How to talk to your doctor about ED
For many men, the hardest part of treating erectile dysfunction is saying it out loud. Doctors hear about ED every day. A few simple words get the conversation started, and the visit is usually quick and comfortable.
What to say
You can keep it simple:
- “I’ve been having trouble with erections. Can we talk about it?”
- “My erections aren’t what they used to be, and I want to make sure my health is OK.”
- “I read that ED can be linked to heart health. Can you check me out?”
If it’s easier, write it on your intake form or send it through the patient portal before the visit.
What the doctor may ask
- How long it’s been happening and whether it’s getting worse
- Whether you still get erections in the morning or at night
- Your medicines, supplements, alcohol, and tobacco use
- Your stress, mood, sleep, and relationship
- Other symptoms, like low energy or bathroom changes
Honest answers lead to the right treatment. Everything you share is private health information.
Free printable: download the ED doctor visit checklist (PDF) and bring it to your appointment.
Common questions
Should I see a urologist or my regular doctor for ED?
Your primary care doctor is a good first stop because they can check your heart, blood sugar, and hormone levels. A urologist specializes in men’s urologic and sexual health, and your doctor can refer you if you need one.
How do I bring up ED with my doctor?
Keep it simple, for example: “I’ve been having trouble with erections. Can we talk about it?” If saying it out loud is hard, write it on your intake form or send it through the patient portal before the visit.
Is it embarrassing to talk to a doctor about ED?
Many men feel that way, but doctors hear about ED every day and the visit is usually quick and comfortable. Everything you share is private health information.
What tests will a doctor do for ED?
Most visits include a short physical exam with a blood pressure check, and blood tests for blood sugar, cholesterol, and sometimes testosterone. Depending on your answers, your doctor may suggest a urine test or other checks.
What should I bring to my ED appointment?
Bring a list of your medicines and supplements with doses, notes on when the problem started and how often it happens, and any other symptoms. Write down your questions, such as which treatments fit you and what they cost.
Ready for next steps? Read how to find ED care in New Orleans and Metairie, including what a good first visit looks like and the questions worth asking.
Not sure where to start? We list trusted places to get checked in Louisiana, from community health centers to men’s health clinics. See where to get care.
Tests you might have
- A short physical exam, including blood pressure
- Blood tests for blood sugar, cholesterol, and sometimes testosterone
- Sometimes a urine test or other checks, depending on your answers
Your checklist
- List your medicines and supplements, with doses
- Note when the problem started and how often it happens
- Write down any other symptoms
- Bring your questions, such as which treatments fit you and what they cost
- If you have a partner, consider bringing them along
Questions to ask
- What do you think is causing this?
- Could my heart, blood sugar, or hormones be part of it?
- Which treatments make sense for me, and what are the side effects?
- Is a generic medicine available?
- When should we follow up if this doesn’t help?
Sources
Where to get care
Any of these is a good next step. Pick the one that fits you.
- Aspire Health and Wellness†. A men’s health clinic in Metairie specializing in erectile dysfunction and weight loss, with free private visits and a range of treatment options. Visit aspireneworleans.com.
- Your primary care doctor. A good first stop. They can check your heart, blood sugar, and hormone levels.
- A urologist. A doctor who specializes in men’s urologic and sexual health.
- A community health center. Fees are based on income, with or without insurance. Find a community health center.
- Louisiana Medicaid. If you qualify, it covers doctor visits and prescriptions. See if you qualify.
- Veterans. Southeast Louisiana VA Health Care offers men’s health care for enrolled veterans.
† Affiliated with Aspire Community Care. We’re a nonprofit and don’t provide medical care; choose any provider that fits you.
Not sure where to start? Tell us what’s going on and we’ll help you find a next step. What you share stays private.
Keep reading
ED Treatment Options
Pills, injections, devices, and newer options, explained plainly.
ED and Your Heart
Why erectile dysfunction can be an early warning sign of heart disease.
Low-Cost Care in Louisiana
Checkups and care with or without insurance.
Also helpful: Supporting Your Partner · Men’s Mental Health