Did you know that pelvic floor exercises might be the missing link in treating erectile dysfunction (ED) and premature ejaculation (PE)?

This systematic review analyzed 10 trials and found that pelvic floor muscle training led to significant improvements in both conditions. While traditional treatments often focus on medication, this study highlights a natural, non-invasive approach that could offer real results. The only catch? There’s no universally agreed-upon training protocol yet. But this study could just mean that a simple exercise routine could be the key to better sexual performance—without any prescription.

This week, someone asked me, “Hi Dr Malik I am 69 years of age this August .. I had heart bypass surgery when I was 45yrs old. Since then, I have suffered with up and down blood pressures and I am on a cocktail of pills for my condition... I generally feel O.K. given my age and situation but, I cannot get and maintain an erection... However, I do get a semi erection and just as I ejaculate my penis becomes 90% erect .. :-(”. Here’s the answer to that, given your history of heart bypass surgery and blood pressure fluctuations, it's likely your underlying health conditions are affecting the blood flow to your penis making it difficult for you to maintain and obtain an erection. Also, many blood pressure medications, particularly beta-blockers and diuretics, can affect blood flow and make it harder to achieve and maintain an erection. The fact that you get a semi-erection and become firmer at the point of ejaculation suggests that blood flow isn’t completely blocked, which is a good sign. First and foremost, make sure your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugars are all optimized, and you are eating a heart-healthy and nutritious diet and getting 150 minutes of aerobic exercise weekly. The best next step is to talk to your doctor about adjusting medications if possible and exploring other options like PDE5 inhibitors (Viagra, Cialis), vacuum erection devices, or even penile injections if needed. But most importantly, given your cardiac history, any treatment should be done under medical supervision to ensure safety. Learn more on my podcast here on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcast.

I love hearing from you, so if there’s a question you’ve been wanting to ask, just let me know. Who knows? Your question might be the one I dive into next!

WHAT I’VE BEEN UP TO LATELY

I recently joined the Everyday Wellness Podcast with Cynthia Thurlow, NP, to break the stigma around women’s pelvic and genitourinary health. We got real about urinary tract infections, overactive bladder, pelvic floor dysfunction, and the changes that come with perimenopause and menopause—because these are conversations women need to have. If you’ve ever felt unsure about what’s normal or what you can do to improve your pelvic health, this episode is packed with insights to help you take charge of your body with confidence, so listen now here!

HIGHLIGHTS FROM MY CHANNEL

In this episode, I explored an intriguing connection between sex and longevity that might make you think twice about its health benefits! Quote: "Participants who reported having sex 52 or more times per year... had a significantly lower risk of dying from any cause."

Here are some quick takeaways:

• Weekly sex could reduce your risk of dying by nearly 49%, boosting not just health but also longevity.

• Additional benefits include lowering anxiety and depression, leading to better overall health.

• Sex could even counter the negative health effects of depression, acting as a protective factor.

So, as I discussed, prioritizing your sexual health and connection with your partner isn't just about pleasure—it might actually help you live longer and healthier. For those of you interested in this fascinating finding, make sure you catch the full episode to dive into all the scientific details and implications!

HIGHLIGHTS FROM MY PODCAST

Cindy Gallop and I dove into understanding real versus performative sex and what it means to have safe and healthy communication in the bedroom. Cindy, founder of Make Love Not Porn, shared an eye-opening perspective, “The biggest turn on in this world is to be in bed with somebody and know they're having an amazing time because of you.”

Here’s what stood out:

• Cindy emphasized how essential it is to communicate openly in bed. This makes your intimate experiences truly fulfilling.

• Real bodies, real stories: Her platform celebrates real-world bodies and relationships, showcasing sex as it naturally occurs, enhancing body positivity and authentic connections.

• Make Love Not Porn by Cindy offers a safe haven for people from all walks of life to explore their sexuality in a healthy, constructive way.

Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or here to check how our chat reveals how important it is for everyone to feel confident and understood in their own bodies and how Make Love Not Porn can provide that inspiration. Check out why listeners are commenting, “This is beneficial for people who need better communication and ideas about sexual wellbeing.”