Difficulty getting or maintaining an erection
All psychiatric servicesArea of care
Erectile Difficulties
Confidential assessment when getting or maintaining an erection has become difficult or inconsistent.
Confidential English and Hindi Detailed assessment
Understanding the concern
The experience matters as much as the label.
Erectile difficulties may involve physical health, medicines, alcohol or tobacco use, sleep, stress, performance anxiety, mood or relationship factors. A careful assessment helps avoid assuming that the concern is purely physical or purely psychological.
You do not need to identify the condition yourself before consulting. Begin with what has changed, how long it has continued and how it is affecting everyday life.
Erections that vary by situation
Worry before or during intimacy
Avoidance, embarrassment or relationship strain
What assessment considers
A symptom can have more than one explanation.
The pattern
When symptoms began, their frequency, severity and effect on work, study, sleep or relationships.
Health and medicines
Physical illness, prescribed medicines, substances and relevant investigations where needed.
Life context
Recent changes, stress, family observations, support systems and the person’s own priorities.
Safety and urgency
Any immediate concern involving self-harm, severe agitation, confusion or inability to remain safe.
How care may help
A treatment plan should make sense in real life.
Care is decided after assessment. Depending on the concern, it may include clear explanations, practical changes, psychotherapy guidance, medication or coordination with another specialist.
Questions people often ask before consulting
Can anxiety cause erectile difficulties?
Yes. Worry and self-monitoring can interrupt arousal, although physical and medication-related causes should also be considered.
Will tests be required?
Not always. Relevant investigations may be suggested after considering age, symptoms, health history and current medicines.
Urgent help: If there is immediate danger, suicidal intent, severe confusion, violent behaviour or inability to remain safe, contact local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency department.