Treatment depends on what is causing the symptoms of ED, whether physical, psychological or a mixture of both. There are various treatments as outlined below:

• If there is an underlying health condition such as a high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes this may need to be treated first and in some cases may resolve the problem.
• ED can be improved often by making lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, losing weight if overweight, reducing alcohol intake, exercising regularly and taking steps to reduce stress. They can seriously improve general health and protect the heart.
• When lifestyle changes fail, medicine such as sildenafil (available as a Pharmacy only, ‘P’ medication if appropriate), may be used to treat ED symptoms - which involves having a conversation with the pharmacist. Other medication is available via a prescription.
• Vacuum pumps work by encouraging blood flow to the penis  causing an erection.
• If taking prescribed medication that causes ED, there may be an alternative available which case can be discussed with a healthcare professional.
• Sex therapy may be used to treat mental health problems -  the therapist will work with couples to assess and treat their sexual and/or relationship problems.
• Anxiety and depression can be treated with counselling and cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT).