Understanding erection problems:
A guide for men and their partners
Erection problems, known medically as erectile dysfunction (ED), are among the most common health concerns affecting men in the UK. This page brings together the key information in one place, whether you are looking for yourself or trying to support a partner.
What are erection problems?
Erection problems happen when you cannot get an erection or cannot keep one hard enough to have sex. This can happen occasionally or regularly. It can happen at any age.
Both terms, erection problems and erectile dysfunction, mean the same thing. Your doctor may use the medical term. Either is correct.
A study has shown around 40% of men in their 40s experience erection problems at some point. The condition becomes more common with age, but age alone is not a cause. Erection problems are usually the result of a physical health condition, a psychological factor or a combination of both.
What causes erection problems?
Getting an erection depends on healthy blood flow, functioning nerves and right hormonal balance. Physical health conditions that affect blood flow are the most common cause. These include heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes. Lifestyle factors, including smoking, drinking heavily and being physically inactive, increase the risk.
Psychological causes, such as stress, anxiety and depression, can also play a role. Medication is a less widely known cause. Some antidepressants, beta-blockers and other common prescriptions can affect erections as a side effect.
Who does this affect?
Erection problems affect men of every age, background and relationship status. They are not a sign of low masculinity. They are not a measure of how attracted you are to your partner.
If you are a partner reading this, your feelings matter too. Many partners feel confused, worried or hurt when erection problems go unexplained. A survey of men who experience erectile dysfunction revealed that two thirds of men are most likely to talk to their partners to find a solution for their erection problems1.
Can erection problems be treated?
Yes, erectile dysfunction treatment is effective for the majority of men. Lifestyle changes can help make a difference such as stopping smoking, reducing alcohol, losing weight and exercising regularly.
Viagra Connect® tablets, Viagra Connect® Melts and Avarante® are available to purchase online or in a UK pharmacy without a prescription. These treatments work by supporting the blood flow needed for an erection when you are sexually aroused. None of them will cause an erection on their own. Sexual arousal is needed for them to work.
1Edelman DXI, Viagra Connect – Men & Partners Research Results. February 2022, UK men aged 25–75 years who experience erectile dysfunction (n=500)
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