Obesity can contribute to erectile dysfunction because it is often associated with conditions that impair blood circulation, such as diabetes.
Among men in Brazil, the prevalence of obesity is 23.8%, according to the Vigitel Brasil 2023 survey, which maps risk factors for chronic diseases.
This report from the Ministry of Health shows that obesity is more frequent around the age of 54 years.
Future projections are concerning. According to the National Obesity Congress, 48% of adults are expected to be obese and 27% overweight.
Excess weight is associated with impacts on different aspects of health, including sexual life and overall sexual health.
Learn more about obesity and sexual health.
What Can Obesity Cause in Men?
Obesity is linked to problems that can interfere with health at many levels. Below are some examples.
Infographic about the health problems associated with obesity
Obesity and Sexual Health
Obesity can contribute to erectile dysfunction, especially when it is associated with conditions that compromise circulation.
How, then, is obesity related to penile blood flow?
Excess fat can accumulate around blood vessels, making it harder for blood to flow.
High levels of body fat also promote inflammation and increase cholesterol, which may contribute to plaque build-up in the arteries.
What Is the Relationship Between Obesity and Erectile Dysfunction?
Below you will find factors that link obesity and erectile dysfunction, and how the consequences of excess weight can complicate sexual performance and even male fertility.
Reduced Testosterone
Low testosterone and obesity are closely related topics, since excess fat can lead to hormonal imbalance.
Fat cells convert testosterone into estrogen, a predominantly female hormone. As estrogen rises, the brain interprets that hormone levels are sufficient and signals the body to reduce testosterone production.
How Obesity Affects Hormones
Obesity also increases estradiol levels, a hormone produced from testosterone.
Estradiol plays a role in sexual function, and this imbalance can reduce available testosterone and be associated with erectile dysfunction in men with obesity.
Infertility
Beyond its impact on sexual life, elevated body fat is also related to male infertility problems.
Authors of an article on obesity and male fertility reviewed 30 studies comparing body weight and waist size with semen characteristics.
Of these 30 studies, 25 reported that men with higher weight or BMI (body mass index) tended to have poorer semen quality.
These findings suggest that, in men with more severe obesity, sperm count may be lower and morphology and motility can be affected.
Compromised Blood Circulation
Arterial circulation problems are among the main factors associated with erection difficulties in men with excess weight.
Without adequate blood flow to the penile region, it becomes more difficult to achieve and maintain an erection. Proper blood circulation is essential for penile rigidity during sexual activity.
Male Self-Esteem
Changes in male self-esteem also help explain how obesity can affect sexual desire.
Many men who are above their recommended weight feel uncomfortable with their bodies for not fitting beauty standards.
This can generate insecurity and negatively influence how they experience their sexuality.
Anxiety
It is difficult to discuss the relationship between obesity and sexual dysfunction without mentioning anxiety.
Excess weight may trigger insecurity and low self-esteem, directly affecting sexual desire.
In addition, physical inactivity and an unbalanced diet can contribute to emotional instability, creating a cycle that impacts both physical and emotional well-being.
Infographic showing the relationship between anxiety and sexual life
How to Treat Erectile Dysfunction in Men With Obesity?
Treating erectile dysfunction in men with obesity usually involves follow-up with different health professionals. See some examples:
- Urologist: may prescribe medications such as sildenafil or tadalafil. If the response is insufficient, penile injections may be considered. In selected cases, the physician may evaluate the indication for a penile prosthesis.
- Nutritionist: beyond prescribing a meal plan, the nutritionist helps patients build a healthier relationship with food.
- Psychologist: some studies suggest that marriage may increase the risk of obesity, since many couples tend to eat out more frequently. An international study reported that married men were 3.2% more likely to be obese.
Obesity and Sexual Health Content on Dr. Paulo Egydio’s Channel
Obesity can be associated with erectile dysfunction, and lifestyle changes together with urological care may help improve well-being and sexual self-confidence.
Looking for reliable information about men’s health is also part of this process.
Subscribe to Dr. Paulo Egydio’s YouTube channel to follow educational content on obesity and sexual health prepared by a specialist physician.
Learn more:
9 Main Causes of Male Impotence and How to Manage Them
How to Improve Your Erection? 12 Evidence-Based Practices
Medication-Induced Erectile Dysfunction: Available Treatments
Top Supplements for Male Libido According to Studies
Erectile Dysfunction: What It Is, Main Symptoms and Treatment Options
Sex Therapist or Urologist: Which Specialist Should You See First?
Penis Pumps and Penile Injections
Does Ozempic Cause Erectile Dysfunction? Understanding the Relationship
