Exercise has been found to be almost as effective as Viagra in treating erectile dysfunction (ED), according to a new meta-study. The study, which analyzed 11 randomized, controlled studies, found that regular exercise can lead to improvements in ED, especially for those with severe cases.
ED is commonly measured using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-EF) scale. The study found that exercise led to improvements of 2.3, 3.3, and 4.9 points on the IIEF-EF scale for mild, moderate, and severe cases of ED, respectively.
The study also highlighted the close relationship between ED and cardiovascular health. Urologist Dr. Mehran Movassaghi explained that ED is a precursor to potential cardiovascular decline, and advised individuals experiencing erectile issues to prioritize getting their lipid panel checked. He added that the same disease that causes strokes and heart attacks can also affect the vasculature of the penis.
Dr. Movassaghi further emphasized the importance of exercise for ED treatment. He noted that exercise not only benefits ED, but also improves cardiovascular health overall. He added that risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, are also risk factors for ED.
The study’s findings are significant because they provide Level I evidence from a meta-analysis of randomized trials supporting the efficacy of aerobic exercise in improving erectile function. Dr. Larry E. Miller, the corresponding author of the study, stated that exercise should be considered a first-line intervention for ED due to its low risk, affordability, and availability to those who cannot take PDE5 medications.
In addition to aerobic exercise, the study also found that exercises targeting the pelvic floor, such as Kegels, can improve sexual stamina and muscle control. The authors of the study believe that exercise can not only address ED, but also improve overall sexual performance, including libido and self-confidence.
Overall, the study provides strong evidence for the benefits of exercise in the treatment of ED, highlighting its effectiveness as a safe, cost-effective, and accessible alternative to medication.