The oral medications known as PDE5 inhibitors - like Viagra® and the likes - may restore a man's sexual function but don't necessarily restore a man's sexual health.

According to Dr. Hayley Matic of Deakin University's School of Psychology:

"As well as the obvious physiological aspects, men with erectile dysfunction (ED) suffer a range of problems such as significantly poorer self esteem, sense of masculinity, sexual satisfaction and relationship satisfaction. This study found that overall well being was not improved in the men who had used medical interventions for their ED."

Of course, there is more to a man's erectile dysfunction than the physiological. Stress and poor self-esteem usually tops the list and Dr. Matic believes that the focus on the medical and biological elements of ED has led to a relative dismissal of the role of psychological and relationship aspects of men's sexual experiences. Therefore he is suggesting improvements on the following aspects in the management of erectile dysfunction:

• Ensuring that those prescribing ED medications are able to talk to their patients about their expectations for the use of the drugs
• Increased development of and referral to non-medical treatments for ED, either in conjunction with medication treatment or as a stand-alone
• Increased inclusion of a man's partner in the assessment and treatment for ED in both medical and other settings

Find more details from the full report.