Erectile Dysfunction Treatment: A Self‑Check Questionnaire and Practical Next Steps

by shabsinmiller February 8th, 2026     |     Share   

Erectile dysfunction treatment

Disclaimer: The self-check questionnaire below is for educational purposes only. It does not diagnose erectile dysfunction (ED) or replace professional medical advice. If you are unsure about your symptoms or they persist, consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Questionnaire

Use this checklist to reflect on symptoms, duration, risk factors, and possible triggers related to erectile difficulties. Answer honestly and note patterns over time.

• Have you noticed difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection in the past 3–6 months?
• Do these difficulties occur consistently, or only in certain situations?
• Are morning or spontaneous erections less frequent than before?
• Do you experience reduced sexual desire or interest?
• Have recent stress, anxiety, or relationship concerns coincided with these changes?
• Do you have chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease?
• Have you started or changed any medications in the past year (including antidepressants or blood pressure drugs)?
• Do you smoke, vape, or use tobacco products?
• How often do you consume alcohol, and has your intake increased recently?
• Is your sleep quality poor, or do you have symptoms of sleep apnea?
• Have you noticed changes after illness, surgery, or injury (especially pelvic or spinal)?
• Do symptoms improve with rest, reduced stress, or lifestyle changes?
• Have you tried any erectile dysfunction treatment approaches (lifestyle, counseling, medication) with partial benefit?
• Are symptoms affecting your confidence, mood, or relationship satisfaction?
• Do you avoid intimacy due to concern about performance?
• Is there a family history of cardiovascular disease or hormonal disorders?

How to interpret answers

This section helps you gauge whether it may be useful to seek professional guidance. It does not provide a diagnosis.

• Low reason to seek help: Occasional difficulties linked to temporary stress, fatigue, or situational factors that improve with rest or reassurance.
• Medium reason to seek help: Recurrent symptoms, noticeable impact on quality of life, or the presence of modifiable risk factors (sleep, stress, lifestyle).
• High reason to seek help: Persistent symptoms over several months, associated medical conditions, medication changes, or significant emotional distress.

Next steps: what to do

1. Self-monitor: Track when symptoms occur, their frequency, and any triggers.
2. Record health factors: Note sleep, stress, exercise, alcohol intake, and medications.
3. Review lifestyle habits: Consider gradual changes in activity, diet, and sleep hygiene.
4. Choose the right specialist: Start with a primary care clinician; they may refer you to a urologist or endocrinologist if appropriate.
5. Prepare questions: Ask about possible causes, tests, and evidence-based erectile dysfunction treatment options.
6. Discuss mental health: Counseling or sex therapy can be part of a comprehensive approach.
7. Follow up: Reassess symptoms after agreed-upon steps and keep appointments.

FAQ

Is erectile dysfunction common?

Yes. Many men experience erectile difficulties at some point, especially with age or stress.

Can lifestyle changes help?

Physical activity, balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, and reduced alcohol can support sexual health.

Are psychological factors important?

Anxiety, depression, and relationship issues can contribute and are commonly addressed in ED care.

When should I talk to a doctor?

If symptoms persist, worsen, or affect well-being, professional guidance is recommended.

What treatments might be discussed?

Clinicians may discuss lifestyle measures, counseling, medications, or devices—tailored to individual needs.

Can ED signal other health issues?

Sometimes ED is associated with cardiovascular or metabolic conditions, which is why evaluation can be helpful.

Is online information enough?

Online resources can educate, but they should complement—not replace—personal medical advice.

Explore related educational resources in our general health library, read more in our uncategorized medical guides, or browse practical tips in the wellness articles section.

Sources

• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
• American Urological Association (AUA)
• World Health Organization (WHO)
• Mayo Clinic