As if having erectile dysfunction wasn’t hard enough, scientists said impotence may be linked to a common condition that causes humiliating, stubborn symptoms.
ED, which affects about 30 million US men, occurs when you can’t get or keep an erection firm enough for satisfactory sex. It can be caused by psychological troubles, such as stress or past trauma, physical problems, like diabetes or nerve issues, medications or substance use.
Now, scientists are probing a potential tie between ED and irritable bowel syndrome, a chronic gastrointestinal disorder that’s believed to affect 10% to 15% of the US population.
In a small study of medical students, Peruvian researchers determined that those with IBS had a 108% higher prevalence of ED than those without the stomach condition.
The study authors pointed out that medical students often face immense academic demands. Stress can significantly influence the production of sex hormones, especially testosterone, and disrupt the coordination between nerves and blood vessels required for an erection.
They also noted that IBS sufferers often have a poor quality of life because of embarrassing symptoms like uncontrollable gas, diarrhea and bloating, which severely impacts their mental health and impairs their desire for arousal.
Possible explanations beyond psychological factors include IBS-related changes to gut hormones, which can affect blood flow and nerve signaling, and troubles with the inner lining of blood vessels.
A separate 2024 study confirmed that inflammatory bowel disease may contribute to ED.
IBD is similar to IBS in that it’s a chronic digestive condition, but IBS does not cause inflammation.
Between 2.4 million and 3.1 million Americans are estimated to have IBD.
The study authors suggested that Crohn’s disease — a type of IBD that’s characterized by inflammation in the digestive tract — may heighten the risk of ED, while ulcerative colitis might not.
Ulcerative colitis is a type of IBD that causes inflammation and ulcers in the colon and rectum. The study authors said further research is needed to clarify a causal relationship between IBD and ED.
There are no known cures for IBD or IBS.
Patients may find relief with medicine, a healthier diet and lifestyle changes like managing stress and drinking more water. IBD sufferers sometimes need surgery.
Men with ED, meanwhile, may benefit from oral medications, exercise, sobriety, psychosexual counseling or surgery.
