Sexual Problems

Definition

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to develop and maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse or sexual activity.

Background

Erection difficulties are common and there are a number of causes including tiredness, stress, excess alcohol, diabetes, certain medications and certain other conditions including deficiency of the male sex hormone testosterone.

35-75% of all men with diabetes have difficulty with their erections, the incidence increasing with age. Men with diabetes can have any of the difficulties that affect other individuals but diabetes itself can cause nerve and blood vessel damage that leads to erection problems.

Whilst symptoms may be worrying for individuals it is important to remember that 60-98% of people respond to treatment (depending on the treatment chosen).

For further information on causes:

See ED Help

On ED in General:

See ED Help

Assessment

Please click on the link above to download the assessment

Treatment

Please click on the link above to download the treatment

Referrals

If treatment options fail, referral to a specialist clinic should be considered.

Treatment Options

Patients are given the choice of:

Tadalafil (Cialis)

Vardenafil (Levitra)

Apomorphine (Uprima)

Alprostadil intracavernosal injections

MUSE(intraurethral alprostadil)

Mechanical devices:

Vacuum devices and Rings

Referral for surgical options if suitable/desired.

For further information on treatments click here

This link covers all treatments including surgery

Information Sheets

Getting the most out of viagra

Priapism Patient Advice Sheet

Advice for patients using vacuum devices