Select a question from the list on the left

My partner has tried impotence treatments before and nothing worked - is there any point in him going back to the GP?

Absolutely. Different men respond in different ways to different treatments. No response on one medication does not mean he won't be successful with another treatment.

Is my partner likely to get erectile dysfunction as he gets older?

Although he is more likely to have erection problems when he gets older, it is not necessarily a natural or unavoidable part of ageing. There are many other factors that can contribute to erectile dysfunction. ED is often a symptom of a serious underlying health problem, such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease. Achieving and keeping an erection involves both physical and psychological responses to stimulation. Whatever he thinks may be causing the problem, it is important that he seeks help and advice from his GP.

What can the GP do?

Erectile dysfunction is nearly always treatable - but it is vital that your partner consults his GP for a thorough consultation and to identify a suitable treatment if necessary. His GP will help get to the root of the problem and advise on the best course of action for him. There are now a wide range of treatments available. With advice from his GP he should be able to find the right treatment for him.

Will ED sort itself out?

Ignoring erectile dysfunction may make it worse, as your partner could increasingly lose confidence in his ability to have sex. It may also mean that any underlying cause of his erection difficulties is going unnoticed. Impotence is nearly always treatable and visiting his GP will enable him to find out what is causing his ED and receive appropriate treatment or a referral to a specialist.

Will age affect my partner's ability to obtain treatment?

Age can increase the risk of developing erectile dysfunction, but it should not be a barrier to treating the condition. Whilst some men and their partners may accept ED as a part of growing old, if you continue to see sex as an important part of your life, then your partner is as entitled to advice and treatment for erectile dysfunction as anybody else.

Will my partner have to pay for treatment?

Your partner can get a private prescription for erectile dysfunction treatments during an NHS consultation, providing your partner's doctor thinks the treatment is suitable for him. Treatments are available on the NHS for men who have certain medical conditions (such as men suffering from prostate cancer or diabetes).