Symptom-oriented therapy often includes the patient's sexual partner. Also, no data show the long-term success of this kind of therapy. The drawback of this treatment is that it requires prolonged, intense therapy. If the patient's erectile problems are associated with an emotional response that no longer applies to him, he can learn to create a new image of himself that will break through certain emotional barriers and cure his erectile problems. Individual psychoanalytic therapy is based on the theory that sexual dysfunction represents an underlying subconscious conflict. Three types of psychotherapy are commonly used to treat sexual dysfunction. Because emotional factors are ultimately involved in almost all cases of ED, many doctors believe that some form of psychosexual counseling should be part of the treatment for many patients suffering from ED. In fact, even if your doctor finds a physical cause for your ED, he or she may recommend counseling to help relieve anxiety and remove unrealistic expectations associated with medical or surgical therapy. If your doctor finds that your ED has a psychological cause, you may be referred to a psychiatrist, psychologist, or sex therapist for treatment.

That's because frequent, extended periods of bicycling can cause repeated minor trauma to blood vessels or nerves to the penis. If your hobby is long-distance bicycle riding, your doctor may suggest you find a new hobby, or change your bicycle seat. Consider reducing your alcohol intake to the equivalent of 1 glass of wine a day, which can actually reduce the chances of developing these problems. Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol (hard liquor or more than a bottle of wine a day) niay increase hormone production that suppresses your sexual function or damages nerves in the penis. Cognitive-behavioral therapy also includes the patient's sexual partner. This therapy primarily involves explaining the cause of the dysfunction, providing sexual information, and offering reassurance, encouragement, and advice.