Erectile dysfunction in men under 40

Erectile dysfunction (ED) or impotence, is common in men over 40.¹ Some estimates show that 1 in 2 men between the ages of 40 and 70 will have ED at some point in their lives. But men under 40 can have erection problems too.¹

There are many causes of ED. Physical and psychological factors may contribute to your ability to get and maintain an erection.1 But regardless of your age, ED is a treatable condition and there are many ways it can be managed.

In men under 40, ED can be triggered by if you’re struggling with your mental health. It can also be a sign of heart disease or disease in your metabolism.

Talking to your GP will help you understand the reasons for your ED. They may also advise you on lifestyle changes you can make to treat both your ED and the symptoms of any other condition you live with.²

It is normal to feel worried, sad, or even angry about having ED. You may have some additional concerns about how ED and medication for ED will affect you in the future, for example having children (fertility).

If you feel worried or concerned, it is important that you share your concerns with someone. Concerns over fertility can be discussed with your GP or at a family planning clinic.

Things that can help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety also include:

• Talking to a trusted individual about why you feel anxious
• Keeping a diary and write down when you feel anxious
• Practicing good sleep hygiene by avoiding blue light before bed and having a regular bedtime
• Eating regularly and make sure your meals are nutritious
• Doing gentle exercise such as going for a walk, swimming or yoga.³

If you have ED, it shouldn’t affect your fertility. The same goes for ED medicines – there’s isn’t a lot of data to show that they can limit or prevent you from having a child naturally.⁴

If you are planning on start or growing your family, you can speak to your GP for advice. There are fertility services available, if you need support with conceiving or trying for a baby that they can refer you to.

ED can impact how you feel about yourself and your relationships – lowering your self-esteem, confidence and your ability to form and maintain relationships with partners.⁶

If you have experienced these feelings, there are steps you can take to help improve your self-esteem. Talking to a professional about your ED to see if there is an appropriate treatment for the symptoms and the underlying cause will help you find an approach that works for you.

Your partner might also be dealing with their own feelings and emotions about your ED. It can help to talk about things together in a space where you both feel comfortable. It is important to remember that it is nobody’s fault if you have ED and that it is a condition that can be treated.

If you’re single, or thinking about dating, you might worry about how ED will affect new relationships and how you’ll explain ED to someone you don’t know very well. It’s normal to feel this way but remember that there is support and help available.