One of the goals set by the U.S. Pubic Health Service for Healthy People 2010 was to achieve breastfeeding rates of 75% in the newborn period, 50% at 6 months, and 25% at 12 months. Through patient education, I’m happy to report that we are close to the goal for the newborn period. Breastfeeding seems, however, to drop significantly at 3 months. This is likely due to the end of family leave and mother’s return to work. Breastfeeding is NOT recommended for women who use street drugs or excessive alcohol;  are infected with HIV, HTLV, or untreated tuberculosis;  have active varicella or herpes outbreak on the breast, or whose infant has galactosemia. With these exceptions, nearly all women can successfully breastfeed.

Sure, maybe the first time it was nerves. Maybe the second time it was alcohol. Maybe it’s just time for a new girlfriend. But maybe…it’s something else. And more importantly, maybe it could be easily fixed. As with many things, the first step in conquering erectile dysfunction is admitting that there is a problem. About 5% of men in the 40 year-old age group experience consistent, long term ED. About 20% of 60 year-old men and up experience ED. If you can get an erection most of the time and you are in this age-group, then this probably isn’t a problem that requires medication. But if you can’t get an erection 50% + of the time, then it’s probably time to explore your options.