Boots WebMD Partners in Health
Return To Boots

Erectile dysfunction health centre

Select a topic to explore more.
Select An Article

Erectile dysfunction basics

Erectile dysfunction, commonly referred to as ED, or impotence, is the inability to achieve and sustain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse. This condition is not considered normal at any age and is different from other problems that interfere with sexual intercourse, such as lack of sexual desire and problems with ejaculation and orgasm.

How common is ED?

According the NHS, it is estimated that 50% of men between 40 and 70 years of age will experience ED at least once.

What causes ED?

In order to achieve an erection three conditions must occur: The nerves to the penis must be functioning properly; the blood circulation to the penis must be adequate; there must be a stimulus from the brain. If there is something interfering with any or all of these conditions, a full erection will be prevented.

A common problem that affects the majority of men at some point in their life is the occasional failure to achieve an erection. This can occur for a variety of reasons, such as from drinking too much alcohol or from being extremely tired.

Common causes of persistent ED include diseases that affect blood flow, such as atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries); nerve diseases; psychological factors, such as stress, depression and performance anxiety; and injury to the penis. Chronic illness, certain prescription drugs and a condition called Peyronie’s disease (scar tissue in the penis) can also cause ED.

Can ED be prevented?

For people who are at risk of developing ED due to personal behaviour, such as drinking too much alcohol, steps may be taken to prevent its occurrence. However, other causes of ED may not be preventable.

What sort of doctor treats ED?

The type of medical specialist who treats ED will depend on the cause of the problem. Based on your family’s medical history, as well as your own medical history and current health, your GP may treat you with oral drugs. If this fails, they may refer you to a urologist or psychologist.


If you suspect you may have erectile dysfunction, seek medical advice. They can perform a variety of tests to identify what is causing your problem and refer you to a specialist if needed. Once the cause is identified, there are several treatments to consider.

How is erectile dysfunction treated?

There are many different ways ED can be treated, including oral drugs, psychosexual counselling, penile injections, insertions and cream, vacuum pumps, hormone treatment and surgery. Each type of treatment has its own advantages and disadvantages. Talk to your doctor to determine the best treatment for you.

Next Article:

WebMD Medical Reference

Medically Reviewed by Dr Rob Hicks on November 07, 2014

Men's health newsletter

Tips to be strong and healthy.
Sign Up

Popular slideshows & tools on BootsWebMD

woman washing face
Prevent & treat flare-ups
donut on plate
The truth about sugar addiction
female patient consulting with female GP
Take action for a healthy baby
couple watching sunset
How much do you know?
cold sore
Prevent and treat cold sores
smiling african american woman
Best kept secrets of healthy hair
assorted spices
Pump up the flavour with spices
10 tips to lose weight after baby
crossword puzzle
Tips for the first hard days
sperm and egg
Facts to help you get pregnant
african american woman wiping sweat from forehead
Relief from excessive sweating
polka dot dress on hangar
Lose weight without dieting