What should you know about Crohn's disease and erectile dysfunction?

Erection depends on blood flow, nerve signals, hormones, mood, and relationship context. Active bowel symptoms, pain, poor sleep, low energy, or concern about symptoms can reduce sexual confidence and desire. Some medicines may also affect sexual function, so do not stop prescribed treatment without discussing it.

Other contributors can include Depression, Hypertension, Obesity, or Type 2 Diabetes. Erectile difficulty and Loss of Libido are different: an erection problem can occur even when desire is present, while low desire can occur without an erection problem.

Arrange a GP Consultation if the problem is recurring, distressing, or began after a medicine change. Bring a complete medicine and supplement list, and mention erections on waking, sexual desire, pain, mood, sleep, alcohol, smoking, and current bowel symptoms.

A clinician may check blood pressure and request a Blood Test for relevant causes. Diabetes Screening may be considered when symptoms or personal risk make it appropriate. Treatments should be chosen after checking your health and medicines; avoid unregulated sexual-health products.

Seek urgent help for an erection that is painful or does not settle, chest pain or severe breathlessness during sexual activity, sudden neurological symptoms, or severe dehydration during a bowel flare.

Ask whether Crohn's activity or a medicine could contribute, which health checks are needed, whether a prescribed erectile-dysfunction treatment is safe with your medicines, and when to review progress.