Disclaimer: This guide is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
If you are experiencing an emergency, go to your nearest hospital or call 000.
What is it?
Erectile dysfunction, also known as ED or impotence, is when a man is unable to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. It’s a common issue, particularly among men over 45, caused by various physical and psychological factors.
ED can significantly affect both a man’s sexual satisfaction and that of his partner. Although it’s more prevalent with age, it can occur at any stage of adulthood and is more likely in individuals with chronic illnesses, obesity, smoking habits, or sedentary lifestyles. Fortunately, effective treatments exist, from lifestyle adjustments to medical interventions. Seek guidance from your doctor, who may also refer you to urologists, psychologists, or sexual health specialists who can offer tailored management strategies.
Causes
Many men face challenges discussing erectile dysfunction with their doctors, often due to cultural taboos, embarrassment, or doubts about treatment efficacy. It’s important to openly address concerns about erectile function and seek appropriate medical guidance to effectively manage the condition and enhance overall quality of life.
ED can be linked to various physical ailments affecting blood flow to the penis, such as:
- diabetes,
- high cholesterol,
- hypertension,
- as well as lifestyle factors such as smoking and obesity.
Psychological stressors like work pressures, relationship difficulties, or financial concerns can also play a significant role.
Often, a combination of physical health issues and psychological factors worsens the condition, as physical difficulties maintaining an erection can lead to anxiety about sexual performance, creating a cycle of worsening symptoms.
Understanding the diverse causes of ED typically requires a thorough assessment by healthcare professionals.
Symptoms
Many people encounter occasional difficulties with erections, which may not necessitate immediate medical attention. However, ongoing issues should prompt a visit to your doctor.
Symptoms may include:
- reoccurring trouble achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for sexual activity.
Physical erectile dysfunction typically develops gradually over time, characterised by a progressive loss of function.
Erectile dysfunction often serves as an early warning sign for underlying health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Seeking medical advice allows for a thorough assessment to uncover any potential medical causes that may require treatment.
Determining whether erectile dysfunction stems from physical or psychological factors guides the appropriate treatment path.
How we can help
We provide a convenient and secure system for you to see a doctor from the comfort of your own home or on the go with your smart device. You can have a video call on-demand by joining the queue for the next available doctor, or schedule an appointment at a time that suits you. We’re open every day, 24 hours a day – including public holidays – because we know illness and injury don’t adhere to conventional practice hours.
Much like a traditional appointment, your telehealth doctor will conduct a comprehensive assessment, including:
- pre-existing conditions, family history and lifestyle.
- preferred treatments and ability to access them.
- individualised advice to treat your condition.
- referrals or scripts at the discretion of the doctor.
Why choose doctors on demand?
Talk to a doctor about erectile dysfunction.
Our patients choose us for a wide variety of reasons, ranging from managing chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, to addressing specific concerns such as hair loss and acne – or simply because they need a medical certificate or referral. Choose from over 150 doctors with a wide range of qualifications, experiences, and fluency in 31 languages to find the right fit for you. All our doctors are registered in Australia by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) for a minimum of 3 years.