Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to get or maintain an erection. It is a very common condition.
It can have a range of causes, both physical (such as age, narrowing of blood vessels, diabetes, hormonal problems, surgery, injury, medication side effect) and psychological (for example, anxiety, depression, relationship problems).
Sometimes it only occurs in certain situations, for example only with a sexual partner but not during solo sex. If this is the case, it is likely the underlying cause of erectile dysfunction is psychological (stress related).
If you are unable to get an erection under any circumstances, it is more likely that there are underlying physical causes.
Treatments for ED may include lifestyle changes, medication and / or psychological or sex therapy.
Assessment of erectile dysfunction
We can provide talking therapy to help with the psychological side of things (see how to access psychosexual therapy).
We are not able to do a physical medical assessment / tests or prescribe medication for erectile dysfunction. Your GP can help and may wish to do the following:
- Blood test for: 9am Testosterone level, TSH (thyroid), Prolactin, HBA1c, Lipids
- Blood pressure
- Cardiovascular risk assessment
- Genital examination
- Prescribe medicines such as Sildenafil (Viagra) or Tadalafil (Cialis), if suitable for you
Links / resources
- Erectile dysfunction (impotence) – the NHS website
Information on what ED is, possible causes and lifestyle advice. - I can’t get hard – Relate
Information on erection problems and how this can sometimes relate to stress and anxiety from work or home, relationship problems, sexual ‘performance’ anxiety, sexual boredom or alcohol. - Mojo Men
Online self help and support for men with erectile dysfunction, with videos from experts and patients who experience this. - Kegel exercises for erectile dysfunction – YouTube
Kegel exercise guide, led by a pelvic floor physiotherapist. - The Penis Book by Aaron Spitz – Bookshop.org UK
Written by a urologist to explain everything you need to know about the penis, how it functions, what can go wrong, and how to help. Also available from other retailers.