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Sexual health is about more than just performance. It encompasses physical vitality, psychological wellbeing, and relationship confidence
News18
Male sexual disorders are more common than often acknowledged, particularly erectile dysfunction (ED) and premature ejaculation. However, stigma, fragmented care, and inconsistent treatment approaches continue to surround them. This leaves many men on a path of trial and error trying unproven remedies or switching from one prescription to another without finding a complete solution.
A much-needed framework is provided by standardized care pathways, which guarantee consistency, evidence-based practice, and ultimately better quality of life and patient outcomes.
Dr Chirag Bhandari, Men’s Health & Andrology Expert and Founder, IASH, shares all you need to know.
The Case for a Structured Pathway
A thorough assessment is the first step in a standardized care pathway. This involves a detailed medical and psychosexual history, sometimes supported by structured questionnaires designed to capture subtle aspects of sexual function. Such assessments help determine whether a disorder is rooted in physical, psychological, or mixed causes.
This distinction is critical. Psychogenic factors such as stress, depression, or performance anxiety require a very different approach compared to organic causes like diabetes or cardiovascular disease.
Once the root cause is identified, the course of treatment becomes clearer. Lifestyle interventions often form the foundation, as habits such as smoking, alcohol consumption, lack of physical activity, and poor diet can significantly impair sexual health. Exercise, stress management, and dietary improvements not only support erectile function but also enhance overall wellbeing.
For many men with organic dysfunction, medications particularly phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors like sildenafil and tadalafil remain the first line of treatment. Where psychological factors predominate, cognitive behavioral therapy and counseling have shown proven benefits. In severe cases where medication is ineffective, surgical options such as penile implants may be considered. Importantly, treatment does not end with a prescription; regular follow-up ensures progress is tracked, side effects are managed, and interventions are adjusted when needed.
Broadening the Scope with Advanced Therapies
Recent advances in medical science have expanded the toolkit for sexual health, moving beyond symptom relief to focus on vascular repair, tissue rejuvenation, and mind–body coordination. These innovations integrate naturally into standardized care pathways, offering alternatives for patients who do not respond adequately to conventional treatment.
Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy (PRP, or the P-shot): Uses a patient’s own platelets to stimulate tissue repair and improve penile blood flow, especially beneficial in mild to moderate ED.
The X-shot: An advanced variant that combines PRP with stem cell–derived exosomes, accelerating tissue regeneration and enhancing erectile strength and sensitivity.
Shockwave Therapy: A non-invasive method that stimulates new blood vessel growth and improves circulation. Administered in multiple sessions, it can deliver long-term results.
Laser Therapy: Similar to shockwave therapy, it encourages healthier tissue growth through targeted energy.
For conditions such as premature ejaculation and performance anxiety, advanced pathways may also include structured behavioral programs. These combine pelvic floor training, mindfulness, breathing techniques, dietary changes, and cognitive retraining to strengthen the brain–body connection. The outcome is not only better control but also improved confidence, energy, and emotional wellbeing.
Addressing Broader Concerns
Sexual health extends beyond erectile function. Many men also struggle with concerns such as penile size, pelvic floor dysfunction, or chronic pain. Here too, standardized pathways can integrate newer solutions responsibly.
Penile Fillers: A safe, minimally invasive option for enhancing girth, with results lasting several years.
Surgical Grafting: A more permanent option, typically limited to girth enhancement.
Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation: Highly effective for chronic pelvic pain, prostatitis, or muscle dysfunction. Techniques like biofeedback, electromagnetic stimulation, and laser therapy restore muscle balance, reduce discomfort, and support both urinary and sexual health.
These examples highlight that standardization does not restrict options. Instead, it ensures that treatments are offered in a systematic, evidence-based way, aligning patient needs with the right mix of conventional and advanced therapies.
Towards Integrated and Holistic Care
The evolution of male sexual health treatment underscores the importance of merging structure with innovation. Standardized care pathways ensure that every patient undergoes thorough assessment, clear diagnosis, and carefully sequenced treatment, minimizing the risks of misdiagnosis or inappropriate interventions.
At the same time, the availability of advanced therapies from regenerative medicine to mind–body conditioning means care can be personalized to each individual.
Ultimately, sexual health is about more than just performance. It encompasses physical vitality, psychological wellbeing, and relationship confidence. By breaking stigma, adopting standardized frameworks, and embracing both conventional and advanced approaches, healthcare systems can move closer to providing consistent, holistic, and dignified care for men everywhere.
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read More
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read More
September 06, 2025, 18:01 IST
