In a nutshell
This study looked at a potential link between erectile dysfunction (ED) and depression. It concluded patients with ED were more likely to have depression and patients with depression should be tested for ED.
Some background
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is when you cannot achieve or maintain an erection firm enough to have sex. ED can be caused or worsened by mental health problems such as depression, low self-esteem, anxiety, guilt, stress or worry. It can be treated by lifestyle changes, medication, vacuum devices or surgery.
Lifestyle changes and medications do not work for everyone. Vacuum devices can also be difficult to use. Surgery is used when these options do not work but surgery can lead to complications also. It is important to research a link between mental health and erectile dysfunction.
Methods & findings
The authors searched databases for studies analyzing the link between ED and depression. High quality studies were included. Statistical analysis was performed on 46 studies.
After statistical analysis, the authors determined a link between ED and depression. The found that having ED increased the risk of developing depression by 192%. They also found that having depression increased the risk of developing ED by 39%.
The bottom line
This study concluded that erectile dysfunction increases the risk of depression and having depression increases the risk of ED.
The fine print
The authors note that the assessment of depression and ED in each study was different. This may affect the study results.
What’s next?
If you wish to find out more about the relationship between ED and depression, contact your doctor.
Published By :
The journal of sexual medicine
Date :
Jun 27, 2018
