What is erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction is a common disorder

Erectile dysfunction (or ED), commonly referred to as ‘impotence’, is defined as the consistent inability to achieve and/or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse. Erectile dysfunction is a common male sexual disorder and responds to treatment about 95% of the time.*

Although psychology can play a major role in sexual function and desire, most erectile conditions have an underlying physical cause. You can take our self-assessment quiz to help you identify issues. These issues should be talked about with your doctor. Although the terms ‘erectile dysfunction’ and ‘impotence’ can be used interchangeably, ‘erectile dysfunction’ is preferable to ‘impotence’ because its definition is more precise.

It is important to note that failing to achieve and/or maintain an erection just once or very infrequently does not necessarily indicate erectile dysfunction. Factors like stress and alcohol consumption could be at play. For erectile dysfunction to be diagnosed, the condition has to be consistent and recurring.

Who is most at risk of developing erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction can occur at any age, but is more common among men over the age of 65. An estimated 5% of 40-year-old men experience erectile dysfunction, compared to 15-25% of 65-year-olds. Fortunately, erectile dysfunction is treatable at all ages and many men can have normal erections well into their eighties. Men who smoke or use alcohol excessively do increase their risk of being affected by erectile dysfunction, as do those with high blood pressure or diabetes.

How does erectile dysfunction affect men?

The severity of erectile dysfunction ranges from mild to severe (complete loss of erectile function). Men who believe they are affected by impotence (erectile dysfunction) can experience low self-esteem, performance anxiety, depression, stress, guilt and relationship problems. Without treatment, these psychological factors can compound the physical causes of erectile dysfunction.

Erectile dysfunction affects partners too

Erectile dysfunction can be harmful to a relationship, affecting the man’s self image, his partner’s self-image, their relationship with each other and how they view one another. In order for the treatment of erectile dysfunction to be effective, couples need to communicate honestly and openly with each other. Discussing the condition and confronting any concerns that either partner may have are critical for a relationship to remain a healthy one.

Talk to your doctor

A physical exam and medical and sexual history are necessary for effective assessment and treatment of erectile dysfunction. It is very important that you tell your doctor if you’re experiencing erectile dysfunction, as it can be a precursor to other, serious conditions like heart disease. Identifying heart disease early on could very well save your life. Talk to your doctor about what evaluation and possible treatments are most appropriate in your case. You should always check with your doctor before taking any medication. Your doctor is always your best source of medical information.

*American Medical Association, the AMA Health Insight page, Understanding erectile dysfunction, American Medical Association website, available at  www.ama-assn.org/insight/speccon/sexdysf/sexdysf.htm, accessed 3 October 2000