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Erectile dysfunction assessment: history, examination and tests
An erectile dysfunction assessment combines a medical, sexual and mental-health history with examination and selected tests. Bring your medication list and symptom notes; testing depends on what the clinician finds, not a fixed package.
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Assessment
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History and preparation
Note when the problem began, whether it happens every time, and changes in morning erections, desire, orgasm or ejaculation. Bring prescribed and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and supplements. Discuss smoking, alcohol, stress and relationship concerns without assuming there is only one cause.
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Examination and general health
The clinician may check blood pressure and look for blood-vessel, nerve or hormonal problems, as well as penile injury or curvature. Explain any diabetes, heart disease or previous pelvic surgery. Ask what each part of the examination is for and discuss any privacy concerns before it begins.
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Tests matched to the findings
Selected blood tests may help investigate hormonal or other health conditions. Ultrasound can assess blood flow in the penis; a nighttime erection test or an injection test may help clarify a particular question. These are different tools, not a checklist everyone must complete. Ask what a result would change about your care.
Before leaving, ask which contributors are suspected, whether tests or referral are needed, and how results will be explained. A test can inform the assessment but should not replace a discussion of symptoms, medicines and preferences. Do not start testosterone or buy ED medicines on the strength of a self-diagnosis.