'Festive Flop' affecting 4.3 million men in UK amid Christmas over-indulgence

It's a condition that affects millions of men in the UK - and it could be worse this week

Erectile dysfunction can be a real issue in a relationship - and a doctor says the past week could well have made it worse for the more than four million men in the UK who are affected by it. Dr Janine David said more booze than usual, reduced exercise and stress can all contribute - and all are often increased over the festive season.

Dr David, men’s sexual health specialist and an advisor to Eroxon, said 4.3 million men in the UK suffer from erectile dysfunction (ED). It's described by the NHS as being unable to get an erection or unable to keep an erection for long enough to have sex.

And the bad news, she said, was that Christmas can make it worse, with stress, alcohol, diet and reduced physical activity all contributing.

Dr David said: "Excessive alcohol intake is one of the primary contributors, with 57% of men acknowledging this, according to Eroxon research. However, avoiding alcohol during the party season can be challenging. On top of this, the stress of managing everything—decorating, hosting, and finding the perfect gifts while overspending—can be overwhelming. Alarmingly, 46% of men with erectile dysfunction (ED) report that stress is the biggest factor contributing to their condition. And when it comes to sex, the pressure to perform may be overwhelming with Festive Flop the result."

How to bust the Festive Flop

Smart sipping: Dr David said: "Look at your social calendar and decide when you'll be attending parties, then aim to stretch your drinks out—perhaps making two drinks last throughout each event. Also, set aside one or two alcohol-free days each week. And with the growing variety of alcohol-free options available, you can easily enjoy a drink without the effects."

Focus on de-stressing and staying active: Dr David said: "Limit stress and introduce stress-reducing practices and consider cutting out some non-essential tasks. If you're a gym member, try fitting in a few extra sessions over the holidays, or commit to a brisk 30-minute walk, run, or swim each day to stay active."

Don’t feel a failure and take action: Dr David said: "It’s all too easy to feel guilty about Festive Flop. A new treatment to try is Eroxon which is a fast-acting gel for erectile dysfunction (ED), and clinically proven to help you get an erection within 10 minutes, plus you can buy it over-the-counter without a prescription or having to ask anyone. Get your partner to buy Eroxon in the pharmacy or online and involve them in applying as part of foreplay so putting fun back into the bedroom and enabling you and your partner to take control without fear of failure."

Talk to your partner: Dr David said: "If it’s a long-term partner you’ll be having sex with over the holiday and you fear a dose of Festive Flop, as maybe it’s happened before, talk to your partner. The Eroxon research showed that two thirds of men found it helpful to talk to their partner. With more than half of men feeling supported after talking to their partner."

Practice moderation with your food choices: Dr David said: "Savour the festive treats, but don't overindulge. Make sure to balance your meals with the healthy options the season offers, such as whole grains, salmon, olive oil, nuts, legumes, tea, and plenty of fresh vegetables."