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Health library/Erectile Dysfunction

Reproductive health

Erectile Dysfunction

Also known as: ED, Impotence

Erectile dysfunction is persistent difficulty obtaining or maintaining an erection. It can reflect vascular, nerve, hormonal or psychological factors that deserve respectful evaluation.

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What you may notice

Symptoms can overlap with other conditions and vary between people.

  • Difficulty obtaining an erection
  • Difficulty maintaining an erection

Understanding care

Clinical care may include review of physical health, medicines and emotional factors with discussion of suitable options. A qualified clinician decides which investigations and options fit the individual situation.

When to seek help

Arrange clinical review when symptoms persist, worsen or affect daily life. A sudden serious deterioration, collapse or severe breathing difficulty requires urgent help.

For severe breathing difficulty, collapse, suspected stroke, or another emergency, call local emergency services immediately. In India, call 112.

Read the medical sources

These sources support the educational article and offer more detail.

Educational reading · Updated 6 October 2026

Prepared from the linked sources. This summary has not had an independent clinician review. A qualified clinician can assess symptoms and explain which information applies to you.

A child and a caring grown-up reading a picture book together

LITTLE PEOPLE. BIG FEELINGS.

It’s okay to have
a lot of questions.

A doctor visit or an unfamiliar health word can feel scary. You can ask a trusted grown-up to help you understand, one small question at a time.

01

Say how you feel.

“I feel worried” is a good place to start.

02

Ask for simple words.

“Can you explain that in a way I understand?”

03

Bring someone you trust.

A caring adult can help you ask and listen.

For children and their grown-ups. This illustration explains a conversation, not a diagnosis. An adult should seek qualified care for a child who is unwell.

Erectile Dysfunction — First AID health library