Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

When achieving or maintaining an erection becomes challenging

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the ongoing difficulty to achieve or maintain an adequate erection during sexual intercourse. It is a common problem: according to research, 52% of men between 40 and 70 years old experience it4.

The condition and its symptoms

What is Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction refers to difficulty in getting or keeping an erection firm enough for sexual activity3.
The process of getting an erection is complex; it involves psychological factors , and is coordinated by the endocrine, nervous, and vascular systems that work together2.
For this reason, erectile dysfunction can result from various physical, psychological, and lifestyle conditions3. Common causes may include:

Depression or other mental health conditions3

Stress or significant life events3

Performance-related anxiety3

Cardiovascular or circulatory conditions3

Smoking

Involving your partner

Since erectile dysfunction can influence relationship dynamics, involving the partner may facilitate the management process and improve treatment outcomes.

Helping with diagnosis

Erectile dysfunction can sometimes be associated with relational factors. Involving your partner in medical consultations may help the clinician gain a more comprehensive understanding of the situation and tailor the treatment accordingly.

Man sitting on the edge of the bed with his head in his hand, representing despair, stress, or the psychological burden of a health condition

Checking how treatment works

Your partner may notice changes in your symptoms or how well treatment is working.

Close-up of a couple sitting apart on a sofa with focus on the man's tense arm, symbolizing emotional distance and the impact of intimate health issues on relationships

Who experiences Erectile Dysfunction

Research has shown that erectile dysfunction is common worldwide4.

 

A study conducted in Massachusetts found that more than half of men aged 40 to 70 experience erectile dysfunction4. The percentage varies, and when there are no physical causes, it increases with age4.

 

Beyond the patient’s age, erectile dysfunction also is associated with other common risk factors.

Common risk factors of erectile dysfunction:

Obesity4

Diabetes4

Sedentary lifestyle4

Smoking4

High level of blood fats4

The causes of Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction is a complex issue with many possible causes,
not always physical and not always easy to pinpoint4

Cause

Problems with blood flow or nerves

  • High blood pressure
  • Heart conditions
  • Smoking
  • History of stroke
  • Brain or spinal cord cancer
  • Multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease

Cause

Physical changes to the penis

  • Birth defects of the urethra (the tube that carries urine)
  • Peyronie’s Disease
  • Penile cancer

Cause

Hormone imbalances

  • Thyroid problems
  • Too much testosterone
  • Hormonal changes related to stress
  • Disorders involving other endocrine glands

Data about Erectile Dysfunction

A survey by the European Association of Urology studied how well people in Europe understand erectile dysfunction5.

Close-up of a woman comforting a man with a gentle touch on his arm, symbolizing emotional support, empathy, and partnership during health challenges

26%

Have never talked to anyone about the problem

34%

Give the wrong definition of erectile dysfunction

17%

Say they don’t know what erectile dysfunction is

Diagnosing the disease

Professional medical evaluation is essential for diagnosing erectile dysfunction.

During the consultation, a healthcare professional will collect a detailed medical and sexual history, including an assessment of lifestyle factors that may contribute to erectile dysfunction, such as diet, physical activity, smoking, alcohol consumption, and stress levels. When appropriate, a partner may be invited to support the discussion.

 

A physical examination may be performed, which can include assessment of the genital area and cardiovascular health when appropriate. Laboratory tests may be requested in selected cases (e.g. hormone levels such as testosterone, blood glucose).

 

In fact, erectile dysfunction can occasionally represent an early indicator of an underlying health condition, which is why a comprehensive clinical evaluation is essential.

Smiling male doctor writing on a clipboard, representing professional medical support and patient care

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At IBSA, we approach uro-gynecological conditions with the sensitivity and expertise they deserve. Our solutions are grounded in rigorous research, designed for patient comfort, and supported by comprehensive education.

 

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References

  • 1 / Yafi FA, Jenkins L, Albersen M, Corona G, Isidori AM, Goldfarb S, Maggi M, Nelson CJ, Parish S, Salonia A, Tan R, Mulhall JP, Hellstrom WJ. Erectile dysfunction. Nat Rev Dis Primers. 2016 Feb 4;2:16003. doi: 10.1038/nrdp.2016.3.
  • 2 / Wang CM, Wu BR, Xiang P, Xiao J, Hu XC. Management of male erectile dysfunction: From the past to the future. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2023 Feb 27;14:1148834. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1148834.
  • 3 / Leslie SW, Sooriyamoorthy T. Erectile Dysfunction. [Updated 2024 Jan 9]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-.

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