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module menu icon About erectile dysfunction

About erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition, with 42.6% of men aged 18 years and over in the United Kingdom reporting difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection during a 6-month period.1

A number of things can cause or contribute to the development of ED including:

  • Risk factors
  • Underlying health problems
  • Certain medications.

Click on the headings below to find out more.

RISK FACTORS FOR ED2-5
  • Ageing
  • Lack of exercise
  • Obesity
  • Smoking
  • High cholesterol
  • Metabolic syndrome
UNDERLYING HEALTH PROBLEMS5-9
  • Cardiovascular disease (CVD)
  • Hypertension
  • Diabetes
  • Alcohol dependence
  • Psychological issues such as depression, performance issues, low self-esteem and relationship problems
MEDICATION SIDE EFFECTS9
  • Hypertension (e.g. thiazide diuretics and beta-blockers)
  • Prostate cancer (e.g. anti-androgens and luteinising hormone-releasing hormone agonists and antagonists)
  • Pain (e.g. opiates)
  • Psychological conditions (e.g. tricyclic antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, benzodiazepines and antipsychotics)

Impact of ED

ED can have a profound impact on the quality of life of men, negatively affecting their emotional and psychological wellbeing and self-esteem, as well as their relationships.10

The sexual and emotional lives of partners are also negatively impacted by ED, leading to significant relationship difficulties and distress.11,12

Effective treatment for ED can:

  • Significantly improve sexual satisfaction for men and their partners13-17
  • Increase sexual self-confidence,18 resulting in better relationships16,19
  • Greatly enhance quality of life.20,21