## Possible causes Erectile dysfunction is a condition when a man does not have enough of an erection to have sex. The penis either does not "get up," or it "gets up" and "falls." If this happens infrequently, there is nothing to worry about. However, it is worth going to the doctor if erectile dysfunction is recurring. Possible causes of erectile dysfunction include stress, sedentary lifestyle, overexertion, alcohol consumption, smoking, and poor diet. There are also physiological reasons including diabetes, obesity, heart problems, atherosclerosis, hypertension, hormonal imbalance, and low levels of the sex hormone testosterone, which inevitably decreases with age. ## Ways to improve sexual potency __Regular sex life__: the reproductive male organs require constant training. Men need to avoid long periods of abstinence. Sex keeps the whole body healthy, improves sperm quality, and increases sperm count. Regular sexual intercourse prevents the development of impotence. __Proper nutrition__: excess weight is the enemy of potency, and it also ===becomes the cause of other diseases that also affect male strength. Men need vitamins in the C, E, and B groups as well as zinc, selenium, phosphorus, and potassium. Include in your diet such foods as nuts, honey, garlic, legumes, proteins, egg yolks, chocolate, stewed carrots, hot spices. You can drink a couple of cups of coffee a day because scientists have proven that caffeine dilates blood vessels and increases blood flow. __Regular physical activity__: Exercises that involve the legs, such as swimming, running, skiing, cycling, and tennis, are especially helpful. Such load increases blood circulation in the pelvic organs. In addition to prevention, aerobic exercise can also help treat erectile dysfunction. And do kegel exercises — they are good not only for women but also for men to help improve sexual activity. __Check testosterone levels__: this is the male sex hormone. Low levels result in decreased libido, weakness, poor muscle growth, depression, and erectile dysfunction. Your doctor may prescribe hormone therapy. __Reduce stress and alcohol consumption__: these are enemies of potency that depress sexual function, so reduce them as much as possible. __Medication assistance__: there are several drugs that quickly and temporarily affect the biochemical processes in the erectile tissue, which leads to increased blood flow to the penis. The vascular reaction occurs under the influence of sexual stimuli. ## See a doctor Any ailment is worth discussing with a doctor, and this includes issues with potency. A urologist will prescribe one or more of the following: - Urine and blood tests to rule out some diseases and determine testosterone levels - Ultrasound of the genitals, which will show problems with blood flow - Examination for genital infections - Consultation with a psychologist