doctor's office and impotence

What will happen in the doctor's office?
Talking about ED can be difficult. You might use a phrase like "I've been having problems in the bedroom" or "I've been having erection problems." Remember that a healthy sex life is part of a healthy life. Don't feel embarrassed about seeking help. ED is a medical problem, and your doctor treats medical problems every day.

If the interaction with your doctor doesn't put you at ease, ask for a referral to another doctor. Your doctor may send you to a urologist-a doctor who specializes in sexual and urologic problems.

Your partner may want to come with you to see the doctor. Many doctors say ED is easier to treat when both partners are involved.

To find the cause of your ED, your doctor will take a complete medical history and do a physical examination.

Medical History
Your doctor will ask general questions about your health, as well as specific questions about your erection problems and your relationship with your partner. Bring a list of all the medications you take, or bring them with you to show to your doctor. Tell your doctor about any surgery you have had.

Your doctor will ask about habits like alcohol use, smoking, and exercise.

Your doctor might ask you questions like

How do you rate your confidence that you can get and keep an erection?


When you have erections with sexual stimulation, how often are your erections hard enough for penetration?


During sexual intercourse, how often are you able to maintain your erection after you have penetrated (entered) your partner?


When you attempt sexual intercourse, how often is it satisfactory for you?


How would you rate your level of sexual desire?


How often are you able to reach climax and have an ejaculation?


Do you have an erection when you wake up in the morning?

The answers to these questions will help your doctor understand the problem.

Physical Exam
A physical exam can help your doctor find the cause of your ED. As part of the exam, the doctor will examine your testes and penis, take your blood pressure, and check your reflexes. A blood sample will be taken to test for diabetes, cholesterol level, and other conditions that may be associated with ED.