In addition to psychological factors, physical influences also play a role in the development of an erection. If erectile dysfunction develops over time, it is advisable to consider a urological examination . If the penis shows nocturnal and morning erection reactions and also functions during solo sex, it can be assumed that everything is fine on a physical level. What emotional consequences can erectile dysfunction have?

Emotional consequences and other aftereffects of erectile dysfunction

-               Thought carousel

-               Suffering pressure

-                shame

-               speechlessness

-               missing and limited connection to the body

-               sexual discomfort

-               sexual disinterest

The list is not complete and does not contain a hierarchical sequence. Nevertheless, many clients report these symptoms in therapy. What are the consequences?

The question "Am I normal?" is what drives many people to my practice, and although the topic of erectile dysfunction is a common theme in many studies and in the media, the question seems to be central here too. Here I clearly emphasised: Yes, it is normal for the penis not to always be perfectly erect or for the hardness to fluctuate!

Clients who suffer from erectile dysfunction question their masculinity. This means that the topic is rarely discussed in men's circles or among friends, because questioning masculinity can be very personal and sometimes emotional. This means that sex therapy can have a decisive influence in counteracting the progression of erectile dysfunction.

In my therapeutic work, I work with the Sexocorporel model. It is a model based on the unity of body and mind. In addition to talk therapy, physical and perception exercises are also taught. These can then be intensified and repeated at home. The exercises are tailored to the client's needs and support resources.

In concrete terms, this means the following: In sex therapy, I first evaluate how the erection difficulty manifests itself, how long it has been present and in which situations it occurs. I clarify medical factors and include them in the anamnesis. The intake of any medication is also taken into account and included if necessary. The following steps are central to my discussions:

Therapeutic steps

Identifying a client’s strengths and resources in order to incorporate them into therapy.

“Developing an understanding of the penis”: This means that the client understands that his actions, habits and ways of thinking influence and may even cause erection difficulties.

Once this foundation is in place, exercises can be incorporated and adapted to the client's strengths and resources.

Practice examples

• “Getting to know the penis”: incorporate mindful touching into everyday life, focus on the body and appreciate the perceptions that arise. The experience is key!
• Pelvic swing (below an example while standing)

• Play with the pelvic floor muscles (initially without arousal)
• Abdominal breathing to promote and connect emotions and the relationship to the penis
• Incorporate and play with soft and sensual movements
• Incorporating the voice for greater enjoyment

It is important to note that this implementation takes time! The body needs time to process these new movements, experiences and perceptions. When practicing solo sexuality, there can always be setbacks before you feel safe and comfortable in your body. The more repetitions there are, the more positive connections can be made between the body and the brain. Beginning to practice solo sexuality is also crucial to gaining confidence in relation to erections. When awareness of your own body increases and the client has learned to "stay with themselves", the ability to have an erection can increase and also be successful in couple sexuality.

Without any pressure, you have the power to make your erection soar!

literature
K. Bischof, A. Bischof-Campbell, S. Fuchs, (2020): Training in Sexocorporel, Issue 4

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