Erectile Dysfunction Information

What is erectile dysfunction (ED)?

Erectile dysfunction (or ED) describes a man’s inability to achieve and/or maintain a penile erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse as part of a normal sexual relationship.

How common is ED?

Erectile dysfunction is a very common condition affecting over 50% of men to some degree. Half of men ages 40-70 have experienced this condition to some degree, yet only a small number seek help from their doctors.

Is erectile dysfunction the same as male impotence?

Our experts believe that the term "male impotence" should no longer be used as it is a pejorative phrase, and it's use may help to increase the symptoms of psychological distress in males with ED.

Who might benefit from treatment?

Patients differ widely in their symptoms of ED, from "complete erectile failure all the time" to "I only have a problem occasionally". The important factor in deciding on treatment, is whether it is affecting your relationship with your partner or affecting your psychological health and wellbeing.

There is a recognised International rating scale to ascertain the degree of ED. The IIED-5. This is also useful in comparing your response to different treatments.

Can ED have an effect on psychological health and well-being?

Yes. Sufferers from ED frequently show symptoms of general anxiety, performance anxiety, loss of confidence, lowered self esteem, relationship problems and depression.

What causes erectile dysfunction?

As well as increasing age, there are a large number of medical conditions both physical and psychological, plus a large number of prescribed medicines, which can cause ED. If you have only recently developed ED since starting a new medication it would be worth discussing this with your doctor before starting treatment with ED drugs, as a change in medication may often resolve the problem.

How is erectile dysfunction treated?

In nearly all cases ED can be treated.

Treatment with appropriate doses of ED medication, in particular the PDE5 inhibitors Viagra, Cialis or Levitra, will bring about a significant improvement in the symptoms of ED and assist in restoring erectile function and psychological symptoms to normal in the vast majority of cases.

There are a number of other treatments available, including local injections into the penis, intraurethral medication, mechanical devices e.g. vacuum pumps, and surgical implants. Psychological support e.g. counselling and alternative therapies e.g. hypnotherapy may also be helpful.