Erectile dysfunction (ED), or impotence, describes the inability to achieve or maintain an erection that is firm enough for sexual function. One of the most common sexual problems, ED affects about one half of American men over age 40. It can cause personal issues such as low self-esteem and depression and may affect relationships. Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH) integrates diagnostic medical and laboratory exams with one-to-one conversation to get to the root of the problem and offers several safe and effective ED treatments. Our goal is to help men resume sexual intimacy.
Factors that contribute to an increased risk for developing erectile dysfunction include:
Finding the cause of the ED will help your urologists determine the best treatment options. Diagnostic procedures for ED may include the following:
Some of the treatments available for ED include:
Penile implants can also be used to treat patients who have a curved or bent penis, a condition known as Peyronie’s disease. In select cases, surgical straightening is an option.
Patients may also benefit from penile injections, a minimally invasive approach that has achieved positive results in clinical trials. Xiaflex® was first approved for the treatment of Dupuytren’s contracture, a hand disease that affects the fingers. In 2013, the FDA approved Xiaflex®; for Peyronie’s disease after it was shown to break down the buildup of collagen that causes penile curvature. BWH’s participation in the national clinical trial of Xiaflex®; played an important part in getting this injection treatment approved as a viable option for patients with Peyronie’s disease.
Men can take charge of their overall medical and psychological health and adopt better lifestyle choices, a combination that may help improve sexual health.
You will receive a thorough diagnostic examination and receive clinically-proven treatment by a board-certified urologist who specializes in erectile dysfunction. Appointments are confidential and private
Brigham and Women's Hospital practices a multidisciplinary approach to patient care, routinely collaborating with colleagues in other medical specialties. If your urologist discovers that an underlying illness has contributed to your erectile dysfunction, you will be referred to an appropriate BWH physician for an evaluation.
Go to our online health library to learn more about urology diseases and tests.
Visit the Kessler Health Education Library in the Bretholtz Center for Patients and Families to access computers and knowledgeable staff.
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