Research has revealed that over half of men suffering from erectile dysfunction (ED) in Oxford are reduced to tears.

The survey, Eroxon, which produces an over the counter ED therapy gel, found that 57 per cent of men in the city admitted that their condition has left them struggling emotionally.

The survey also discovered that 80 per cent of men with the condition admit to feeling shame or embarrassment.

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GP and TV medic Dr Hilary Jones said: "It makes for sad reading as the mental wellbeing of so many men is being impacted by ED, which undoubtedly will have a knock-on effect on so many other areas of their lives.

"Clearly, it’s not just affecting them physically.”

One study found that over a quarter of new ED cases are now diagnosed in men under 40.

The emotional strain extends beyond shame and embarrassment.

Over 70 per cent identified anxiety as their most common challenge concerning their ED, and even found that 100 per cent of men with experience of ED believe it has strained their relationship.

Dr Catherine Hood, a specialist in sexual medicine and psychosexual therapist, said: "Partners may be plagued by nagging doubts about their own attractiveness or suspicions that their partner is finding sexual satisfaction elsewhere.”

Reassuringly, the new data supports this as 83 per cent of the men confirmed that discussing their ED with their partner was beneficial.