ED in your 30s and 40s

How common is ED in younger men?

Almost all men have trouble getting or keeping an erection now and then. That’s normal. When it keeps happening, it’s called erectile dysfunction, or ED.

ED becomes more common with age, but it isn’t only an older man’s concern. Research suggests about 40% of men are affected by age 40. If you have trouble more than about one out of every four times, it’s a good idea to see a health care provider.

Common causes at this age

To get an erection, your brain, nerves, hormones and blood vessels all have to work together. In younger men, emotional causes are more common than in older men, but physical causes still matter. Often it’s a mix of both.

• Stress and anxiety: pressure from work, money, family or a relationship can get in the way.
• Performance worry: doubt, fear of failing or expecting too much can turn sex into a task instead of a pleasure.
• Alcohol and drugs: drinking too much and using recreational drugs can cause ED or make it worse.
• Smoking: it’s linked to heart and blood vessel disease, which can lead to ED.
• Weight and activity: extra weight and not moving enough are linked to ED.
• Early health problems: diabetes, high blood pressure and clogged arteries can start quietly at this age.
• Some medicines: including some antidepressants, blood pressure medicines and sleeping pills.
• Hormones: low testosterone or a thyroid problem can play a role, though it’s only one of many possible causes.

Why it’s worth a checkup

ED can be a sign of other health problems. It may mean your blood vessels are getting clogged, or that diabetes is affecting your nerves. These problems are easier to manage when they’re found early.

Men with diabetes may develop ED 10 to 15 years earlier than men without it. Changes in erections can even be a sign that you have diabetes.

What happens at the visit

Your provider will ask about your health, your sex life, your mood and any medicines or supplements you take. A physical exam may include checking your blood pressure.

They may suggest blood or urine tests to check for diabetes, heart problems or low testosterone. Be open and honest. Health care professionals are trained to talk about every kind of health problem.

What you can do now

Healthy habits help your erections and your heart at the same time.

• Move more: aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity, like brisk walking, each week.
• Quit smoking: it’s one of the best things you can do for ED and your overall health.
• Limit alcohol: and avoid recreational drugs.
• Eat well and manage your weight: a healthy weight helps prevent diabetes and high blood pressure.
• Rest and relax: sleep well and try simple ways to ease stress, like deep breathing.

Treatment options

Treatment starts with finding and treating the cause when possible. Your provider may also review your medicines and suggest a different dose or a switch. Don’t stop any medicine on your own.

Pills that improve blood flow to the penis work well for many men. Other options include medicine placed in or injected into the penis, a vacuum device, and surgery, which most men don’t need. Counseling can help when stress, anxiety or relationship concerns are part of the picture. To find care that fits you, learn how to choose an ED provider.

Common questions

Is it normal to have ED in my 30s?

Having trouble now and then is very common at any age. If it keeps happening, it’s worth talking with a provider, because ED is often treatable and can point to other health issues.

Is ED in younger men all in your head?

Not usually. Emotional causes are more common in younger men, but most erection problems have a physical cause, and often it’s a mix of both.

Can lifestyle changes really help?

For many men, yes. Exercise, a healthy diet, losing extra weight, sleeping well, quitting smoking and limiting alcohol can all help.

Should I try supplements first?

It’s best to talk with a provider first. Herbs and supplements sold for sexual performance have not been proven to treat ED, and they may not always be safe.

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.

Sources

• NIDDK: Definition & Facts for Erectile Dysfunction
• NIDDK: Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction
• NIDDK: Diabetes, Sexual, & Bladder Problems
• MedlinePlus: Erectile Dysfunction
• MedlinePlus: Erection problems