Sexual intimacy can be an important part of a marriage or long-term relationship, so this change may cause anxiety or a feeling of loss for both partners. A small 2014 study in Iran found that ED can make males feel:

• depressed

• angry

• less masculine

• socially isolated

• in denial

• lacking in self-confidence

• the desire to avoid their spouse

ED also affects the mental health of a person’s partner. According to a 2016 review, ED can make a person’s partner feel confused, anxious, undesirable, or suspicious that their partner may be unfaithful.

In many cases, ED is treatable. A range of effective treatments can restore sexual function, thereby improving satisfaction in a relationship. A doctor can help couples understand their options, and they will often encourage both partners to attend appointments.

As a first order of business,  make sure your partner with ED is medically safe. Erectile dysfunction can be linked to an underlying health issue, such as cardiovascular disease or type 2 diabetes, or a mental-health condition like depression or anxiety, so encouraging your partner to see a health-care provider may be an important step to both treating the issue and supporting their health. Otherwise, reframing your mindset and approach to sex can go a long way toward finding sexual satisfaction.

However, a person may have to try several treatments or go through testing to find an option that works for them. During this time, it is important for their partner to be open, understanding, and supportive. In one study, 94% of males felt that their partner’s support was important when dealing with ED.

Some approaches that people can try include:

• open communication
• counseling
• other forms of intimacy
• lifestyle changes

Having a conversation about the feelings of guilt or embarrassment around ED can clear up misunderstandings such as lack of desire. The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) also suggest that partners let people with ED know that:

• 
  ED does not make them any less masculine or desirable
• Sex is not as important as the person’s health and well-being
• They are willing to work through this with the person

Here are some tips for experiencing more sexual pleasure with a partner when one of you is experiencing ED:

• Communication is KEY
• Counseling
• Re-examine your definition of sex
• Unpack why you like to have sex with your partner
• Bring in pleasure products, such as sex toys
• Try not to stress

Both people in a marriage or long-term relationship can find it difficult to deal with one partner’s ED. However, numerous effective treatments are available. Support from a partner can be very beneficial for someone undergoing ED treatment.

Having open, honest discussions and finding other ways to connect can help a couple retain or regain intimacy and closeness. People who have difficulty with this may benefit from talking to a couples counselor, who can offer advice on ways to cope.

Sources:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-to-deal-with-ed-in-a-marriage

https://www.wellandgood.com/dating-someone-erectile-dysfunction/