emphasized that while some cases of ED are medical, many are psychological and should not be overlooked. Rev. Benibensu advised men with ED to consult psychologists rather than resorting to drug abuse.
According to John Hopkins Medicine, Erectile Dysfunction is defined as a persistent inability to achieve or maintain penile erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. Risk factors for ED include being overweight, lack of exercise, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and smoking.
In Ghana, Rev. Benibensu highlighted that ED is often triggered by increased stress and misinformation on sexuality, leading to performance anxiety. Economic pressures, workload, long travel distances to work, housing problems, and noise pollution are factors that contribute to ED among men in Ghana.
Dr. Kelvin Owusu, a Wellness Consultant Doctor at Violet’s Medical Center, cautioned against the uncontrolled and continued use of alcoholic and non-alcoholic aphrodisiacs, as they may worsen ED conditions and predispose men to health complications like kidney and liver dysfunction or failure. He emphasized that the best aphrodisiac for sexual performance is exercise and healthy living, as it improves heart health naturally.
Dr. Owusu also mentioned that every man will experience ED at some point in life, depending on various factors. Research indicates that penetrative sex typically lasts from three to six minutes. The International Index on Erectile Function (IIEF) predicts a significant increase in the number of men worldwide experiencing ED by 2025, with Africa being disproportionately affected.
The sale of sex enhancers is a growing business in Ghana, with some individuals preparing their concoctions. However, Mr. Kingsley Boamah, a pharmacist, expressed concern about the societal pressure for men to be strong in bed, which often leads to health crises.
Dr. Kenneth Klufio, a specialist urologist at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, urged men experiencing ED to seek medical help, as there are treatments available to manage the condition. He stressed the importance of addressing ED, as it significantly impacts a person’s quality of life and happiness.
