Erectile dysfunction: causes, health links and when to get help

Erectile dysfunction (ED) means that you cannot get or keep an erection that is firm enough for sex. An occasional erection problem is common. Tiredness, stress, or too much alcohol can cause it. If the problem continues, it can be a sign that you need a health check.

What can cause erectile dysfunction?

An erection depends on blood flow, nerves, hormones, thoughts, and emotions. A problem in one or more of these areas can cause ED.

Possible physical causes include:

high blood pressure or high cholesterol
diabetes
hormone problems
side effects from some medicines
conditions that affect blood vessels or nerves
smoking, high alcohol intake, or low physical activity

Stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship problems can also cause or worsen ED. Sometimes, a physical problem starts the symptoms and anxiety then makes them continue.

Do not stop a prescribed medicine because you think that it causes ED. Speak to your GP or pharmacist first. They can review the medicine and tell you if a safe alternative is available.

Why a health check is important

ED is not only a sexual problem. Blood vessel conditions can affect blood flow to the penis. Diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol can also affect erections.

If ED keeps happening, contact your GP or a sexual health clinic. A clinician can ask about your symptoms, medicines, general health, and emotional wellbeing. They can also check your blood pressure and decide if you need blood tests or other checks.

This assessment helps to find a possible cause. It also helps the clinician select a safe treatment.

What treatment can help?

The correct treatment depends on the cause and your health. A clinician can discuss:

changes to smoking, alcohol use, activity, sleep, or weight
treatment for an underlying condition
support for anxiety, depression, or relationship concerns
medicines that improve blood flow to the penis
other options, such as a vacuum pump

Medicines for ED are not suitable for all people. Some medicines can interact with ED treatment. Always answer the consultation questions accurately and tell the clinician about all medicines that you use.

Do not buy prescription medicine from an unregistered website or social media account. A regulated pharmacy must complete the correct checks before it supplies prescription treatment.

When should you get help?

Speak to a GP or sexual health clinic if erection problems keep happening. You should also get advice if you have pain, a change in the shape of your penis, reduced sexual desire, or other new symptoms.

Call 999 if you have signs of a medical emergency, such as chest pain or severe breathing difficulty. Do not use an online consultation for emergency care.

What can you do now?

Write down when the problem started, whether it happens every time, and any recent change in your health or medicine. This information can help a clinician understand the problem.

ED can feel difficult to discuss, but clinicians speak about it often. A clear and honest conversation is the best first step.

Sources

Sources accessed on 2 September 2026.