Breaking the silence around erectile dysfunction is the first step toward healthier conversations, better treatment outcomes, and improved quality of life for men of all ages

Once considered a problem mostly for older men, erectile dysfunction (ED) is increasingly being reported among younger men in India. Doctors note a sharp rise in cases among those in their 20s and 30s, driven by mental health struggles, changing lifestyles, and the easy availability of pornography. India, often dubbed the “impotence capital of the world,” is seeing numbers climb in tandem with lifestyle diseases and stress-related conditions. By 2025, global cases of ED are expected to reach 322 million, with a significant rise in Asia, including India.

Dr. Chirag Bhandari, Men’s Health & Andrology Expert and Founder of IASH – Institute of Andrology and Sexual Health, takes a closer look at why ED is becoming more common, and what men can do about it.

1. Mental Health Matters

When it comes to sexual health, the brain is just as vital as the body. Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression are among the most potent psychological triggers for erectile dysfunction. Performance anxiety is common in India and is frequently fueled by social pressure to “prove” one’s masculinity. Research indicates that many men who seek treatment for erectile dysfunction also experience anxiety or depression. Sustaining sexual function becomes more difficult when stress hormones like cortisol suppress testosterone.

2. Pornography’s Hidden Influence

The widespread availability of online pornography has changed the sexual behavior of younger Indians. Overuse can generate unrealistic expectations of sex, leading to self-doubt in real relationships. Porn-induced erectile dysfunction (PIED) is a condition where men may be able to perform sexually while watching pornography but struggle with a partner. Research suggests this may be due to the constant novelty of online content overstimulating the brain’s reward system, which reduces the stimulation of in-person intimacy. Urologists and andrologists in India confirm that more young men are reporting such issues, even though the exact causality is still debated.

3. Lifestyle Habits Taking a Toll

Modern lifestyles have created a perfect storm for sexual health problems:

Sedentary living: Desk jobs and long commutes limit physical activity, reducing blood flow that is crucial for erections.

Obesity and poor diet: Diets high in refined carbs and fried foods contribute to diabetes and high cholesterol both risk factors for ED.

Alcohol and smoking: Tobacco damages blood vessels, while excessive alcohol lowers testosterone. Both habits are widespread among urban Indian men.

Poor sleep: Late-night work or screen time reduces sleep quality, disrupting hormonal balance.

A 2023 Indian study directly linked inadequate physical activity and obesity with higher rates of ED, underscoring that lifestyle changes can make a tangible difference.

4. Cultural Silence and Stigma

One of the biggest barriers in India is that men hesitate to seek help. Sexual health remains taboo, and many suffer in silence rather than consult a doctor. Some even resort to unverified home remedies or self-medication, which not only delays treatment but can worsen the problem. Doctors emphasize that ED is not a personal failing but a medical issue that can be managed with the right guidance.

5. What Men Can Do

The good news? ED is treatable. Experts recommend a comprehensive approach:

Seek medical evaluation to rule out underlying conditions.

Address mental health through counseling or therapies like CBT.

Adopt lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and better sleep hygiene.

Consider therapy with a partner to reduce performance anxiety and build intimacy.

ED is no longer limited to “older men.” It is a wake-up call for younger Indian men about the negative effects of stress, pornography, and lifestyle choices. Effective management of ED can restore not only sexual health but also confidence and quality of life through education, candid discussions, and timely medical attention.