You might assume that erectile dysfunction (ED) is something that only affects older men, but that’s not entirely true. While it’s certainly more common with age, many men begin noticing changes in their sexual performance as early as their 30s or 40s. These changes may start subtly; perhaps you have trouble maintaining firmness, notice that your erections aren’t as strong as they used to be, or find that recovery takes longer than it used to.
At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, we help you understand when ED can begin, what factors accelerate it, and when it might be time to consider regenerative solutions, such as the P-Shot, which utilizes your body’s own growth factors to restore healthy sexual function.
Is there any particular age when ED starts?
There’s no single “starting age” for erectile dysfunction. It can happen at virtually any stage of adulthood, though the likelihood increases as you get older. Research shows that about 40% of men in their 40s experience some degree of ED, and this number rises to 50-60% in their 50s and beyond. However, younger men aren’t immune, and studies have found that up to 25% of men under 40 experience erectile issues at some point.
In many cases, the early onset of ED is a warning sign rather than a permanent condition. It often points to underlying issues like poor blood flow, hormonal imbalance, stress, or lifestyle habits that can be reversed with the right approach. That’s why addressing ED early is so important: it can prevent complications and help you regain control of your sexual health.
Factors (besides age) that can contribute to ED
While age is the most well-known risk factor, it’s not the only one. Many men in their 20s, 30s, and 40s experience erectile issues due to health, lifestyle, or psychological factors. However, you can take proactive steps before the problem becomes more serious.
Low testosterone levels
Testosterone levels naturally decline with age, but in some men, they drop prematurely. Low testosterone can affect libido, energy levels, mood, and the ability to maintain an erection. If you notice reduced sexual desire, fatigue, or muscle loss along with ED symptoms, it may be time to have your hormone levels checked.
Cardiovascular and vascular disease
Your ability to achieve an erection depends heavily on healthy blood flow. Conditions like high blood pressure, peripheral vascular disease, or high cholesterol can narrow arteries, limiting the amount of blood reaching the penis. Since the penile arteries are smaller than those in the heart, ED can actually be one of the first warning signs of cardiovascular disease.
Diabetes and insulin resistance
Men with diabetes are at much higher risk of developing ED due to damage to blood vessels and nerves that control erection. Even prediabetes or insulin resistance can contribute to these problems. Controlling blood sugar through diet, medication, and weight management not only improves your energy and health but also supports better erectile performance.
Smoking and alcohol use
Nicotine and excessive alcohol use both affect circulation and nerve sensitivity. Smoking in particular constricts blood vessels and damages the inner lining of arteries, reducing the body’s ability to deliver oxygen-rich blood where it’s needed. Quitting or cutting back can help restore proper blood flow and improve erectile response over time.
Stress, anxiety, and psychological factors
For many men, stress, performance anxiety, or depression play a key role. These mental factors interfere with arousal, reduce nitric oxide release (which helps blood flow into the penis), and can lead to a cycle of ongoing ED. Seeking therapy, practicing stress management, or combining treatment with regenerative medicine can help restore confidence.
Obesity and a sedentary lifestyle
Excess weight, particularly around the abdomen, increases estrogen levels and decreases testosterone production. It also contributes to poor circulation and inflammation. A sedentary lifestyle only amplifies these effects. Regular exercise and healthy weight loss can dramatically improve both hormonal balance and vascular health, often reversing mild to moderate ED.
How to know it’s time for the P-Shot
The P-Shot (short for Priapus Shot) is a non-surgical treatment that uses your body’s own platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to rejuvenate penile tissue. By injecting concentrated growth factors derived from your own blood, the P-Shot helps stimulate the formation of new blood vessels, repair nerve endings, and enhance natural sensitivity. The P-Shot aims to restore natural erectile function over time, making it an excellent regenerative solution.
Here’s how to know it’s the right time for the P-Shot.
When medications stop working or cause side effects
If you’ve tried oral medications but they no longer provide the same effect, or if you’ve experienced side effects like headaches, flushing, or low blood pressure, the P-Shot can offer a drug-free, long-term alternative. It works to repair the underlying vascular and tissue damage rather than masking the symptoms.
When you notice reduced sensitivity or pleasure
Many men find that, over time, sexual sensation becomes less intense even if they can still get an erection. This can happen due to nerve damage, reduced blood flow, or aging. The P-Shot can rejuvenate nerve endings and restore sensitivity, leading to stronger experiences.
When your confidence or intimacy is affected
ED can take an emotional toll, not just on you, but on your relationship. If you find yourself avoiding intimacy or feeling anxious about performance, it might be time to address the root cause. The P-Shot not only improves physical function but also restores confidence, helping you reconnect emotionally with your partner.
When you prefer a natural, regenerative approach
Unlike medications or surgery, the P-Shot utilizes your own biological material, making it an ideal option for those who prefer a natural, minimally invasive solution. It can also complement other therapies, such as GAINSWave or hormone optimization, for a more comprehensive approach to sexual wellness.
Erectile dysfunction doesn’t have a set starting age: many men experience it earlier than expected due to factors like stress, lifestyle habits, or undiagnosed health conditions. The key is to recognize the signs early and seek help before it becomes a persistent issue.
At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, we specialize in personalized, regenerative solutions that help you take control of your sexual health. Whether you’re just starting to notice subtle changes or have been struggling for years, the P-Shot can help reignite performance, confidence, and intimacy. With the right care and expertise, you can feel like yourself again.
