Treating ED with Numan: James’ story

James (33), a former bodybuilder, grappled with erectile dysfunction (ED). It was a result of steroid use which caused a drop in testosterone and affected his erections. He spoke to us about how Numan helped him regain his confidence in the bedroom. 

When did you first notice symptoms of ED?

When I was younger I had no idea that steroids affected testosterone levels, so repeated use meant my hormones took a massive nosedive. As a result, I started having problems with my erections. I’ve been with my partner for about 6 years but ED started to happen in the first few weeks we were going out. 

What was your reaction?

I don’t want to blow my own trumpet but my partner is stunning and I couldn’t believe it was happening. I thought it was a nerves thing but I’m not a nervous guy. And then it just kept happening more regularly. I was massively depressed through it. It affected me mentally as it would any bloke. If you can't do stuff like that, it feels like you’ve lost your masculinity. 

What was your experience like when you first reached out to Numan?

I’ve been using Numan for about 3 years now. It seemed quite expensive at first and I wasn't sure about it but your clinicians reassured me and created a treatment plan where I would be ready to go at any time. I can sit comfortably knowing I won’t have that niggling feeling that it’ll happen again. 

Is ED hard to talk about?

When I was younger, it was ridiculously hard to talk about. My partner was wondering why I was having problems and she thought I wasn’t attracted to her. But opening up and telling her about my past was a massive turning point. 

Now that I’m older, I find it easier to talk about. All my mates are the same sort of age and have the same issues. I think dealing with ED would be a lot easier if people talked more openly about it. 

How has Numan helped you manage ED?

I think without this sort of treatment there’d be an 80% chance I wouldn't be with my partner now. I think any sort of relationship where you can’t fulfil someone’s needs is a bit of a deal breaker. It’s given me confidence as I know it’s going to work. 

Do you have any advice for someone going through the same thing?

I would just say talk about it. There’s a horrible stigma. Engaging in the conversation and bringing myself to open up about it was the hardest thing for me. It’s important to be proactive and seek help. Doctors understand and it’s a normal thing loads of men go through.