Sex: The Impact of Performance Anxiety

With global erectile dysfunction projected to affect over 320 million people by 2025, Nigeria is contributing significantly as more people turn to fake, unregulated aphrodisiacs without medical advice. This frantic search for sexual prowess has fueled a booming “manpower” market, accompanied by serious health consequences—cardiovascular issues, organ damage, and priapism, which can cause permanent erectile dysfunction if not treated promptly. Authorities must act swiftly to curb this growing menace.

Aigbodu Osas was confident—a sociable, employed 28-year-old in a steady relationship. But one jest—his partner’s remark that her ex “used to last longer”—pierced his confidence. Unable to sleep, he purchased a bright-blue sex enhancer, and the effect that night was intoxicating. Encouraged, he continued using various herbal and pharmaceutical boosters until one evening he awoke to a terrifying, unrelenting erection—priapism. That night lasted three hours; the next, five. Though he quit the boosters, the damage had begun: his natural performance declined, his relationship unraveled, and he later struggled with climax. Medical tests revealed his overstimulated system was now dulled; today, Osas is still recovering mentally and physically.

Meanwhile, 34-year-old Ajeibi, mother of three, sought to revive intimacy after childbirth. Encouraged by friends, she used vaginal tightening creams and herbal mixes. The first signs of increased attention offered hope; soon, however, came irritation, itching, unusual discharge, bleeding—and hospital diagnosis of inflammation, micro-tears, and infection. The products meant to heal her marriage inflicted injury instead.

For Bala Isa, insecurity rooted in teenage teasing about his body resurfaced in adulthood. He applied a painful herbal tightening regimen, believing the discomfort meant it was working. Weeks later, he experienced numbness and was diagnosed with early nerve damage and chemical irritation—his sexual function at risk. Despite this, he remains trapped in the search for validation.

These three stories highlight a broader crisis: unregulated sex-enhancement products bought through streets, kiosks, WhatsApp and DMs pose real dangers. Studies show growing use of traditional medicine for sexual purposes—driven by infertility, partner satisfaction, or increased libido—particularly in northern Nigeria.

Medical authorities say only around 500 cardiologists serve Nigeria’s 200-million-plus population, limiting care for those harmed. Counterfeit Viagra and sildenafil sold without prescription are especially dangerous. Lab tests in Port Harcourt found heavy metals in herbal enhancers; prolonged use of testosterone boosters may induce infertility or accelerate undetected prostate cancer. Moreover, misuse can result in kidney failure, priapism, and in the long term, actual erectile dysfunction—symptoms that often manifest 10–20 years later.

Doctors warn that tolerance to enhancers can lead to higher dosages and dangerous combinations. Psychological factors—stress, relationship pressures, unrealistic sexual expectations pushed by advertising—fuel demand. Lack of open sex education, empathy in relationships, and professional consultation make the issue worse. Psychologists advocate prioritizing emotional intimacy, better communication, exercise, and seeking medical or therapy support. Quick fixes with pills or creams, they say, ultimately mask deeper issues and dismantle trust.