Erectile dysfunction (impotence) is the inability to get and keep an erection firm enough for sex.  Having erection trouble from time to time isn't necessarily a cause for concern. If erectile dysfunction is an ongoing issue, however, it can cause stress, affect your self-confidence and contribute to relationship problems. Problems getting or keeping an erection can also be a sign of an underlying health condition that needs treatment and it is a risk factor for heart disease.

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Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction

The main symptoms include:

• Difficulty getting an erection

• Difficulty maintaining an erection during sexual activity

• Reduced sexual desire (libido)

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Occasional trouble with erections isn't necessarily ED. Persistent or frequent problems, however, may indicate ED.

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Causes of Erectile Dysfunction

ED can be caused by physical, psychological, or lifestyle factors:

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Physical causes:

• Heart disease or clogged blood vessels (atherosclerosis)

• Diabetes

• High blood pressure

• Obesity

• Low testosterone

• Neurological disorders (e.g., Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis)

• Certain medications (e.g., antidepressants, blood pressure drugs)

• Smoking, alcohol, or drug use

• Injury to the penis or pelvic area

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Psychological causes:

• Stress

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Relationship problems

• Performance anxiety

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Treatment Options at The Fraternity

Oral Medications (PDE5 Inhibitors)

These increase blood flow:

• Sildenafil (Viagra)

• Tadalafil (Cialis)

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Injections

• BiMix Injection

• TriMix Injection

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Hormone Therapy

If blood tests show low testosterone, testosterone replacement therapy might be considered.

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