Erectile Dysfunction Service

What to Expect

Our physicians understand patients' anxieties about erectile dysfunction (ED). Our goal is to effectively treat this condition so patients can resume sexual intimacy with their partners.

At your first visit you can expect:

• A confidential discussion of your condition, normal sexual function and expectations during and after treatment
• A comprehensive health evaluation
• Additional blood tests (if needed)
• An individualized treatment program to help you achieve satisfactory erectile function
• Referral to the appropriate medical specialist if an underlying illness is diagnosed

About the Program

The mission of the Erectile Dysfunction Service at the Massachusetts General Hospital Department of Urology is to deliver care to men experiencing erectile dysfunction (ED) so they can resume sexual intimacy with their partners. We provide private, personalized evaluations and effective, clinically proven treatments for this condition.

Many men experience ED as a consequence of aging or some specific underlying medical condition. Once thought to be purely psychological or emotional, ED more often is symptomatic of an underlying physical disease. Additionally, the condition can be caused by many common medications, including those prescribed for high blood pressure.

Common causes of ED include:

• Diabetes
• Arteriosclerosis(clogged blood vessels) and high cholesterol
• Smoking
• Metabolic disorders
• Hypertension(high blood pressure)
• Enlarged prostate
• Hormonal imbalance
• History of abdominal or pelvic surgery
• History of treatment for prostate cancer
• Low testosterone (Low T)
• Testosterone therapy
• Peyronie's disease

If one of our urologists discovers that a person's ED is caused by an underlying illness, he or she will refer the patient to an appropriate specialist for further evaluation. For example, a patient diagnosed with heart disease may be referred to a cardiologist. All patients can choose to be referred to one of the many accomplished specialists at Mass General.

Safe & Effective Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction

Our urologists have led or participated in many clinical research studies to evaluate the most effective treatments for ED. In many cases, men with ED can regain erectile function and resume sexual activity with a prescribed oral medication When this fails to correct the problem, our urologists will choose another clinically proven treatment, working closely with the patient to find the therapy that produces a positive outcome.

Contrary to popular opinion, therapies such as vacuum pump devices and intra-penile injections are safe, effective and involve little or no discomfort when performed as recommended by your urologist.

If one of these methods is appropriate for you, your urologist will carefully show you how to self-administer the treatment. Your urologist also will answer all questions to ensure you are completely comfortable and confident with the recommended treatment plan.

Recognized Experts in Helping Men with Erectile Dysfunction

Over the past three decades, the urology team at Mass General has successfully cared for thousands of men with ED, from young adults to senior citizens. This depth of experience means every patient sees a physician who is an expert at diagnosing ED and choosing the most effective method of treatment.

Taking the First Step

If you are uncertain or embarrassed about seeking treatment, please rest assured that we treat every patient with the utmost respect and complete confidentiality. We encourage men with ED to take the first step and schedule an evaluation with one of our specialists.