A Brisbane-based escort has offered guidance to men about a bedroom problem she says is far more widespread than many realise.
Lilith Lodge, who has worked as an escort for around four years, has spoken publicly about a concern she believes isn’t properly understood, despite how often it affects men.
In a recent YouTube video, Lodge explained that while many men may experience it at some point, repeated difficulties should be treated as a reason to seek professional support rather than something to brush off.
She added that it’s an issue she comes across regularly with clients, and she encourages people to speak to a doctor instead of avoiding the topic due to embarrassment.
The subject she focused on was erectile dysfunction (ED) — a condition that affects millions of men but is still surrounded by stigma.
Erectile dysfunction is generally described as being unable to get or keep an erection firm enough for sex.
Lodge suggested that shame and silence are major reasons some men don’t look for help in the first place.
In the video, she said: “I think this is a really important topic of conversation to have because I feel like there’s a lot of men struggling with this that don’t actually realize that is what is going on.
“It’s just not something that is commonly spoken about.”
Research cited by the National Institute of Health indicates that an estimated 30 to 50 million men in the US experience ED.
The agency also notes that ED becomes more common with age, stating that around 40 percent of men are affected at 40, while about 70 percent report ED by age 70.
Lodge went on to explain that various factors can make it harder to maintain an erection, but persistent problems may point to underlying health concerns.
She said: “What is erectile dysfunction? It is not being able to get or maintain a hard on… It’s really not uncommon for this to happen here or there as an occasional thing.
“If it’s an occasional thing, it’s probably not erectile dysfunction… But if this is a repeat issue, that is when you need to go and seek help for it.
“It can actually be a sign of a much more serious health condition.
“That’s why I really want to push that you need to go and see a medical professional.”