You're Offline
The page will automatically refresh once you get online
Erectile dysfunction (impotence) is very common, particularly in men over 40. It's usually nothing to worry about, but see a GP if it keeps happening.
Erectile dysfunction is when you are either:
Depending on the cause, you may still be able to get an erection at other times, such as when you wake up.
Sometimes you might also have low sex drive (loss of libido).
Most men occasionally fail to get or keep an erection.
This is usually caused by stress, tiredness or drinking too much alcohol, and it's nothing to worry about.
It can also be a side effect of some medicines.
If erectile dysfunction happens often, it may be caused by a condition such as:
Healthy lifestyle changes can sometimes help with erectile dysfunction.
lose weight if you're overweight
stop smoking
eat a healthy diet
exercise daily
try to reduce stress and anxiety
do not drink more than 14 units of alcohol a week
do not cycle for a while, if you cycle for more than 3 hours a week
It might be a sign of a health condition that can be treated.
Sexual health clinics treat problems with sexual health. They can provide the same treatment you would get at your GP surgery.
Many sexual health clinics offer a walk-in service, where you do not need an appointment.
They'll often get test results quicker than GP practices.
If you see someone about erectile dysfunction, the doctor or nurse may:
If you have symptoms like needing to pee more often than usual, you may also have an examination of your prostate (rectal examination).
Treatment can usually help improve erectile dysfunction.
The main treatments are medicines that increase the blood flow to your penis, called PDE-5 inhibitors.
These include:
You can get sildenafil on prescription or you can buy it from a pharmacy. You need a prescription for the other types.
You can buy sildenafil (Viagra) over the internet. Be very careful if you do this as many websites sell fake medicines.
Online medicines are not always regulated and the ingredients in them can vary from one pack to another. They can cause unpleasant side effects, or may not be suitable for you.
It's best to see a doctor before buying medicines online. They know your medical history and can discuss whether you might benefit from treatment.
If you choose to buy sildenafil (Viagra) on the internet, make sure:
Vacuum pumps encourage blood to flow to the penis, causing an erection.
They work for most men and can be used if medicine is not suitable or does not work.
They're not always available on the NHS. Speak to a doctor about where to get a vacuum pump.
There are also treatments for some of the causes of erectile dysfunction.
For example:
You can also pay to see a counsellor or therapist privately.
Counsellors and psychotherapists should be a member of the:
Sex therapists should be a member of the:
Relate also offers sex therapy for a fee.
