How Often Should You REALLY Ejaculate? | Cialis vs. Viagra | AMA

Summary

In this episode of the Reena Malik MD podcast, Dr. Reena Malik, a urologist and pelvic surgeon, addresses common questions about erectile dysfunction medications, prostate health, and sexual well-being. She compares popular ED medications like Viagra and Cialis, discusses the potential benefits of frequent ejaculation in reducing prostate cancer risk, and offers advice on home remedies for lubrication. Dr. Malik also explains the impact of medications like finasteride on prostate and sexual health, emphasizing their effectiveness and side effects. The episode provides informative insights for individuals dealing with these health issues.

Takeaways

• 😀 Medications like Viagra (Sildenafil) and Cialis (Tadalafil) work by enhancing blood flow to the penis, helping with erectile dysfunction.
• 😀 Viagra typically lasts about 4 hours, while Cialis can last up to 36 hours, offering more flexibility for sexual spontaneity.
• 😀 Both medications have similar side effects, including headaches, nasal congestion, and skin flushing, though they can differ in how quickly they work and the side effects they cause.
• 😀 Cialis can be taken with or without food, whereas Viagra works best on an empty stomach.
• 😀 Frequent ejaculation (21 times or more per month) may lower the risk of prostate cancer according to one study, though this is not a guaranteed prevention method.
• 😀 The theory behind the link between ejaculation frequency and prostate cancer is that it may help 'cleanse' the prostate, potentially reducing cancer risk.
• 😀 Men can safely ejaculate frequently, whether through sex or masturbation, without causing harm to their health.
• 😀 If you run out of lube, natural oils like coconut oil and olive oil are generally safe to use and can help reduce discomfort during sex.
• 😀 Avoid using petroleum-based products like Vaseline as lubricants, as they can cause irritation and damage to the genital area.
• 😀 Finasteride (Proscar) can shrink the prostate and help with symptoms of BPH, but it may cause sexual side effects like decreased libido and lower ejaculate volume.
• 😀 For men with both BPH and erectile dysfunction, a low-dose Cialis regimen (5mg daily) may address both issues simultaneously.

Q & A

What is the primary difference between Cialis (tadalafil) and Viagra (sildenafil) for treating erectile dysfunction?

The main difference lies in their half-life and duration of action. Viagra (sildenafil) typically works within 30 minutes to an hour and lasts around 4 hours, while Cialis (tadalafil) lasts up to 36 hours, offering more spontaneity for users.

Do Cialis and Viagra have similar side effects?

Yes, both medications can cause side effects such as nasal congestion, headaches, and skin flushing. However, sildenafil (Viagra) may also cause blue-green vision discoloration, while tadalafil (Cialis) can lead to muscle aches.

Can Cialis and Viagra be taken with food?

Sildenafil (Viagra) should not be taken with food, as it reduces its effectiveness. However, tadalafil (Cialis) can be taken with or without food, offering more flexibility for users.

How does ejaculation frequency relate to prostate cancer risk?

A study found that men who ejaculated 21 times or more per month had a significantly lower risk of developing prostate cancer compared to those who ejaculated fewer than seven times a month. While the study suggests a potential protective effect, more research is needed to confirm this link.

Does frequent ejaculation have any potential benefits for prostate health?

Yes, there is a theory suggesting that frequent ejaculation may help 'clean' the prostate, potentially preventing the stagnation of fluids that could cause inflammation or lead to prostate cancer. However, this theory remains under investigation and is not conclusive.

What alternative lubricants can be used if commercial options run out?

In a pinch, oils like coconut oil and olive oil can be used as natural lubricants. These are generally safe and have beneficial properties, such as coconut oil's anti-inflammatory effects, but some individuals may be sensitive to oils.

What is the impact of finasteride on prostate health?

Finasteride is effective in reducing prostate size and improving symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It works by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which plays a major role in prostate growth.

Can finasteride be used to prevent prostate cancer?

While a major study, the MTOP study, showed that finasteride did not reduce the incidence of prostate cancer, it did reveal that when prostate cancer did develop, it was often of a higher grade. However, the medication is not considered a preventive treatment for prostate cancer.

What sexual side effects can result from using finasteride?

Common side effects of finasteride include decreased ejaculation volume and potentially reduced sexual desire. A rare condition known as post-finasteride syndrome can result in persistent sexual side effects even after discontinuing the medication.

Are there other medication options for BPH and erectile dysfunction?

Yes, tadalafil (Cialis), a medication for erectile dysfunction, can also be used to treat BPH. A low daily dose of tadalafil helps relax the prostate and improve urine flow, addressing both BPH and erectile dysfunction simultaneously.