Is my erectile dysfunction psychological or physical?
Most cases of erectile dysfunction involve a combination of both psychological and physical factors rather than being purely one or the other. Determining which is the primary cause requires a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional, as psychological factors account for only about 10% - 20% of all ED cases, with the remainder typically involving physical causes or a mix of both. A doctor can assess your medical history, conduct a physical examination, and perform tests to identify the underlying causes specific to your situation.
Key points:
- Psychological causes include stress, anxiety, depression, performance worry, relationship problems, and low self-esteem
- Physical causes stem from conditions affecting blood flow, nerves, or hormones, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and neurological disorders
- ED is increasingly recognised as a multidimensional condition resulting from the interaction of organic, psychological, and relational factors rather than a simple either-or diagnosis
- A healthcare professional, such as a urologist or sexual health specialist, can provide proper evaluation and guide appropriate treatment based on your specific circumstances
This text has been fact-checked for accuracy by Sorin Romaniuc, Pharmacist at medino.