diagnosing erectile dysfunction

Diagnosing Erectile Dysfunction

It may be possible for a doctor to diagnose and treat erectile dysfunction in one visit, but follow-up visits may be necessary. Your doctor may want you to return to discuss results of blood tests or other tests - to make sure you understand as much as you can about your condition. Your doctor may also want to talk with your partner or discuss your treatment options with you. While a primary care doctor can usually diagnose and treat erectile dysfunction, in some cases consultation with a specialist such as a urologist or endocrinologist is necessary.

During your initial visit, your doctor will want to confirm the diagnosis of erectile dysfunction, assess the severity of the problem, and identify any treatable conditions that may be linked to your erectile problems - and find possible treatments for them. For most men, this can be done with a basic assessment. In some cases, more involved testing is needed.

To identify what's causing the problem and determine the best treatment for you, your doctor will ask detailed questions about your erectile function and sexual relationships. Talking in depth with your doctor about sex may make you feel anxious or embarrassed. But erectile dysfunction is a common medical condition, and doctors are used to discussing it. Your doctor may even ask directly if you're having any sexual issues during a visit for something else. But if you're having erectile problems, don't hesitate to bring up the issue yourself. Many men don't get the treatment they need because they're reluctant to talk to their doctor.

Your doctor will discuss your concerns and expectations, including why you're seeking help now for the problem, what you think the cause of your erectile dysfunction may be, and what you hope to gain from treatment. Your doctor may also want to get your partner's perspective - by asking you or by talking to your partner directly. Your doctor may have you fill out a questionnaire to help determine the cause of your erectile dysfunction or to assess whether treatment is working.

Your doctor may ask how long you've had the problem and how concerned you and your partner are about it. Your doctor may also ask if you have tried treatment for erectile dysfunction in the past. Your doctor will likely ask if you have had changes in sexual desire and how often you have intercourse.