Topic Overview

Your doctor may ask questions about the type of erection problem (erectile dysfunction) you have. Examples include:

• Have you started taking any new medicines recently?
• Do you feel depressed or have a low mood or trouble sleeping?
• Are you having any difficulty or stress in your relationship or marriage?
• Did the erection problem start suddenly?
• How long have you been having erection problems?
• When do you have erections, what are they like, and how long do they last?
• What kind of erections do you have when masturbating?
• Do you have erections in the morning or during the night?
• Have you noticed a change in your desire or sexual interest?
• Have you noticed changes in your orgasms or ejaculation?
• Have you ever had any damage to your pelvic area (including surgery or radiation)?
• Do you have heart disease, vascular disease, or diabetes? Have you ever had a stroke?
• Are you having tremors, large changes in how much you weigh, diarrhea or constipation, or are you suddenly very sensitive to hot or cold temperatures?
• Do you have headaches or problems with your peripheral vision?
• Do you smoke cigarettes?
• Do you drink alcohol? If yes, how much?
• Do you have burning when you urinate or blood in your urine?
• What expectations and motivations affect both you and your partner?