Erectile dysfunction, otherwise known as impotence or ED, is more common than most men realise, and is characterised by the inability to reach or maintain an erection during sexual activity.[1]

Because many men don’t like to talk about erectile problems such as ED, there is a lot of misinformation out there about the condition. One of the most common theories is that ED is directly caused by low levels of testosterone.

But although ED can sometimes be linked to testosterone, it’s actually unlikely that low levels of the hormone are causing your symptoms.

There are many things that can cause ED

Unfortunately, it can often be difficult to underline a single factor causing ED symptoms, as the condition itself is quite complex. Therefore, saying that low levels of testosterone always lead to ED simply isn’t true.

In fact, studies have shown that men with both ED and low testosterone don’t necessarily see any improvement in their ED when their testosterone levels are treated.[2]

ED can occasionally be related to testosterone, but it is actually almost always caused by low blood flow to the penis, as an erection occurs when there is increased blood flow due to sexual arousal. This difficulty with blood flow can be linked to a range of wider issues, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol or hardening of the arteries.[3]

ED can also occur as a result of mental health concerns, such as depression, anxiety and relationship problems. In these instances, taking things slowly, talking things through with your partner and seeking treatment and guidance on your wider health concerns can help to alleviate symptoms.[4]

The relationship between low testosterone and ED

There is no doubt that male sexual wellbeing and testosterone are closely linked, but the relationships between testosterone and ED is complex.

Many men who suffer from erectile problems have perfectly normal testosterone levels. As such, testosterone often isn’t considered as a suitable treatment unless certain other symptoms are also present, such as low libido and fatigue.[5]

Age is a factor in both ED and testosterone levels. The chances of developing ED increase as a man ages, and likewise male testosterone levels naturally decline by around 1-2% per year as he ages. But despite these occurring simultaneous, there is no proof that one causes the other.[6]

Treating ED

Prior to the release of medication like Viagra, many men’s go-to treatment for ED was Testosterone Replacement Therapy. But TRT can be extremely costly and carries with it many risks, including an increased risk of cardiovascular problems. On top of all this, in most cases of ED it is unlikely to help relieve symptoms[7], as low testosterone is rarely the cause of the condition.

Treatments like Viagra and Sildenafil are easily obtained and quick to consume, coming in the form of an oral tablet. Through clinical trials, they have been proven to be effective in improving blood flow to the penis and therefore making reaching and sustaining an erection much easier.[8]

Don’t be afraid to open up about ED. Finding the right treatment for your symptoms can open you up to a healthy, happier and more satisfying sex life.

Find many of the most popular erectile dysfunction treatments like Sildenafil, Viagra and Spedra right here at Express Pharmacy. If you have any questions, contact our pharmacists today by calling 0208 123 07 03 or by using our discreet online Live Chat service.

[1] NHS UK. Erectile dysfunction (impotence). 2017

[2] Rajfer, J. Relationship Between Testosterone and Erectile Dysfunction. Reviews in Urology. 2000

[3] American Urological Association. Testosterone for Erection Problems. 2018.

[4] Thomas, L. Healing Erectile Dysfunction. Psychology Today. 2010.

[5] Pendick, D. A logical approach to treating erectile dysfunction. Harvard Health Publishing. 2012.

[6] Advanced Urological Care. Erectile Dysfunction. 2019.

[7] American Urological Association. Testosterone for Erection Problems. 2018.

[8] Moore, RA., Edwards, JE., McQuay, HJ. Sildenafil (Viagra) for male erectile dysfunction: a meta-analysis of clinical trial reports. BioMed Central. 2002.