A third of men grappling with sexual dysfunction have resorted to purchasing treatments online through the dark web.
A survey involving 8,000 adults revealed that one in four men have encountered issues such as erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation or a decrease in libido.
However, one in five men would prefer to terminate their relationship rather than discuss their sexual dysfunction. Alarmingly, nearly a third of men confessed to sourcing treatments from the internet or dark web to evade embarrassment or judgement.
The study disclosed that among those who have faced a sexual problem, 14% experienced premature ejaculation, 29% reported a loss of libido and 13% suffered from erectile dysfunction.
This has resulted in many feeling anxious, frustrated and embarrassed. It has also left one in five feeling guilty and 15% admitted it has sparked arguments with their partner.
It’s no surprise then that men are inclined to avoid discussing their problems altogether.
The study indicated that younger men aged between 25 and 34 were most likely to end a relationship rather than confide in their partner about their issues.
Mesha Moinirad, an advocator for chronic illness, who is working with Bupa, which commissioned the research said: “Speaking about sexual dysfunction is hugely embarrassing and there is a real stigma attached to erection problems for men.
“As someone who lives with Crohn’s disease and has a stoma bag, I’m well versed on embarrassing topics, but in my early 20s I experienced issues with my sexual function, and it left me feeling incredibly isolated and depressed.”
He expressed: “I couldn’t think about work or focus on relationships, and I was worried it was going to impact my fertility which left me feeling even more low. Eventually, I spoke to a healthcare professional and it gave me my life back.”
“I can’t stress the importance of seeking help and talking about what you’re experiencing, don’t keep it to yourself as it will only make things worse.”
Almost four in 10 attribute their sexual dysfunctions to poor mental health and stress.
Others believe it is influenced by health conditions (29%), body image issues (27%), an unhealthy diet (21%) and even having children (17%).
Dr James Stevenson, lead practitioner at Bupa Health Clinics, commented: “It is not surprising that men’s sexual dysfunction is currently a silent crisis.”
“Outdated perceptions on how men must act has led to them being reluctant to speak out when they experience issues with their health, especially surrounding their sexual function.”
“As a result, it is having an impact on not only their physical health but their mental health too. We must do more to encourage men to talk to others about what they’re going through and seek help when they need it.”