Erectile dysfunction
Background to erectile dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction (ED) occurs when a man either cannot achieve an erection or cannot satisfactorily maintain an erection to completion of intercourse.
There are many possible causes:
- The most common cause is related to the blood vessels, with conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, peripheral arterial disease and diabetes potentially affecting the ability of the blood vessels in the penis to achieve and/or maintain an erection.
- certain surgeries and radiotherapies.
- damage to the nervous system locally, or conditions like MS or Parkinson’s that affect the central nervous system (brain and spine)
- physical abnormalities of the penis, prostate and other surrounding tissues
- “psychogenic” causes such as situational or performance anxiety, or more generalised mental health conditions that affect sexual functioning
What is the impact of ED?
- An inability to maintain an erection can affect a man’s confidence and self-esteem, leading to anxiety and other mental health issues.
- ED can affect interpersonal intimate relationships because of the impact of ED on the sexual aspect of these relationships.
- While ED can be caused by many of the conditions above, it can also be a precursor or warning sign for them as well, particularly in the case of cardiovascular disease.
Treatments
- All oral treatments for ED must be obtained via a pharmacist or other healthcare professional. These can be discussed and prescribed by our clinicians, if they feel this is appropriate.
- Other treatment options can include vacuum devices.
For more information
Visit the NHS website
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