Definition
Repeated difficulty obtaining or keeping an erection adequate for satisfactory sexual activity.
Symptoms
Insufficient or unstable erections; desire and ejaculation difficulties are distinct problems.
How it may be discovered
Gradual or sudden onset with vascular, hormonal, medication-related or psychological contributors, often combined.
When to seek care
Consult for persistent or distressing difficulties. An erection lasting four hours requires emergency care.
Investigations and tests
Medical and sexual history, examination, cardiovascular assessment and targeted blood tests; selected Doppler.
Reaching a diagnosis
Assessment identifies contributing factors; the cause is not automatically psychological or purely physical.
Treatment options
Risk-factor management, psychosexual support, suitable medicines, vacuum or supervised injections and selected specialist options. PRP remains experimental.
Explore this topic further
Continue with related explanations of how the body works and treatment options.