Naturally, the penis becomes erect when sexually stimulated by the brain or various sensory nerves. The nerve endings in the penis secrete certain substances
that cause the arteries inside the penis to dilate. Oxygenated blood flows into the organ, causing the penis to enlarge and lengthen. At the same time, the veins at the outer edges are compressed, which further traps blood in the penis, making it erect and ready for sexual intercourse.
What is Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?
Erectile dysfunction is the condition where the penis does not become erect enough for sexual intercourse. It can manifest as an erection that does not last long enough or sometimes no erection at all. Some may also experience premature ejaculation. These problems are often found in older men or those with various underlying health conditions.
The main causes of erectile dysfunction are multifactorial. Having chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, chronic kidney disease, chronic alcoholism, heavy smoking, prostate surgery, as well as psychological and emotional issues like stress, depression, and regular use of certain medications such as antidepressants and sleeping pills, are factors that contribute to erectile dysfunction.
“Currently, the number of people at risk of this condition is three times higher than in the past due to lifestyle changes that increase men’s risk of erectile dysfunction.”
Surveys show that most men begin to experience erectile dysfunction in middle age, with about 37% of men aged 40-70 suffering from this condition, exhibiting one or more of the symptoms mentioned above. The prevalence increases with age due to declining sex hormones.
Is Erectile Dysfunction Untreatable?
Not all patients with erectile dysfunction require treatment. If the patient and their partner do not feel that this issue affects their relationship, treatment may not be necessary. However, erectile dysfunction can be an indicator of diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol.
It may also be a risk factor for other diseases. Therefore, even if sexual activity is no longer desired, it is advisable to undergo health check-ups to assess for possible underlying conditions.
How is Erectile Dysfunction Treated?
Basic health care can reduce the risk of this problem, such as eating healthier, exercising, reducing smoking and alcohol consumption. Additionally, there are other treatment options currently available.
• Taking Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) Inhibitors
• Using a vacuum erection device
• Using urethral suppositories
• Penile injections
• Shockwave therapy treatment
• Penile augmentation surgery
Stem Cell Therapy
Several studies have investigated the use of stem cells in treating erectile dysfunction. An interesting study in 2016 compared the use of bone marrow stem cells at doses of 20 million, 200 million, 1 billion, and 2 billion cells injected into the penis of participants with erectile dysfunction.
The study found that stem cell therapy effectively treated erectile dysfunction without side effects. Follow-up was conducted for 6 months after the trial, concluding that the optimal dose is 1 billion stem cells.
Stem Cell Therapy is a new innovation that enhances the effectiveness of erectile dysfunction treatment by stimulating the function of endothelial cells to return to normal. Currently, many clinical studies using stem cells to treat erectile dysfunction have shown safety and good efficacy.
Currently, both Embryonic Stem Cells (ESCs) and Adult Stem Cells (ASCs) derived from adipose tissue, bone marrow, and umbilical cord are capable of differentiating into various tissue types without tissue rejection. When transplanted into a suitable environment, these stem cells can develop into the desired cells or tissues.
They can be used to treat erectile dysfunction due to their ability to secrete various cytokines and growth factors, especially Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, which stimulates endothelial cell function and promotes new blood vessel formation (vasculogenesis). This increases blood flow to the penis, improving vascular and nerve function in the area, restoring normal erectile function.
Why Does Stem Cell Therapy Help Reduce Erectile Dysfunction?
Stem cells are special cells naturally found in everyone’s body that replace damaged or deteriorated cells, acting as a reserve cell source. Research shows that stem cells promote the formation of endothelial cells, increase new blood vessel growth, and secrete substances that enhance nerve cell function, improving nerve signaling. When combined with medication, vacuum devices, or low-frequency sound waves, the treatment response is even better.
Advantages of Stem Cell Therapy
• Non-surgical, convenient, fast, and requires little treatment time
• Shorter recovery time compared to surgery
• Does not require taking large amounts of medication for long periods, which can have cardiovascular side effects
• Effective treatment with long-lasting results
• Very low chance of recurrence if medical advice is properly followed
• Enhances sensory perception and sensation in the penis
• Improves erectile function
• Increases penile blood flow for faster and longer-lasting erections
• Restores healthy skin appearance of the penis
