This is the effect vaping could have on men

Although it is popular, easy to use, and ubiquitous, vaping can have this effect on men.

It's seen everywhere and is seen as a much easier alternative to smoking. Smoking cigarettes, cigars, and joints in public spaces has been banned since the early 2000s. Before the ban, it was the Wild West. Until the late '80s, smoking was allowed in workplaces, hospitals, grocery stores, schools, bars, restaurants, and airplanes. When indoor smoking was banned, smoking declined. After the ban, vaping technology emerged and was made available to the public in 2003. By 2011, about 7 million people worldwide vaped, and by 2021, that number had risen to over 82 million. There's only one reason for that number. When cannabis became legal, vaping marijuana became popular, going head-to-head with smoking and gummies for consumption options. But there's a warning: vaping can cause men to experience… erectile dysfunction.

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Although they contain fewer chemicals, vapes can still damage endothelial cells. They can cause oxidative stress on the endothelial cells in blood vessels. This can affect nitric oxide (NO) levels and its signaling in the body. This can be a problem because sufficient NO is needed to produce an erection.

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One study suggests that men who vape nicotine are twice as likely to suffer from erectile dysfunction as men who don't vape. And cannabinoid receptors in both the brain and penis may negatively impact erectile function.

The first study, published in the American Journal of Preventative Medicine, looked at vaping and sexual health in men. They analyzed self-reports from over 13,000 men over the age of 20. Among other things, it was found that men who used e-cigarettes were 2.2 times more likely to suffer from erectile dysfunction.

Caveats of the study include that the data were self-reported, so there is a potential for bias. Additionally, the survey did not ask whether men were taking medications that increase the risk of erectile dysfunction, such as antidepressants.

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Nicotine has long been linked to a number of sexual dysfunctions, including erectile dysfunction and reduced arousal. Researchers believe this link is due to smoking and the damage it causes to the circulatory system, which can also increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. When the circulatory system is compromised, it is more difficult to get an erection naturally.

Cannabis has long been used as an aphrodisiac. Light consumption can relax the body and increase sensory perception. However, some research has shown that heavy consumption can cause problems, so it may not only be how much you consume that matters, but also how you consume it. If you are having problems, talk to a doctor.