In addition to problems with getting a satisfactory erection, ED can lead to emotional and psychological problems too, including feelings of shame and guilt. In some cases, ED can lead to a loss of intimacy that affects the mental well-being of both partners.
This article discusses the signs and symptoms of erectile dysfunction. It also mentions several ejaculation-related conditions that often occur alongside ED, as well as when you should see your doctor.
Frequent Symptoms
Erectile dysfunction is a common problem among men, affecting some 30 million men in the United States. ED typically develops over time. But it can happen suddenly for what seems like no reason at all.
The main symptoms of erectile dysfunction are:
Difficulty getting an erection: The inability to get a firm enough erection to have sex when you desire it—OR—Difficulty keeping an erection: The inability to keep an erection firm for long enough to complete sex or truly enjoy it
Frequency of your erection issues is what defines the difference between having ED and not. Having symptoms from time to time, rather than often, is typically not a sign of erectile dysfunction.
For many men, ED also causes emotional and psychological distress. ED can affect your relationships and your self-esteem, and may lead to feelings of guilt, embarrassment, shame, or other difficult emotions.
Associated Conditions
Some men with ED have problems with ejaculating (ejaculatory dysfunction), while others are able to ejaculate one or more times during sexual intercourse.
Erectile dysfunction and ejaculatory dysfunction are the two most common sexual difficulties in men. They are separate disorders, however, that often occur together.
Types of ejaculatory dysfunction include:
Premature ejaculation: When a man ejaculates within minutes of penetration or sooner than he and his partner would like Delayed ejaculation: When a man is unable to ejaculate within a reasonable timeframe of sexual stimulation Retrogade ejaculation: When a man is able to reach sexual climax, but his semen goes into his bladder rather than exiting through his penis Anejaculation: When a man is unable to ejaculate semen
Other physical conditions that may or may not occur alongside ED include:
Reduced libido or sex drive Anorgasmia, or failure to become aroused after sufficient stimulation A dysfunction in the pelvic floor muscles Trauma to the pelvis, such as pelvic fractures Low testosterone levels
Complications
Erectile dysfunction can affect your mental health and wellbeing, along with that of your partner. It can lead to such complications as:
Unfulfilled sex lifeLoss of intimacy with your partnerA strained relationship with your partnerDepression, anxiety, low self-esteemInability to get a female partner pregnant
These complications can both contribute to ED symptoms and happen as a result of them.
If you are experiencing ED, getting professional help can prevent you from falling into a cycle of physical and psychological ED symptoms.
Fortunately, almost all cases of erectile dysfunction are treatable.
When to See a Healthcare Provider
If you have difficulty getting or keeping an erectile on occasion—for example, after a night of drinking or a stressful work day—you probably don’t need to worry. Most men experience this at one point or another.
But if getting or keeping an erection is something that occurs 25% of the time or more, then you could have ED and should consider seeing a healthcare provider.
In addition, if symptoms are consistently getting worse, there could be a physical cause that should be investigated.
It’s also time to get professional help if:
You have anxiety about your ability to get or keep an erectionYour symptoms are creating an issue between you and your sexual partnerGetting an erection is painful
Summary
Erectile dysfunction is defined as an inability to get or keep an erection 25% of the time or more. Aside from these physical symptoms, it can also cause emotional and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and lost self-esteem.
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Several disorders can happen alongside erectile dysfunction, including premature ejaculation and reduced sex drive. If your symptoms are becoming a regular issue, causing you anxiety, or creating tension in your relationship, make an appointment to see a healthcare provider.
A Word From Verywell
Despite how common erectile dysfunction is, many men feel deeply uncomfortable talking about it with their sexual partner(s). Being unable to talk about your needs can only place further stress on your relationship and yourself.
Be honest and open with your partner when discussing your ED. Listen to what they have to say. And if intercourse is not an option, explore other exciting ways to give and receive sexual pleasure—together.
Ability to get an erection sometimes when you want to have sex, but not alwaysAbility to get an erection but unable to keep itUnable to get an erection under any circumstance
