Talking about sex

It is important to remember that many patients with ED find it very difficult to discuss it with their partners, let alone with a healthcare professional. Consequently, healthcare professionals - especially those in primary care such as GPs and practice nurses - should not wait for men to present with ED.

When managing the treatment of patients with conditions that are commonly associated with ED, such as hypertension or diabetes, many GPs and practice nurses are not proactive in their questioning about sexual relations. However, offering patients the opportunity to discuss this issue could be crucial to their health and wellbeing.

Perhaps you can introduce the subject by mentioning ‘Many men with this condition find that they suffer from erection problems,’ or more directly by asking ‘Are you currently experiencing any sexual or relationship problems?’ Either approach means that the patient does not have to highlight the problem himself which may make him feel much more at ease about discussing his ED.

Where possible, and appropriate, a patient’s partner should be encouraged to participate in the diagnostic process. See the section on The Importance of the Partner for more information.