Getting Pregnant When ED Is At Play
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a condition in males that can negatively affect fertility. To conceive, sperm must fertilize an egg to create an embryo. If a man cannot maintain an erection long enough to engage in sexual intercourse and ejaculate, pregnancy will not occur. However, there are solutions to the problem. With medication and fertility treatment, men with ED can still experience the joy of fatherhood.
Understanding erectile dysfunction
There are many causes of ED, including diabetes, heart disease, the use of certain medications, depression, anxiety, and a general worry about sexual performance. The condition is common, affecting about 30 million men in the United States. ED is not expected to impact the quality of the sperm, but since ED can be associated with general health in males, infertility may be an accompanying issue. Identifying the underlying cause can help dictate appropriate treatment.
Medications can help
For some men, especially individuals with performance issues, medications can help. When taken before intercourse, phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors can treat ED by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. This increased blood flow can cause an erection, allowing ejaculation to occur. In other cases, treating the underlying health problem can solve the issue. For example, men with diabetes can take medication to control the condition, improving overall health and decreasing the chances of ED showing up in the bedroom.
Add in IUI for added security
Some men may not want to take medication long-term but will consider short-term use to aid in conception. In this situation, intrauterine insemination (IUI) can be helpful. The male partner will need to ejaculate just once to provide a sperm sample. Taking an ED medication before the appointment can help. The sperm sample will be cleaned and consolidated, then placed inside the uterus at the optimal time in the cycle.
Advanced assistance with IVF
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is typically the next step on the path to fertility if IUI fails. The male’s role is essentially the same with this procedure. A sperm sample will be collected at a convenient time. The woman uses medication to increase the production of eggs and then undergoes a retrieval. Both samples are then combined in the lab to create an embryo. Once at an optimal size, the embryo is implanted into the woman’s uterus. For men with ED, IVF can provide a sense of security. A single sperm sample can be used for multiple cycles, and IVF is known to result in higher rates of pregnancy when compared with intrauterine insemination.
Don’t face ED alone
Although some men may be embarrassed by ED issues, identifying the root cause is important. Positive health changes and the use of medications to control the underlying problem or help with performance during intercourse can make a big difference. If ED issues persist, fertility treatment, such as IUI or IVF, can help. If the man can produce a single sperm sample in the office without the stress of intercourse interfering, pregnancy is possible.
