BodyLogicMD Physicians Reveal the Link between Hormones and ED

February, 2011 - Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common problem in many men. And for many, it may be caused by hormonal imbalances. BodyLogicMD affiliated doctors reveal how your hormones - especially testosterone - can lead to ED, and what you can do about it.

Hormones are the primary messengers in your body, so they're responsible for regulating a wide variety of bodily functions. And if they're out of balance, all of those functions are affected.

Testosterone is particularly important for sexual function in men, and a testosterone imbalance can lead to erectile dysfunction. Low testosterone levels can lead to a diminished libido, which can in turn interfere with a man's ability to develop and maintain and erection.

Estrogen is a factor, as well. "In men, too much estrogen will interfere with the way that testosterone is used in the body," says Dr. Gary Joseph, Medical Director of BodyLogicMD of Cleveland, "so they won't be able to use testosterone efficiently. And high estrogen levels in men will decrease their testosterone, too."

And then, there's cortisol, the stress hormone. "High cortisol levels will interfere with testosterone binding to its receptors," Joseph says. "That will also decrease the effect of testosterone."

Other hormonal problems that can lead to ED include an overactive and testicular failure. In testicular failure, the testes are not producing enough testosterone, causing severe testosterone deficiency. High levels of thyroid hormones stimulate the production of prolactin, a pituitary hormone that can reduce your testosterone levels.

But it's not all bad news. When ED is caused by hormonal imbalances, it can often be reversed by balancing your hormones with bioidentical hormone therapy. Getting your hormones tested may be the first step to resolving your ED. "It's hard to know whether your hormones are imbalanced or not without getting tested," Dr. Joseph warns.

More about Dr. Joseph

Graduating from the Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1993, Gary F. Joseph, D.O. completed his Emergency Medicine residency at Doctors Hospital of Stark County in 1997. During his career in practice, he has also acted as a Medical Educator and Residency Director. He is Board Certified with the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine (A4M) and is an active member of the Fellowship in Anti-Aging, Regenerative & Functional Medicine. Dr. Joseph has completed training in Medical Acupuncture at UCLA Medical School/Helms Institute and in Botox Therapy.