Why is Men’s Health Important?
There are many health issues specific to men, and many struggle to take care of their mental and physical health, resulting in an average lifespan about five years shorter than women. Men are more likely to skip check-ups and routine doctor visits and try to “walk off” most injuries. They’re also more likely to neglect mental health issues, in part due to society’s insistence that men appear “macho” and stoic at all times. Because of these unique risks, both social, mental, and physical, it’s vital for men to understand the importance of preventative healthcare and take steps to address their wellness.
What are Common Men’s Health Issues?
Heart disease, skin, prostate, and lung cancer, diabetes, erectile dysfunction, sexually transmitted infections, low testosterone, depression, and, recently, COVID-19 are some of the most common health issues men face. The most important preventative measure one can take is to visit your doctor regularly to get screened for these issues. Quitting bad habits like smoking and drinking and adding good habits like eating healthy, using sunscreen, and exercising are also important preventative measures. Various risks tend to increase with age, and one of the most common physical complaints is a decline in virility, which can itself lead to mental distress. Men may express their depression symptoms as irritability or anger in addition to or rather than the usual ones. It is also more probable for them to cast these feelings aside and not seek help. There is a social stigma for men to talk about or even have feelings about certain things, but preventative healthcare is just as significant for mental health issues as well as physical ones. Your doctor is trained to help and not judge and can recommend a therapist who specializes in men’s issues.
What Does Sexual Health Look Like for Men?
Proper sexual health for men means avoiding prostate issues and erectile dysfunction and having a safe, satisfying sex life, whether it’s with a partner or solo. Like all people, men who are having sex (outside of a monogamous relationship where both partners have been tested) are at risk for sexually transmitted infections. Using condoms and getting tested regularly are the easiest ways to prevent STIs. If you aren’t having sex with other people, then masturbation releases endorphins, which can lead to feelings of relaxation and well-being.
Erectile dysfunction is very common for most men over 75 but can happen to anyone at an earlier age. Testosterone levels begin decreasing for men in their late 30’s, which can lead to ED. It can also be a symptom of other issues rather than a condition itself. High and low blood pressure, diabetes, low testosterone, and depression and anxiety can lead to ED (and ED can, of course, lead to depression and anxiety). But there is hope! There are a multitude of products out that can help you improve conditions. See more on that below.
Prostate issues are also common and unique to people assigned male at birth. Common prostate problems include prostate cancer, prostatitis, and benign prostatic hyperplasia. Your “p-zone” is responsible for creating seminal fluid (a component of semen), hormone production, and also regulating urine flow. If your prostate is swollen, then it might be painful when you urinate or ejaculate. You may experience difficulty in maintaining a steady stream of urine or have excessive urination at night. Talk to your doctor about solutions if you’re experiencing these symptoms.
Prostate Play for Your Health
Incorporating some prostate play in the bedroom is a pleasurable way to stimulate your prostate glands and maintain quality sexual health. The prostate is surrounded by sensitive nerve endings and other vital organs like the bladder and the anus. Milking the prostate by massaging the area several times a week can help ease pressure and swelling by releasing fluids that build up there and give you some relief if you’re experiencing pain. Your doctor might even do a prostate massage during a prostate exam. In addition to keeping your prostate healthy, prostate massage can also feel amazing. Many men report that “p-spot orgasms” are the most powerful kind! Give yourself a prostate massage using your fingers or a cool toy while you masturbate, or incorporate it into your routine with a partner.
Erectile Dysfunction Support
ED is really a symptom and not a condition, so it’s very treatable through prescriptions, medical procedures, and supplements. If you’re experiencing difficulty getting or keeping it up, then you can improve your ED symptoms effectively by looking for products that include these ingredients:
- Vitamin D is linked to cardiovascular health; a deficiency may worsen ED symptoms.
- Red ginseng, also known as Panax ginseng, may relax smooth muscles in the penis and help support healthy erections.
- L-arginine is naturally occuring and increases nitric oxide production and helps stimulate erections.
- Niacin stimulates blood flow and may increase sensitivity.
- Tribulus Terrestris is used in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine as an aphrodisiac and is now used to treat ED symptoms.
- Yohimbe may increase blood flow to the penis.
These supplements may support ED, but more research is needed. Consult with your doctor before taking any.
The Kangaroo pill gives you stronger, fuller erections. There are also drinkable potions you can take an hour or two before you’ll be well on your way to pound-town. You can also take daily supplements to improve your overall stamina. Ejacumax is a supplement that isn’t necessarily for ED, but it will make you cum more, resulting in longer, more satisfying loads & orgasms.
Several toys and devices are also available to help you achieve sturdy erections and even prolong ejaculation. Cock rings apply pressure to the area around your penis, causing the blood vessels to tighten and slow the flow of blood away from your member, keeping you erect for longer. These are great for people who can get an erection but need help maintaining it. They come in all shapes and sizes, and some are even edible or vibrate for penile and clitoral stimulation, resulting in more pleasure for you and your partner. These rings may not be a suitable option for everyone, especially people taking blood-thinning medications or those with blood-clotting disorders. Talk to your doctor before use.
Cock-slings are a full-on cover for your rig to help you achieve more powerful orgasms. The device is squishy and stretchy for added comfort while you stretch your balls and support your erection. The sling looks really cool and adds a bit of magic to your experience. These are designed to make sex more pleasurable if you or your partner have difficulty staying hard during penetrative sex. They can also add vibration or texture or anything else to add pleasure.
Penis pumps can be used alone or alongside your cock ring or sling to help maintain your erection. They are used to help draw blood into your penis via air suction. They’re not a cure for ED, but they will increase your chances of having stronger erections and are often used by people without ED simply because pumps can add the aesthetic of a very lengthy, girthy, veiny penis. Many also enjoy the sucking sensation of a pump and use them for masturbation. Make sure your pump has a quick-release feature and is made out of body-safe materials. There are many options for pump play; some use air, others use water and air, some are manual, and some are electric.
Have you ever heard the term “use it or lose it?” Frequent masturbation can increase feelings of well-being, increase your stamina, work out your pelvic muscles that control your urine and ejaculation streams, boost your immunity, and help you last longer during partner sex. Many men aren’t aware that there are plenty of toys on the market simply to enhance their pleasure. Strokers, also known as pocket pussies, are a novel alternative to using your hand. Some strokers have suction, which feels as close to oral sex as you can get on your own, and many vibrate as well. These neat devices can also help you train your stamina as well, with different options for textural patterns and several different massaging sequences. Some devices can decrease your sensitivity down there the more you use them, so if you have trouble lasting longer, this might be the device for you. Practice makes perfect!
If you are concerned about your sexual, physical, or mental health, then your doctor can help you decide if one of these products would be right for you or recommend alternative treatments. Erasing the shame includes shame around sexual issues, not only sexual expression. It is very common to experience these types of issues, so remember you are not alone, and the sooner you discuss them, the sooner you can begin preventing and treating them so you can live your best love life.
