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