Key facts
- Occasional erection problems are common and usually nothing to worry about.
- If it keeps happening, see a GP or a sexual health clinic.
- Causes include stress, tiredness, alcohol, some medicines, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, depression and hormone problems.
- Treatment works best when any underlying cause is found and treated too.
What erectile dysfunction is
Erectile dysfunction (ED) means regularly finding it hard to get or keep an erection firm enough for sex. Most men have trouble with erections now and then, often because of stress, tiredness or drinking too much alcohol. It's when it keeps happening that it's worth getting advice.
Common causes
ED is usually linked to something physical, something psychological, or a mix of both.
- Physical causes include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, hormone problems and the side effects of some medicines.
- Psychological causes include stress, anxiety, depression and relationship difficulties.
- Lifestyle factors such as drinking a lot of alcohol, smoking and being very tired can all play a part.
When to get help
See a GP or go to a sexual health clinic if erection problems keep happening. It might be a sign of a health condition that can be treated, and a GP can check things like your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause. It may include medicines, changes to other medicines you take, talking therapies or devices. See our treatment overview and options beyond medication.