Erectile dysfunction: Finding the treatment that’s right for you

Erectile dysfunction (ED) refers to men having trouble achieving and/or keeping a firm erection. It’s a common problem that isn’t always easy to talk about. At UW Health, urologists create a safe environment to share these issues and assess and treat men experiencing ED. Erectile problems can have many causes. Finding what’s behind yours is the first step in finding treatment that will help you.

A problem that increases with age

Approximately 50% of men in their 50s experience mild or moderate erectile dysfunction. As you age, the number grows. It is expected that 60% of men in their 60s, and 70% of men in their 70s experience some form of ED.

There are several steps you can take to reduce your risk for developing ED:

• Avoid or limit alcohol

• Eat a healthy diet

• Exercise regularly

• Get regular checkups to monitor your blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels

• If you smoke, quit

• Maintain a healthy weight

• Reduce stress

• Seek help for anxiety or depression

• Talk with your doctor about stopping drugs with harmful side effects

Treatment for ED depends on its cause. If erectile problems result from a medical condition, we focus first on treating that condition.

With treatment, ED may improve. Sometimes ED is possible following treatment for other conditions, such as cancer. We work closely with those providing your care to preserve your sexual function and fertility. In all cases, we help you weigh your treatment options.

Our urologists have advanced training in men’s sexual health. They help put you at ease so you can speak freely, without embarrassment. They work with other experts to make sure you get the help that will benefit you most. Psychologists, cardiologists and nutritionists are some of the specialists who might take part in your care at UW Health.

UW Health offers a number of services and information to help you better understand and address ED.