Erectile difficulty (erectile dysfunction)
इरेक्शन की समस्या
In young men, erectile difficulty is most often due to anxiety. In older men, physical factors such as diabetes, BP and smoking are common. Often both play a part.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MBBS, MD Psychiatry
Common symptoms
- Difficulty getting an erection
- Losing the erection during intercourse
- Morning erections present but problem with partner (suggests anxiety)
- Reduced confidence, avoiding intimacy
Causes
- Performance anxiety, stress, depression
- Diabetes, high BP, cholesterol, obesity
- Smoking, alcohol, opioids
- Some medicines; low testosterone in a few
Risk factors
- Diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking
- Performance anxiety, depression, relationship stress
- Alcohol and some medicines
How it is diagnosed
- History including morning erections — often present when the cause is psychological
- Blood sugar, lipids and testosterone when indicated
Classification: ICD-10 F52.2, N48.4 · ICD-11 HA01.1Male erectile dysfunction (ICD-11 chapter on conditions related to sexual health).
Treatment options
- 1Check-up for sugar, BP, lipids and hormones when indicated
- 2Proven, safe medicines prescribed with correct guidance
- 3Anxiety reduction and sex therapy (sensate focus)
- 4Quitting tobacco/alcohol, exercise, weight control
Psychotherapy and counselling
- Sex therapy: sensate focus exercises and reducing performance pressure
- Couples sessions when relationship stress is involved
Guidance for family
- Partners: avoid blame; ED is common and treatable
When to see a psychiatrist
- Problem lasts more than a few weeks
- You have diabetes, BP or heart disease
- Chest pain with exertion — see a physician first
Thoughts of self-harm or a medical emergency? Call Tele-MANAS 14416 (24×7, free) or 112.
Frequently asked questions
Is the consultation private?
Yes. Consultation is one-to-one by private video, and your details are kept confidential. You can choose Hindi or English.
Are ED medicines safe?
Yes, when prescribed after checking your health and other medicines (they must never be combined with nitrate heart medicines).
Should I try 'gupt rog' medicines from advertisements?
Please avoid them. Many contain hidden steroids or other drugs and can be harmful. Scientific treatment is safer and works better.
Help is available — confidential, in Hindi or English.
Private video consultation from anywhere in India with an Ajmer-based psychiatrist. Psychiatry consultation ₹500.
This page is for education and does not replace a personal consultation. Do not start or stop any medicine without a doctor's advice.