Highlights
- In many cases, erectile dysfunction is treatable with the right help.
- Erectile dysfunction (ED) may have physical or psychological causes.
- Talking to a doctor who treats erectile dysfunction may uncover an underlying health issue.
- Your primary care provider can refer you to another specialist to give you the best ED care.
- Depending on the reason for your ED, you may need to see a urologist, endocrinologist, cardiologist, neurologist, or psychologist.
- eDrugstore offers free telemedical consultations for men with ED.
Erectile dysfunction is one of those things you hope never to worry about. When it happens, talking about ED with a doctor will help you go back to the sex life you’re used to. But which doctor treats erectile dysfunction? It depends on what’s causing your condition.
What’s Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction is the inability to get an erection. If your penis loses its hardness during intercourse and you can’t continue lovemaking, you may also have ED — just a milder version of it.
If these “accidents” happen from time to time, it’s not a cause for concern. Should they become more frequent, seek medical help. Your penis is not a robot, so if you’re tired, didn’t get much sleep, or are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, erection may not be possible.
What’s Causing Your ED?
There’s no one cause of erectile dysfunction. Each case should be treated individually. ED happens for physical or psychological reasons, or it can be a mix of both. Here are some of the common causes of ED in men:
- Age. Men who are older are more likely to have ED. Erectile function is connected to general health status, hormonal changes, reduced mobility, medication, and other age-related factors.
- Cardiovascular conditions. Your penis needs good blood flow to function as designed by nature. If you have heart or cardiovascular issues, your erections may be too weak for intercourse, or you may not be getting them at all.
- Diabetes. This common disease often leads to ED. Men with diabetes develop erectile difficulties earlier compared to healthy men. To get your sexual function back, get your sugar levels under control.
- Mental health issues. For some men, ED is caused more by the mind than the body. High levels of stress can wreak havoc on your well-being, and that includes erections. Other psychological concerns, such as depression or performance anxiety, can also lead to sexual difficulties.
Why You Should Talk to a Doctor About ED
While you may feel ashamed to talk to someone about intimate concerns, the sooner you find a doctor who treats erectile dysfunction, the better. With ED, there’s more at stake than bedroom satisfaction. What’s happening to your genitals can be a sign of a serious health issue. Catching it early can save your health — and possibly your life.
It’s always a good idea to get regular health checkups. Sometimes doctors don’t ask about sexual health, but if you have any questions, this is the time to ask them. Your primary care provider can refer you to a specialist who will help you with ED and its underlying problems.
Finding a Doctor Who Treats Erectile Dysfunction
What do you do when you have a health problem, say, pain in your stomach? You would probably see your family physician to find out what’s going on.
The same rule applies to sexual concerns. The first step is to make an appointment with a primary care provider. Sometimes he or she will be able to make a diagnosis right away, and give you a prescription for ED medication, such as Viagra, Cialis, or Levitra.
If your doctor suspects an underlying cause of erection difficulties, he or she may suggest a visit to a specialist, such as:
- Urologist. This is a medical specialization that focuses on men’s sexual and urinary health. Your provider may suggest a consultation with a urologist for more complex cases of ED. Urologists also treat prostate problems.
- Endocrinologist. This is a doctor who can diagnose and help manage diabetes and other hormonal issues that may be affecting your genital health.
- Cardiologist. This doctor can examine your heart and diagnose problems with blood circulation. ED is often a sign of a cardiovascular condition. Getting the right treatment can prevent a heart attack or stroke in the future.
- Neurologist. In rare cases, erectile dysfunction may be linked to your nervous system. Conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and spinal cord injuries often lead to the impairment of erectile function. In some cases, erectile dysfunction medications may not be effective, but your doctor can suggest other solutions to treat your sexual concerns.
- Psychologist or psychiatrist. If your erectile dysfunction is caused by stress, depression, or anxiety, seeing a specialized doctor or counselor will help you manage your emotions. Couples counseling may also be useful if relationship problems contribute to your bedroom challenges.
How to Find a Good Doctor For Your ED
If you don’t have a dedicated primary care provider, or the cause of your erectile dysfunction is more complex, try to ask friends and relatives for recommendations of trusted physicians in your area. Online forums and doctor reviews are another possible source of references.
Some professional associations and health institutions maintain databases of doctors who specialize in treating specific conditions. They also offer materials and videos about health conditions and treatments. Here are some respected organizations to consult:
Get Erectile Dysfunction Treatment Today
In today’s overburdened health system, it’s not always easy to get an appointment, even with a primary care provider. Don’t wait too long if you suspect ED. If an in-person visit is difficult, try telemedicine.
eDrugstore works with a team of U.S.- licensed physicians who can provide complimentary consultations for erectile dysfunction. In most cases, we will issue your prescription and you’ll be able to order medication immediately. Delivery is discreet and always free. Learn more about our selection of ED medications.
Anka Grzywacz is a sexologist, reproductive health expert and Certified Sex Coach™. In her online practice she helps busy women and couples solve their intimate problems.