My husband has erectile dysfunction. Is it because of his porn addiction?

"When we first met, 12 years ago, my husband and I didn't waste any time in starting the sexual part of our relationship. He warned me he was a sex addict, and I am enthusiastic about sex. On our first night together I was aware of some erectile dysfunction he wasn't entirely hard and benefited from holding himself when penetrating me though this didn't stop us reaching climax. We joked about how many times I would orgasm and neither of us seemed inhibited."

"Over time, my husband needed more and more help with ejaculating and would often lose his erection during sex. He has shown less interest in any form of intimacy with me, while I have been trying to show my attraction to him in other ways, like hugging and holding hands. About six months into our relationship, I became aware he was using online pornography while I was out of the house."

"It upset me, as I know people who have been exploited in the industry. We discussed this, and he seemed to understand, but his porn use became more entrenched, while our sex life has diminished. On the odd occasion when we try to have sex, he struggles to achieve an erection, whether it's me or him initiating. When we do start, his erection fades away within moments. I try to reassure him, but I feel embarrassed and worthless as a partner,"

A couple began with strong sexual chemistry, but early erectile difficulties were present. Over time the husband's need for assistance to ejaculate increased and erections often failed during intercourse. The husband developed entrenched online pornography use, which coincided with a diminishing sex life and reduced interest in intimacy. The partner feels embarrassed, worthless, and distant while attempting nonsexual affection. Compulsivity and anxiety likely underlie the porn use and sexual problems. The husband probably needs clinical assessment and treatment, and the partner needs emotional support. Medical review, individual therapy, and couples therapy are potential paths toward recovery.

Read at www.theguardian.com