What to expect from a GP consultation for erectile dysfunction

You may be asked about erections during sex, on waking and during masturbation, along with sexual desire, ejaculation and orgasm. The GP may also ask about stress, mood, relationships, smoking, alcohol, diabetes, blood pressure, heart symptoms and previous surgery. Questions about symptoms such as reduced energy or urinary changes help identify wider health issues. An examination may include blood pressure, pulses, the abdomen and genital area, with your permission.

Before the visit, list medicines, supplements and health conditions, including medicines for chest pain or blood pressure. Be open about when the difficulty started and whether it is occasional or ongoing. The GP may offer lifestyle guidance, arrange blood tests or discuss a prescribed medicine, counselling or referral. Do not buy unverified sexual-health products or combine erection medicines with nitrate medicines unless a clinician confirms it is safe.

Seek urgent help for chest pain, severe breathlessness, or an erection that is painful or lasts four hours or longer. Arrange a prompt GP review when erectile difficulty begins suddenly with other neurological symptoms, follows an injury, or is accompanied by significant loss of sexual desire or testicular pain.

Ask what may be contributing, whether your current medicines need review, which tests are appropriate, and how to use any treatment safely with your other health conditions.