Erectile Dysfunction

Sexual performance anxiety is a common problem that affects both men and women. It creates a fear surrounding sex, leading people to believe that they won’t be able to perform or enjoy the experience. This anxiety, in turn, can cause performance issues.

When consented to and in a comfortable environment, sex should be something that relieves tension and builds a connection. However, sexual performance anxiety results in many people avoiding the encounter altogether. This guide will take you through the basics of sexual performance anxiety, including how to cope with the anxiety and enjoy your sex life.

What Is Sexual Performance Anxiety?

Anxiety is a psychological condition where someone feels intense nervousness or panic that something will go wrong – sexual performance anxiety is related to this, and it can affect both men and women. It’s a fear that the person won’t be able to perform as well sexually or be able to enjoy sex, which can make them unable to enjoy sex at all.

What Causes Sexual Performance Anxiety?

This type of anxiety can be caused by a number of issues. One of the most common causes of anxiety during sex is the fear of not being able to orgasm, or for men, maintain an erection.

Erectile Dysfunction: For men, erectile dysfunction (difficulty getting or maintaining an erection hard enough for sexual performance), can be a trigger of anxiety. If this is something that causes a problem for you during sex, you can speak to your GP about erectile dysfunction treatment.

Premature Ejaculation: Similarly, premature ejaculation can be a cause of anxiety for men – it occurs when you ejaculate quickly, with little to no stimulation. There are different options for premature ejaculation treatment that can help with this.

Stress: Stress is an important consideration that can lead to sexual performance problems, whether it’s work-related, family problems or financial issues. They can affect your ability to focus on and enjoy sex, which can cause anxiety in future occasions.

Low Confidence: Confidence is also a trigger for some people, whether it’s body image issues, low self-esteem, fear of rejection or past negative experiences.

How Can Sexual Performance Anxiety Be Treated?

If you’re struggling with anxiety, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. And, good news, it can be treated in several ways!

Talk About Your Concerns

When it comes to anxiety, communication is key. Talking about your troubles with someone you trust may help to find the root of the problem. You may find that confiding in your partner can help them reassure you of your worries and help you feel more supported rather than alone.

Therapy

Therapy can also be a highly effective treatment for general anxiety and sexual performance issues. Therapy gives patients the chance to talk about their problems with a trained professional who can help them find solutions and resolve underlying issues. Often, having an unbiased perspective on your issues or worries may shed new light on them.

Medication

If the cause of your anxiety is due to another issue, such as erectile dysfunction, then medication can help you. Speak to your doctor about options available to you. Pelvic floor exercises can also help reduce erectile dysfunction problems in men and can help women experience stronger orgasms.

Improving Your Wellbeing

If body image or low confidence is at the root of your anxiety, finding ways to improve your wellbeing might help. Whether exercising regularly or practising meditation, there are many things that you can do to improve your body and mind.

You’re Not Alone

Sexual performance anxiety can make something that should be fun and exciting feel difficult and upsetting. But there are ways to overcome anxiety when it comes to sex and, with time, you will find that it’s possible to enjoy sex again.

Above all, be kind to yourself and set realistic expectations – it can take time to deal with anxiety so take things slow and remember that not everyone experiences sex in the same way that you do, but that’s not something to be ashamed of. Talking about your worries and stressors, as well as trying different treatments, can help you to find the underlying problems and find solutions that work well for you and your circumstances.

We all know alcohol plays a huge role in our behaviour, but what does this mean for the more intimate moments? In this blog post, we are going to look at how alcohol can impact your sex life --- both the good and the ugly.

Positive effects of alcohol

Let’s start with the good stuff:

1. Alcohol increases your sex drive

Alcohol doesn’t increase your libido. What it does is lower your inhibitions --- making you more open to sexual adventures. Alcohol eases your anxiety and helps you move on from past issues that are stopping you from being sexual. A common example of these issues includes:

• Concerns about how you look
• Worries about reaching the climax
• Worries about not satisfying your partner

All these can be fixed with a glass of vodka, rum, or wine. A small amount of alcohol can also make erotic talks sexier and more spontaneous. And lastly, the lack of anxiety will help improve a man’s staying power in bed.

2. Alcohol helps you enjoy the moment

Alcohol slows down brain activity --- temporarily freeing you from tension and worries. Believe it or not, one of the main reasons why couples don’t have sex often is stress. With alcohol, these worries tend to disappear.

3. Alcohol makes your partner more attractive

Several clinical studies show that people tend to rate their partners as more attractive after drinking alcohol. The attraction is not just physical. It’s influenced by a lot of factors including:

• The physical appearance of your partner
• How well you get along with each other
• Your state of mind

4. Alcohol increases your sense of attachment to your partner

Your emotions are governed by your brain’s prefrontal cortex. And alcohol has a massive effect in this area. So, don’t be surprised if after a few glasses you become more talkative and more open about your feelings. Alcohol draws you closer to someone --- making your sexual encounters more intimate and powerful.

Negative effects of alcohol

There’s a catch. You can only consume so much alcohol before its benefits become your downfall. Below are some of the negative impacts of alcohol in your sex life:

1. Alcohol puts your health at risk

For starters, most medications have a contraindication for alcohol, making you more susceptible to developing side effects. There are also several studies linking excessive alcohol consumption to certain cancers, particularly in the liver. Lastly, alcohol is an addictive substance, meaning you could be just a glass away from taking it too far.

2. Too much alcohol may lead to poor sexual performance

For men, too much alcohol can cause erectile dysfunction. This happens because alcohol can interfere with the messengers in the brain that “tells” your penis to become erect. Alcohol lowers testosterone too which is vital in keeping your sexual functions healthy. Luckily, with help from medication, you can treat erectile dysfunction quickly if it is a persistent problem.

After too much drinking, some men also find it hard to ejaculate while others tend to come too quickly. In women, too much alcohol may affect their ability to reach orgasm. And if they do, these orgasms tend to feel less intense and pleasurable. Alcohol can also dehydrate the vagina, making penetration painful or uncomfortable.

3. Alcohol separates you from reality

Too much alcohol can separate you from reality. So, balance is key. Too much alcohol may rob you of your ability to connect with your partner as well as satisfy his or her emotional and sexual needs.

4. Alcohol may cause fertility problems

There are some alcohol-related issues that paracetamol simply can’t fix. In women, studies show that those who drink more than 14 units of alcohol per week often suffer from fertility and menstrual problems.

5. Too much alcohol puts you at risks of catching sexually transmitted infections

Alcohol lowers your inhibition and increases your chances of engaging in unprotected sex. If you are not with a safe and trusted partner, this will put you at greater risk of catching sexually transmitted diseases (STI's).

Erectile dysfunction (ED) and premature ejaculation (PE) are both issues that can affect a male’s performance during sexual intercourse. But while both conditions cause trouble in the bedroom, they are not the same. This guide will take you through the differences between erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation.

What is erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction is a common health problem affecting about 50% of men in the UK. It’s characterized by a man’s inability to create or sustain an erection that’s firm enough for successful sexual intercourse. Erectile dysfunction can be caused by several physical and psychological factors. Here are some of them:

• Diabetes
• Obesity
• High cholesterol
• High blood pressure
• Enlarged prostate
• Age
• Sleep problems
• Kidney disease
• Damage or injury to the pelvic area
• Depression
• Confused sexual orientation
• Issues with your sex partner

Not sure if you have an ED? Take a look at this informative guide: how to know if you have ED.

How to treat erectile dysfunction

Treating erectile dysfunction begins with taking good care of your cardiovascular health. Your GP may recommend that you:

• Stop smoking
• Change certain food habits
• Stop drinking
• Abstain from drugs
• Workout regularly

For psychological and emotional causes of ED, your doctor may encourage some counselling or sexual therapy. For those with ED who are looking for a quick solution, you can take comfort in knowing that there are plenty of erectile dysfunction treatments available at Express Pharmacy. Choose between Viagra, Sildenafil, Cialis, Spedra, and more!

What is premature ejaculation?

Premature ejaculation happens when you ejaculate much sooner than you or your partner would like. Studies show that 1 in 3 men experience this problem at some point in their lives. PE is not a concern if it happens occasionally. It only becomes a serious issue when:

• You almost always ejaculate within a minute of penetration
• You cannot delay ejaculation during intercourse all the time.
• You feel frustrated about your performance.
• You avoid sexual intimacy because of lack of confidence and your inability to please or satisfy your partner.

Premature ejaculation is caused by various biological and psychological factors such as:

• Performance anxiety
• Relationship issues with your partner
• Drug use
• Alcohol abuse
• General stress or depression
• Erectile dysfunction

Depending on your symptoms, PE can be classified as either lifelong (primary PE) or acquired (secondary PE). Lifelong premature ejaculation is diagnosed when you’ve suffered from PE your whole life. On the other hand, acquired premature ejaculation is a PE problem that has developed later in your life despite not having ejaculation issues in the past.

While no one can guarantee how long sex should last, studies into the conditions have set certain guidelines which allow us to establish two main symptoms of premature ejaculation. These include:

• Reaching the point of ejaculation within two minutes (120 seconds) or less of becoming aroused
• Experiencing the above problem on a regular basis

How to treat premature ejaculation

To treat your PE problem, you must first know the cause. Premature ejaculation caused by lifestyle choices, such as drug and tobacco abuse, can be fixed by staying away from these addictive substances.

You can also treat PE using prescription premature ejaculation treatment available at Express Pharmacy. Choose between EMLA, a topical anaesthetic used to numb the skin to reduce its sensitivity and alleviate premature ejaculation issues, and Priligy which is the only approved premature ejaculation treatment in the UK.

Can erectile dysfunction cause premature ejaculation?

When it comes to erectile dysfunction, you can’t maintain an erection, meaning you are less likely to suffer from premature ejaculation as you can’t ejaculate in the first place. So, in this case, no --- erectile dysfunction cannot cause premature ejaculation.

However, if you have a case of ED where you can create an erection but struggle to sustain it, there’s a big chance that you may experience premature ejaculation. How? What most men do if they find it hard to maintain an erection is to focus on their sexual excitement. While effective, this high level of excitement can make you ejaculate sooner than you or your partner would like.

It’s a vicious cycle. Focus too much on your sexual excitement and you might ejaculate quickly. Reduce your focus and you might end up losing your erection. And while you are caught in the middle of this dilemma, you suffer from performance anxiety which can make both ED and PE even worse.

There are many factors that may encourage the onset of erectile dysfunction - obesity is one of them. But will losing weight cure erectile dysfunction? Read on to find out more.

What is erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction - or ED - is a common illness that affects about 50% of men in the UK at some point in their lives. ED or impotence refers to a man’s inability to get or maintain an erection firm enough for sex. It’s normal to get erection problems from time to time. But it’s a different story if it is an on-going issue. Prolonged ED can cause:

• Relationship problems
• Stress and anxiety
• Unsatisfactory sex life
• Damage to your self-esteem
• Inability to get your partner pregnant

Obesity and ED

One of the main causes of ED is obesity. According to experts, obesity can cause erectile dysfunction by damaging your blood vessels, decreasing testosterone, and causing a general state of inflammation throughout your body. Let’s take a deeper dive below:

Your vascular health

If you are overweight, you are more at risk of developing heart disease. How does this relate to erectile dysfunction? Simple. Remember that an erection happens because of increased blood flow to the penis. And when you are having sex, it’s important to keep that “extra” blood in there to maintain the erection.

Clogs in the arteries that supply blood to your penis will affect your ability to create and maintain an erection.

Your testosterone levels

Testosterone is a hormone that helps boost your sex drive. Several studies link obesity to low levels of testosterone in men. A 4-inches increase in waist size may lower your testosterone levels by up to 75%.

“Another common risk factor for E.D. is low levels of testosterone, which is also linked to obesity. Appropriate levels of this hormone are necessary to achieve erections and maintain a healthy sex drive. When the patient has a large amount of belly fat, there is a greater effect on the testosterone levels. In males, abdominal fat will convert testosterone to estrogen interfering with proper hormonal balance. Testosterone levels may not be affected quickly and directly by weight-loss, so there may be a need for additional testosterone to be prescribed in the form of a gel, injections, or patches.” - Dr Robert A Kloner, MD.

Losing weight can help cure erectile dysfunction

It’s important to know that erectile dysfunction is not just caused by obesity. The causes of erectile dysfunction can also include:

• Injury or physical issues
• Certain drugs or medications
• Treatments for prostate cancer
• Hormonal imbalance
• Lifestyle choices like alcohol and tobacco addiction
• Emotional causes like fatigue, relationship problems, stress

Obesity increases your risks of developing diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol, and atherosclerosis --- all of which are the main causative agents of erectile dysfunction. If you are suffering from these and you are overweight, there’s a big chance that your ED condition will get exacerbated.

Keeping your weight at a healthy level greatly reduces your risks of developing ED. This in turn will also decrease your chances of developing long-term erectile dysfunction.

According to a study published in Healthline, losing weight is one of the best ways to cure erectile dysfunction. In this study, more than 30% of men who lost an average of 15kg over two years have regained normal sexual function.

One of the best ways to prevent erectile dysfunction is by following the eat-less-move-more approach. However, if you need quick relief, consider erectile dysfunction treatments from Express Pharmacy.

Did you know that erectile dysfunction affects as many as 30 million men worldwide? With so many men facing such a personal issue, it's no surprise that thousands of people each day attempt to find a cure. Within this guide, we will take you through the fastest and safest ways to cure erectile dysfunction.

What is erectile dysfunction?

When a man is sexually aroused, the brain releases chemicals that increase the blood flow into the penis. The penis has two erection chambers called corpus cavernosum — these spongy muscle tissues fill with blood and relax during arousal — trapping the blood inside. This causes the penis to become firm and erect.

After orgasm, the brain sends another set of signals telling the muscles in the chambers to contract, releasing the blood back into circulation. This causes the erection to come down.

Erectile dysfunction - commonly known as impotence - is a condition where a man has difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection which is firm enough for successful sexual intercourse.

Erectile dysfunction is caused by several physical, emotional, and health factors. For example, men who are overweight, have diabetes, or have high blood pressure may experience ED regardless of age. Emotional causes of erectile dysfunction include anxiety, depression, stress, and conflicts with your sexual partner.

7 Fast and Safe Ways to Cure ED

There are many erectile dysfunction medications available that can help you overcome erectile dysfunction safely and quickly. These are all available right here at Express Pharmacy and can be delivered to your doorstep discreetly.

Viagra

Since it was introduced in the market by Pfizer in 1998, Viagra has grown to become the world’s most popular treatment for erectile dysfunction. The active ingredient in Viagra is Sildenafil citrate — a drug that causes blood vessels in the body (particularly in the penis) to widen. This allows more blood to pass through the penis’ erection chambers.

Viagra is used by men of all ages. This treatment works even with severe cases of ED. Men who have undergone prostatectomy may also use this product. With proper use and stimulation, Viagra can make you ready for sex within an hour.

Sildenafil

Sildenafil is the generic counterpart of Viagra. Once again, this ED treatment contains sildenafil citrate that helps men gain an erection with proper sexual stimulation. Sildenafil works by helping the blood vessels in the penis relax — allowing more blood to flow inside the two chambers of the penis so you can achieve a hard erection.

Sildenafil is prescribed to men of all ages and is designed to work even on severe erectile dysfunction cases. Sildenafil is also cheaper compared to its branded counterparts.

Cialis

Another safe and fast treatment for erectile dysfunction is Cialis. This drug contains the active ingredient Tadalafil which works by allowing more blood to flow into the penis erection chambers.

Cialis can be taken as needed. It’s fast-acting too! Compared to Viagra, Cialis can prepare you for sex in as little as 30 minutes. Effectiveness of Cialis can last up to 36 hours. Men of all ages can use Cialis safely — even those who have health problems like controlled high blood pressure, or diabetes.

Tadalafil

Tadalafil is the generic version of Cialis. Available in an “as needed” formulation, Tadalafil offers men suffering from impotence a fast and safe way to enjoy sex once again. This ED treatment works in as little as 30 minutes and its effects can last up to 36 hours.

Tadalafil is prescribed to men of all ages. No matter how severe your ED is, Tadalafil has you covered. Perfect for men with health problems such as controlled high blood pressure or diabetes.

Spedra

If you are looking for an ED treatment that gets you ready for action in just 15 minutes, Spedra is the answer. This drug contains Avanafil which works by widening the arteries in the body so more blood can flow into the penis. Because the body can absorb Spedra quicker than Viagra, it works earlier and faster too.

Spedra is suitable for all ages, regardless of the severity of your ED.

Levitra

Levitra is a fast-acting and reliable treatment for erectile dysfunction. Like all of the ED treatments above, Levitra works by blocking a certain enzyme, allowing increased blood flow into the penis erection chambers.

Levitra allows you to achieve erection quicker (less than 60 minutes) than Viagra. It lasts longer too (about 12 hours). This product is prescribed to all men regardless of age and ED condition.

Vitaros

Vitaros is not a tablet but a prescription-only ED cream that helps you get an erection fast. It contains the active ingredient Alprostadil which works by allowing the blood vessels in the penis to widen — encouraging more blood to flow and fill the erection chambers.

Vitaros gives men who don’t want to take pills an alternative ED treatment. It works in as little as 5 minutes and allows you to maintain a solid erection for up to 2 hours.

The majority of us have heard of the little blue pill named Viagra - but how many of us actually know how it works? This guide will take you through everything you need to know about using Viagra - an ideal starting point for those who are looking to purchase or use it.

What Is Viagra?

Viagra is a pill used to treat erectile dysfunction - also known as impotence. Viagra helps the muscles in your blood vessels to relax, increasing blood flow to the penis. It is this increased blood flow which then allows you to get, and maintain, an erection during sexual intercourse.

How Effective Is Viagra?

Viagra has a pretty high success rate, treating around 70% of erectile dysfunction cases. There are, however, some factors which may lower its effectiveness.

If you eat a large meal or consume high amounts of alcohol before taking Viagra, it may not be as effective as you hope.

In the unlikely event that Viagra has failed to work over 5 times, get in touch with your GP or seek an alternative treatment (which we will discuss later in this guide!).

How To Take Viagra

Viagra doesn’t have a ‘course’, meaning it only needs to be taken when needed.

Usually, it is recommended to take Viagra around 30 minutes before any form of sexual activity. If 30 minutes isn’t ideal, then you’re in luck, as it can remain effective for up to 4 hours.

You’ll be able to get an erection once you’ve taken Viagra - but only after sexual stimulation. There’s a common misconception that you’ll get an erection purely from the pill, but this is not the case.

How Long Does Viagra Take To Work?

It takes Viagra anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour to work.

What To Avoid When Taking Viagra

As mentioned earlier, eating or drinking too much before taking Viagra may decrease its effectiveness. Fatty foods, in particular, should be avoided in the lead up to taking Viagra.

It has also been found that grapefruit may interact with Viagra, bringing on some unappealing side effects. Even grapefruit juice should be avoided in this instance.

Side Effects of Viagra

In the majority of cases, Viagra doesn’t cause any side effects. However, like most medications, it has been known to trigger a few problems. Common side effects of Viagra include:

• Dizziness
• Nausea
• An upset stomach
• Muscle pain
• Flushing

While these are known as ‘common’ side effects, they’re still not pleasant. If any of these side effects persist, then it’s wise to stop taking Viagra and to seek an alternative treatment.

If the common side effects were bad enough, take a look at these more severe side effects (which require a trip to the doctors right away):

• An irregular heartbeat
• Swelling in your hands or feet
• Shortness of breath
• Feeling incredibly faint
• Hearing loss

Where Can You Buy Viagra?

It is possible to buy Viagra over the counter, but many men feel more comfortable purchasing it discreetly. This can be done safely through us here at Express Pharmacy, where you can buy Viagra at the click of a button and get it sent straight to your door in unbranded packaging.

Alternative Treatments To Viagra

Some men wish to seek alternative treatments to Viagra, whether it be due to ineffectiveness, the cost, or other personal reasons. Either way, there are many alternatives to Viagra - from therapy to different pills. You can view all of our ED treatments for more information.

Erectile dysfunction affects many men each year, yet many cases are going untreated due to the feeling of shame or embarrassment. But while some men don’t wish to speak up about their impotence, the sooner it is treated, the sooner it won’t cause strain on sexual performance or confidence.

It is believed that around 5% of men over 40 have a long-term struggle with erectile dysfunction. Understanding the causes of erectile dysfunction can help to manage it and win back control.

What Is Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction, also known as impotence, is a condition which stops men from achieving or maintaining an erection. It is not to be confused with premature ejaculation, which occurs when a man ejaculates after minimal stimulation.

4 Common Causes of Erectile Dysfunction

So - how do you know if you have erectile dysfunction? While some men may experience the occasional symptom due to factors like stress and tiredness, the following causes are the most common amongst those who suffer long-term.

1. Problems With Blood Pressure

When it comes to long-term erectile dysfunction, the most common causes tend to be related to blood pressure and blood circulation.

When a man usually gets ‘hard’, the penis allows more blood to flow, which is then trapped within the corpora cavernosa. This causes the penis to remain erect.

If a man has problems with blood pressure or circulation, however, the penis may struggle to maintain this pressure. Common conditions include high blood pressure, heart disease and high cholesterol.

2. Medication

There are many medications which can affect blood flow, once again resulting in erectile dysfunction. This includes:

• Central nervous system depressants (Xanax, Diazepam, Codeine)
• Cancer chemotherapy medications
• Beta-blockers
• SSRIs (Prozac, Paxil)

The above medications are just a handful which can cause erectile dysfunction. Speak to your doctor if you would like to know more. Never stop taking a course of medication without consulting your doctor first.

3. Mental Disorders

As mentioned earlier, problems with stress and tiredness can cause occasional erectile dysfunction symptoms. There are more complex emotional disorders, however, that may result in a long-term condition.

Near enough any mental disorder which relates to some form of performance anxiety has the ability to cause erectile dysfunction. If this is the case, therapy is deemed as an effective treatment.

Problems with anxiety and depression have been known to cause erectile dysfunction, due to fatigue and an overwhelming feeling of sadness. It is important to put your mental health first in this situation and speak to a specialist about coping with these feelings.

4. Neurological Disorders

Neurological and nerve disorders may also cause erectile dysfunction. This is usually due to the fact that the brain struggles to communicate with the rest of the body. Common neurological disorders that can cause erectile dysfunction include:

• Parkinson’s disease
• Brain tumours
• Spinal tumours
• Alzheimer’s

Once again, it’s important to speak to your doctor for guidance regarding these serious conditions and their link to erectile dysfunction.

Treating Erectile Dysfunction

You can buy ED treatment right here at Express Pharmacy. From Sildenafil to Viagra, Spedra to Cialis, we have many different types of treatment available depending on your requirements.

If you believe you are struggling with long-term erectile dysfunction due to any of the causes mentioned in this guide, please speak to your GP for further guidance or get in touch with us on 0208 123 0703.

Erectile dysfunction is a common condition affecting around half of the male population in the UK. It is characterised by a difficulty in achieving an erection that’s firm enough for sexual intercourse.

Those who are over 70 years old are more likely to experience erectile dysfunction due to physical (e.g. age, health, obesity, etc.), mental (e.g. depression, anxiety, etc.), and social (e.g. relationship issues) factors. Erectile dysfunction treatments include sexual therapy, aphrodisiacs, and prescription treatments like Viagra.

What is Viagra?

Viagra is an erectile dysfunction treatment developed in the UK and sold by Pfizer. Viagra contains sildenafil citrate, an ingredient that causes muscles surrounding blood vessels to relax. This increases blood flow to the penis so you can get an erection that’s firm enough for sexual intercourse.

Viagra requires sexual stimulation to work. It can last up to three hours and is considered completely safe by doctors.

Below are four interesting facts that you probably didn’t know about Viagra.

4 Interesting Facts about Viagra

Fact #1: Viagra Makes Flowers Erect

Believe it or not, Viagra can make flowers erect too!

Flowers have a very short shelf life once they're cut. But - selling flowers is big business. So, companies around the world look for ways to make flowers last longer.

As luck would have it, a team of Australian and Israeli researchers discovered that 1 mg of Viagra dissolved in a vase of water could extend the shelf life of flowers by up to two weeks. How? Viagra inhibits the breakdown of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) that causes flowers to wither.

Fact 2: 80% of the Viagra You See Online is NOT Real

Not just Viagra but erectile dysfunction pills, in general, are considered to be one of the most counterfeited drugs in the world. This is a serious issue because it’s impossible to know what’s inside a fake Viagra pill and what side effects it could cause.

If they all look the same, how can I tell which is fake and which is isn’t?

• Tablet shape – real Viagra has a distinct diamond shape. The edges should be smooth. Counterfeit Viagra usually has jagged or indented edges.
• Colour consistency – the colour of real Viagra is uniform. Fake erectile dysfunction pills have colour variations in the same tablet or within tablets from the same packet. For example, the colour on one side may not be exactly the same as the other side.
• The number of tablets in a pack – legitimate Viagra comes in packs of 4 or singles. If the one you bought has more than four tablets in a pack, it's most likely fake.
• The “f” in Pfizer – the letter “f” in Pfizer is very hard to replicate. Look at the letter “f” in Pfizer when checking out the Viagra tablet. If real, you’ll notice that the “f” doesn’t thin out until the top.

Remember that you don’t need a prescription to buy Viagra in the UK (another interesting fact). You can buy Viagra online through Express Pharmacy and have a discreet package delivered to your door quickly.

Fact #3: Buying Viagra Can Help Save Endangered Species

Countless numbers of wild animals (tigers, seals, reindeers, rhinoceros, etc.) have been killed for their organs, meat, or genitals which are believed to cure erectile dysfunction - despite no scientific evidence. You have traditional Chinese medicine to thank for that!

Since Viagra entered the market, the demand for tiger bones, seal penises, rhino horn, and reindeer antlers have dropped significantly - even among the Chinese. And that’s great news!

Fact #4: Viagra Can Cure Jetlag

Seriously, it can, and it did - at least for a hamster who probably took a trans-Atlantic flight. In 2007, a group of Argentinian researchers discovered that Viagra could reset a hamster's circadian (sleep-wake cycle) faster than any other means. Pretty cool, huh?

Unfortunately, we don't know for sure if Viagra will have the same effect on humans. After all, we are not hamsters, are we?

And just so you know, the hamsters did not board an aeroplane. The jet lag effect was simulated by changing how much light the hamsters were exposed to during the experiment.

Bonus Fact: The CIA Used Viagra Against the Taliban

Like what the great Sun Tzu said, “if you want to win a war, know your enemy.” And it appears that the CIA took the philosopher’s advice to another level.

During the war in Afghanistan, information was valuable. But the usual bribe of money or weapons was too obvious. So, CIA operatives got creative and offered Viagra to local informants.

And it worked!

Most tribal chiefs, who were already too old to have some “fun”, had younger wives. Lots of them! So, a packet of four Viagra pills did wonders - not just on a bed in a distant Afghan village but also to the military who learnt about valuable Taliban movements, bases, and supply routes from this simple gesture.

Order Viagra Online Through Express Pharmacy

Whether you are a hamster, florist, conservationist, or the CIA, you can buy Viagra online through Express Pharmacy. Take confidence in using the world’s best treatment for erectile dysfunction.

While sex doesn’t need to go on for great lengths to be enjoyable, it is completely normal to seek ways to make the pleasure last longer.

Sex is much more than just an orgasm – it’s about connecting with your partner, too. Research has shown that around 45% of men ejaculate within two minutes, and for most heterosexual couples, the average duration of sexual intercourse is 5.4 minutes (without including time for foreplay).

Researchers have determined through numerous studies that for many couples, a desirable sex session would ideally last anywhere from 7 to 13 minutes. So, if you’re craving more intimacy and more of a connection with your partner, there are certain ways you can boost your sex life and extend the length of time you can have sex for.

How To Make Sex Last Longer

It’s a well-known fact that men can reach orgasm more easily and more quickly than women. But the fact that premature ejaculation is one of the most common sexual disorders in men under the age of 40, as well as everyday stresses compromising focus and confidence, couples often find that sex doesn’t last as long as they’d like. Here are some tips on how to make sex last longer:

1. Don't put pressure on yourself

The first thing to remember when trying to make sex last longer is that there’s no pressure. The rom-coms tell us that women are supposed to want hour-long sex sessions, but this tends to be an unrealistic portrayal; sex doesn’t have to feel like a marathon.

Each couple is different and the length of time you’re both happy with may not be the same as it would be for someone else. What each individual wants in bed is very personal and contextualised based on the relationship you have with each other. It’s a good idea to have a conversation with your partner to talk through what it is that each of you wants, including the desired duration. This can take the pressure off trying to reach an unrealistic goal.

2. Practise mindfulness

Mindfulness has been in the media a lot over the last few years, and with good reason.

Mindfulness is about paying attention to the present moment and training your mind to focus on one task at a time. While it’s usually associated with mental health, it’s actually great to remember when improving intimacy.

Mindfulness is great for reducing stress and anxiety, and that in turn can also be beneficial to your sex life, too. Sex and relationship therapists say that practising mindful sex can improve your physical and emotional health by allowing you to fully focus on your bodily sensations which leads to a more rewarding sexual experience.

You don’t just have to practise mindfulness in the bedroom, either. Through being mindful in everyday situations, you’ll naturally become a pro in all other aspects of life. There are numerous apps and guides for meditation that can help you relax and unwind, or you could try mindful eating where you focus on the taste and texture of different foods while avoiding distractions.

The slowed breathing and calmer outlook acquired through mindfulness will help to reduce stress which can also help to slow ejaculation down and provide you with the skills to maintain control and focus on your partner.

3. Try Viagra pills

If you find that different positions and mindfulness don’t improve your sex life to the extent you’d like, you may want to consider exploring prescription pills to prolong ejaculation. You can speak to your GP or buy Viagra online through Express Pharmacy to help make sex last longer.

Viagra was the first medication created to treat erectile dysfunction and it provides men suffering from impotence the ability to maintain an erection for longer. Viagra pills improve your ability to achieve and retain an erection, working for men of any age.

How Does Viagra Work?

Viagra works by widening the blood vessels in the body, allowing for more blood to flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. It contains the active ingredient Sildenafil which is a PDE-5 inhibitor. This stops a specific enzyme from working in the body which is responsible for keeping the blood vessels in the penis constricted. This enables the individual to achieve a harder erection which can be maintained for longer periods of time.

How To Take Viagra

Viagra should be taken around an hour before you plan on having sex. It should be taken orally in tablet form and can be effective for up to four hours after ingesting. This medication can be effective in as little as 30 minutes before intercourse but the speed at which Viagra works depends on several factors. Taking the tablet alongside a heavy or high-fat meal can slow down how quickly the body absorbs the Sildenafil and can delay its efficiency.

The recommended dose of Viagra is one 50mg tablet taken one hour before sexual activity. If you experience side effects from this dosage, you can lower the dose to 25mg on the next occasion or increase the dose to 100mg if 50mg proves to be too weak.

You shouldn’t take Viagra more than once a day as this will impact its effectiveness and could increase the chance of you experiencing negative side effects, such as headaches, dizziness or upset stomach.

Struggling To Perform? Get In Touch Today

Sex is meant to be enjoyed and what makes for the perfect sexual experience varies from couple to couple. But if you’re finding that you’re struggling to perform and want to explore ways to improve your sex life for you and your partner, get in touch with us on 0208 123 0703 for advice.

At some point in their lives, most men will experience some form of erectile dysfunction (ED). Chronic ED impacts around one in 20 men under 40 years old, and 15% of men at 70. Meanwhile, mild to moderate ED can impact as many as 10% of men per decade of life (i.e. 40% of men aged 40, 50% of men aged 50 etc, 60% of men aged 60.)[1]

Smoking is another key health concern in the UK. As many as 14.4% of UK adults are currently classified as smokers.[2] This is significant, as smoking plays a part in many of the most serious medical conditions, including cancer, heart disease, lung disease, osteoporosis, stroke and infertility.[3]

But is there a link between ED and smoking? Could smoking actually be at the root of your ED concerns?

What is erectile dysfunction?

Most men occasionally fail to achieve or maintain an erection during sexual activity, and this usually caused by stress, anxiety, tiredness or drinking too much. In these instances, this is generally nothing to worry about. However, if it happens frequently, it can be a sign of a wider case of ED.[4] Chronic ED can occur as a result of numerous factors, both physical and emotional, such as depression.[5]

The relationship between smoking and erectile dysfunction

Until around 20 years ago, ED was thought to be primarily caused by psychological factors. However, we now know that there are many physical factors at play too, including injury, hormonal conditions, anatomical conditions and surgery, to name a few.[6] One of the most prevalent physical causes of erectile dysfunction is a narrowing of the blood vessels going to the penis.[7]

This is where smoking comes in. Smoking can damage the lining of the blood vessels over time, preventing them from working at their maximum capacity.[8] This means that smoking can potentially have a direct impact on your likelihood of experiencing ED.

Research shows there likely is a connection

There has been a great deal of research into the connection between ED and smoking, and the results revealing that there is a link between the two factors.

One 2008 study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found strong parallels between smoking and ED — concluding that long-term smoking can detrimentally impact blood flow and blood vessels to the point where ED becomes more likely to occur.[9]

Furthermore, a study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found that ED was more likely to occur in men who smoked compared to those who never did.[10] Meanwhile another study, carried out in 2004, found the severity of ED corresponded significantly with the level of exposure to smoking.[11]

So what does this research tell us? It suggests that, if you’re a smoker suffering from ED, quitting smoking could reduce your symptoms. Thankfully, there is tried and tested medication which can help you achieve this.

Whether you’re looking for smoking cessation medication like Champix or erectile dysfunction treatment, Express Pharmacy has a range of safe and effective options available. Get in touch with our pharmacists today and get the support you need. Simply call 0208 123 07 03 or use our discreet online Live Chat service.

[1] UW Health. Erectile Dysfunction (ED). School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison. 2019

[2] NHS UK. Statistics on Smoking, England. 2019

[3] Smokefree by NHS. How smoking affects your body. 2018

[4] NHS UK. Erectile dysfunction (importence). 2017

[5] National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Symptoms & Causes of Erectile Dysfunction. 2017

[6] Sexual Advice Association. Erectile Dysfunction. 2016

[7] NHS Inform. Erectile dysfunction (impotence). 2020

[8] National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Smoking and Your Heart.2018

[9] Tostes, RC, PhD. et al. Cigarette Smoking and Erectile Dysfunction: Focus on NO Bioavailability and ROS Generation. The Journal of Sexual Medicine. 2008

[10] Gades, NM. et al. Association between Smoking and Erectile Dysfunction: A Population-based Study, American Journal of Epidemiology. 2005

[11] Pourmand, G. et al. Do cigarette smokers with erectile dysfunction benefit from stopping?: a prospective study. BJU International. 2004

It is perfectly normal for men to struggle with arousal at some point in their lives, but if the problem becomes frequent, it can cause strain on a relationship.

Studies have found that up to 52% of men experience symptoms of erectile dysfunction at some point in their lives, making it a pervasive problem across the globe. But how do you know if you actually have erectile dysfunction, and how is it treated?

What Is Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is diagnosed when a male near enough always has difficulty achieving and/or maintaining an erection. It typically occurs when the blood flow is restricted to the penis.

There are many causes of erectile dysfunction; from stress and tiredness to anxiety and over-drinking. Medical problems can also cause erectile dysfunction, including diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and heart disease.

What Are The Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction?

There are three main erectile dysfunction symptoms to look out for. If any of the below are frequently occurring when in the bedroom, you may be dealing with erectile dysfunction and could benefit from treatment.

1. Being Unable To Get An Erection

The main tell-tale sign of erectile dysfunction is being unable to get an erection when in the bedroom. Although this is perfectly normal from time to time and can be caused by other factors, frequent trouble may suggest an ED problem.

2. Being Unable To Maintain An Erection

There’s a common misconception that erectile dysfunction only means that you can’t get it ‘up’. However, in some instances, erectile dysfunction leaves some men unable to maintain an erection for as long as desired instead.

This symptom is not to be confused with premature ejaculation (although the two problems can overlap). When a man has erectile dysfunction and struggles to maintain an erection, it is unlikely that he will ejaculate.

3. Low Desire To Have Sex

Another symptom of erectile dysfunction is a reduced desire to have sex. Many men find that, if they are struggling with one of the above problems, they have a low sexual desire. However, the above problems aren’t always the cause; some men naturally have low sex drives, meaning getting aroused becomes quite the challenge.

Who is likely to be at risk from erectile dysfunction?

As mentioned previously, over 50% of men will experience erectile dysfunction at some point in their lives. Although it can affect anyone, people who fall into any of the following categories are at a higher risk of suffering from erectile dysfunction:

• Frequent alcohol drinkers
• Men aged over 40
• Those with depression, stress or anxiety
• Overweight men
• Those with a medical condition (eg: high cholesterol, diabetes, heart disease)

With the above categories being fairly broad, it’s clear to see just how many men may have erectile dysfunction.

How do you treat erectile dysfunction?

Luckily, due to being such a global problem, there are many erectile dysfunction treatments available. The most popular treatments include:

Lifestyle Changes

You may have noticed that some of the people at risk of having erectile dysfunction can alleviate the issue with a few lifestyle changes. Reducing alcohol intake, maintaining a good exercise routine, eating healthily and stopping smoking are all lifestyle changes that can reduce the chances of erectile dysfunction occurring.

Therapy

If mental health problems are affecting your sexual performance, seeking help through therapy is a viable option. A therapist will be able to unravel any underlying concerns which might be triggering the mental health problem, and over time, your sexual performance will benefit as a result.

Prescribed Erectile Dysfunction Tablets

Erectile dysfunction tablets are one of the most popular, and quickest, solutions for erectile dysfunction. An oral erectile dysfunction tablet is taken roughly one hour before sex, and once in the system, can last for up to four hours!

The two most popular erectile dysfunction tablets go by the name of Sildenafil and Viagra. Both treatments are extremely similar and effectively enable more blood to flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. Sildenafil tablets and Viagra tablets are both available at Express Pharmacy and can be delivered to you in as little as one working day. It’s never been so easy to discreetly buy Viagra online.

If you have erectile dysfunction and would like to seek help, do not hesitate to contact our pharmaceutical experts on 0208 123 0703. Alternatively, browse our erectile dysfunction treatments today.

Infertility is most often thought of as a curse upon women; but as more studies are done, it is being found that men are struggling too.

One study estimates that nearly 72.4 million couples globally experience fertility problems.” Of these cases, “approximately 40–50% are due to “male factor” infertility and as many as 2% of all men will exhibit suboptimal sperm parameters.

One of the ways men struggle with infertility is caused by excessive heat. But it’s not just the heat of summer that affects men; scientists are starting to look at the myths and fabled wives’ tales surrounding the question of underwear – and whether choosing a specific type of underwear would help men improve their sexual health.

What is the Big Deal?

For a healthy and fertile male, there isn’t an issue. He can wear whichever one he would like. Unfortunately, for those who are struggling with fertility, the debate between boxers or briefs is not just an issue of comfort or support, but it is a specific concern for the health of their sperm.

Oxford Academic published a study looking at 656 men who were complaining of infertility. They found that “overall, more than 50 percent of the men said they usually wore boxers. These men had a 25 percent "higher sperm concentration," a 17 percent higher total sperm count, and 33 percent more swimming sperm than men who said they didn't usually wear boxers.”

Importantly, the greatest statistical difference in sperm quality was found between men who wore boxer shorts and men who wore jockeys or briefs.

In men, sperm are made within the testes. The testes, located within the scrotal sack, are located outside of the body — specifically away from the core heat of the body. Celia E. Dominguez, reproductive endocrinologist, Center for Reproductive Medicine at the Emory University School of Medicine says, “In order for testes to produce sufficient quality and quantity of sperm, the temperature of testes must be lower than the core body temperature.”

Another issue is the sperm’s life cycle. The body is continuously making sperm, and each sperm lives around 10-11 weeks inside the testes. If they get too hot and become damaged in the early growth cycle, they will still remain damaged the length of their life. This means that a man cannot just switch to boxers when he wants to father a child; he must protect the sperm all the time.

The Way to Keep Cool

The main goal is to keep the testes cool, and they need to be away from the core heat of the body. The best underwear choice is the loose, boxer-style underwear. This allows more air to flow into the crotch area, which in turn, keeps the area cooler. Note: Some men like the boxer-brief style. This style of underwear is typically not loose enough for most men. Your underwear should allow the scrotal sack to hang freely. Of course, there are times when men would prefer there to be less testicular movement – when playing sport, for instance – but there should always be ample time made for hanging around, so to speak.

It’s not just underwear that is an issue; tight (or heavy) clothing or an occupation that requires a man to sit for long periods of time can create havoc for the sperm. Don’t dismiss the idea of tight clothing — we’re not just talking about workout gear or riding a bike too much. The wrong clothing can be in the form of dress slacks or even heavy pants that construction workers wear. While you can’t go to work naked, try to dress in looser and lighter clothing that will keep you cooler.

Lastly, avoid sitting in hot water. Summertime may not be as tempting for the extended use of a hot tub, but in the cooler months, a long soak in a hot tub or a hot baths will raise the core temperature of the testes and possibly damage the sperm.

Conclusion

For some men, it can be a fashion choice. But for those who are struggling with infertility, your underwear does have an impact on your sexual health. So remember, anything that makes or keeps the scrotal area too hot, can harm the viability of your sperm. As you keep cool during these hot summer months, remember to keep your sperm cool too.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4691969/

https://academic.oup.com/humrep/article-abstract/33/9/1749/5066758?

https://www.webmd.com/infertility-and-reproduction/features/boxers-vs-briefs-increasing-sperm-count

https://www.healthline.com/health/mens-health/how-long-does-it-take-for-sperm-to-regenerate#takeaway