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6 Ways Your Doctor Can Treat Erectile Dysfunction
June 14, 2025
Tired of struggling with erectile dysfunction? The good news is, you’re not alone.
More than 30 million men in the U.S. deal with it – and while it can feel frustrating or even isolating, it’s also one of the most treatable men’s health conditions.
“ED is common, but it’s not something you just have to live with,” says David Crawley, MD, a urologist at Tallwood Men’s Health. “There are many different options we can try, depending on your health and lifestyle.”
Here are six ways your doctor can treat erectile dysfunction.
1. Lifestyle changes.
The first step doesn’t have to involve a prescription.
A few simple changes like these can all improve erectile dysfunction:
- Losing extra weight
- Quitting smoking
- Exercising more
- Cutting back on alcohol
- Reducing stress
“Improving your overall health can significantly impact sexual performance,” says Dr. Crawley.
> Related: Can Honey Packets Increase Sexual Performance?
2. Oral medications.
You’ve probably heard of Viagra, but there are plenty of other options out there.
Some of the most common erectile dysfunction treatments include:
“These medications are known as PDE5 inhibitors,” says Dr. Crawley. “They work by increasing blood flow to the penis in response to sexual stimulation.”
While these work for many men, they aren’t right for everyone. Your doctor will consider your health history and any medications you’re already taking to find the right choice for you.
> Related: 4 Natural Treatments for Erectile Dysfunction
3. Vacuum erection devices.
Also called pumps, these use gentle suction to pull blood into the penis. A small ring placed at the base helps maintain the erection.
“This is a successful non-invasive option,” says Dr. Crawley, “But some men may find it uncomfortable or less spontaneous than other methods.”
> Related: 5 Lifestyle Changes That Help Treat Erectile Dysfunction
4. Penile injection therapy.
If pills don’t work for you, it might be time to consider penile injection therapy. This is where medication is injected directly into the side or base of the penis to increase blood flow.
“This method often has excellent results,” says Dr. Crawley, “But it does require training and comfort with self-injection.”
5. Penile implants.
When other treatments aren’t working, penile implants offer a permanent, surgical solution.
The implant is placed inside the penis, and allows you to control when you get an erection. There are inflatable and semi-rigid versions, which are both highly effective at restoring sexual function.
> Related: Can a Penile Implant Help Your ED?
6. Therapy and counseling.
Erectile dysfunction isn’t always physical.
Stress, anxiety, depression and relationship challenges can all play a role. Before taking a drastic step, talking to a licensed therapist can often help.
With so many approaches available, your doctor can help you find the right solution to treat erectile dysfunction and improve your quality of life.