I use to have no problems getting an erection, just thinking of a past experience sometimes would do it. Lately, I started taking those supplements, like Viagra and Pro solutions, that state they will help give penis size, harder erection, and better orgasms, but I feel they are working in reverse. Now it seems I am unable to get a full erection unless I am fully into a sexual action. It stays about 1/2 until I get closer to the orgasm. I also have used Cialis once in a while, which seemed to help at first, but it's not like it was in the past. Any help would be great.

First, I recommend you stop taking any supplements claiming to give you a larger, harder erection and better orgasms. There is no clinical research to prove any of those products work and many of them can have unpopular side effects. Cialis, when used correctly, will produce an erection in a man. The key is that you will need stimulation to start the process. If you do not have stimulation, you decrease the likelihood of having an erection. I hope you find this valuable. - Answer provided by Jason S. Quintal, Ph.D., MSW, LCSW, DrJ@RelationshipSpecialties.com, www.RelationshipSpecialties.com.

Some factors affecting erection are: age, sexual experiences, psychological traumas and medical history. For example, possible contributing physical conditions are depression, physical injury, hypertension, diabetes, arterial sclerosis, low testosterone, high body fat or cholesterol. In addition, most sexual performance dietary supplements are unproven and may even be harmful. Cialis and other performance-enhancing prescription drugs have a diminished return the longer you use them. For this reason, it’s advisable to use them sparingly, if at all. As a first step, consult a urologist for a full medical check-up to rule out any of the above conditions. In addition, I recommend beginning Kegel exercises. The Kegel exercise involves contracting the pubococcygeal (PC) muscles. A strong PC muscle contributes to a firm erection and stronger orgasmic sensations. To accomplish the Kegel exercise, tighten and release anal sphincter muscles and urinary sphincter muscles for 10 to 20 seconds at least 4 times per day. Some of the benefits of this exercise are greater urinary retention, prevention of premature ejaculation, and enhanced orgasm/ejaculation. - Answer provided by Janice M. Epp, Ph.D., DrJanice@iashs.edu, www.sexhelp.org/cafol/epp.htm.


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