How do I talk about ED with my doctor?
Consulting your doctor is an essential step in figuring out whether you have ED and, if you do, how to best manage it:
- Doctors are the only ones qualified to diagnose ED and, more so, to determine the exact cause.
- Once your doctor determines the cause of your ED, he or she will be able to make recommendations on the best way to treat it.
Your doctor knows how to put you at ease when discussing ED. You've probably heard this before – but it's true:
- The hardest part about discussing ED with your physician is taking the first step and making the appointment, and...
- Once you've discussed your concerns with your doctor, you will likely feel a lot better!
‘Breaking the ice’ with your MD
If you're still not sure how to kick-start the conversation with your doctor, these ‘openers’ can help set it off in the right direction:
"Doc, my erections haven't been the same lately, and I would like to talk to you about that."
or...
"Doc, I think I may be experiencing some problems with my erections and would like to get your opinion."
or...
"Doc, my erection isn't as great as it used to be. I'd appreciate you checking me out to see if there's something wrong."
No matter how you start the conversation with your doctor:
- be open
- be honest
- stick to the facts
- let your doctor figure out what's happening (after all, he/she is the expert!)
In addition to conducting a physical exam, your physician will probably ask you questions about:
- Your sexual history (e.g., onset of ED, rigidity of erection, and other specifics related to ED such as nocturnal or morning erections, etc.)
- Your medical history (e.g., past injuries, medical conditions, lifestyle habits, etc.)
