Expert explains hidden impact to men's sex lives coming from one common feeling

An expert has revealed how one common issue we face in our everyday life may be impacting intimacy between the sheets for men.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is so common that researchers estimate between 30 to 50 million men in the US suffer from the problem, with ED becoming more common as men age.

However, aging isn't the only thing that plays a factor - and many men can experience impotence under the age of 40.

Now, a doctor has revealed one common part of life could be having an impact.

According to Superdrug Online Doctor, chronic stress and burnout is having a knock-on effect on ED, particularly affecting the sex lives of men under 40.

The clinic states more than half of men seeking help for the problem are now under 35, finding the cause more likely to be linked to stress, exhaustion or emotional overload than any other physical signs.

It's affecting more men under the age of 40 (Getty)

Dr Babak, GP at Superdrug Online Doctor said: "Modern life is fast-paced, high-pressure and always-on.

"Many men are burning out mentally and emotionally long before they realise it and it’s having a direct impact on their sexual wellbeing."

He continued: “Chronic stress triggers a cascade of hormonal and neurological changes that make arousal and erections much harder to sustain. Essentially, the body can’t be in ‘fight or flight’ mode and ‘intimate’ mode at the same time.”

This is because stress prompts a rise in cortisol, the body's stress hormone, which interferes with testosterone production and blood flow, which is pretty important for thriving sexual function down there.

The pros point out new research from the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that men with higher stress levels are two to three times more likely to experience difficulties getting or maintaining an erection compared to those with lower stressful incidents.

“We’re seeing a generation of men who are constantly switched on; balancing demanding jobs, gym goals, relationships, and the pressure to ‘have it all together,'" Dr Babak continued.

“When that pressure becomes chronic, it drains both mental energy and sexual desire. The result is a vicious cycle, stress leads to poor performance, which increases anxiety, and that reinforces the problem.”

There are some lifestyle changes that can be made to improve it (Getty)

Despite being quite common, the doc says sexual burnout can often go unnoticed since many men feel embarrassed to find help.

He said: “Men are conditioned to push through tiredness and stress, but the body eventually gives in.

“Low mood, irritability, difficulty sleeping, or a drop in sex drive are all red flags that the mind and body are overstretched."

As well as opening up to a loved one, like a partner, or an online clinician, Dr Babak recommended some lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, a healthy sleep routine, mindfulness and a cut back on alcohol and caffeine that can get you back on track.

“The goal isn’t perfection, it’s recovery,” he added. “Even small steps like switching off from work earlier, prioritising rest, and finding genuine relaxation away from screens can help rewire the body’s stress response and rebuild libido.”