Erectile Dysfunction and Sexual Health in Point Cook

Why erection problems deserve a check

An erection depends on healthy blood vessels, nerves and hormones, so a problem in any of them can show up in the bedroom first. Common causes include:

• narrowed arteries, high blood pressure or high cholesterol
• diabetes
• low testosterone or an underactive thyroid
• alcohol, smoking or other drugs
• some medicines for blood pressure, depression or prostate conditions
• stress, performance anxiety, relationship strain or depression

Erection problems are often the first sign of heart disease, diabetes or high blood pressure, so a check can pick these up early.

What happens at the appointment

Your GP will ask about your sexual history, general health, relationships and how you feel about sex. These questions are routine and help separate physical from psychological causes. An examination usually follows, and blood tests for sugar, cholesterol or hormones may be arranged at our onsite pathology centre. Sometimes your doctor will suggest a urologist.

Before your visit

It helps to note down:

• how long the problem has been going on, and whether it happens every time or only in some situations
• every medicine and supplement you take, including anything bought online
• how much you smoke, drink or use other drugs
• any changes in your mood, sleep or energy

Stopping smoking, moving more, eating well and losing excess weight can prevent some causes, so these may come up whatever else is found.

Treatment options

• treating any underlying condition first
• changes to exercise, diet, alcohol and smoking
• prescription medicines, if they are safe for you
• counselling, alone or with your partner
• injections or devices, usually through a specialist

ED medicines need a prescription and can interact with other medicines. They must not be taken with nitrate medicines used for chest pain. Fill a prescription at a store-based or reputable online pharmacy, never from unregulated websites.

Erectile dysfunction care in Point Cook, with STI testing

Many sexually transmitted infections cause no symptoms. If you have a new partner or are unsure of your status, STI testing can be added to the visit, and most checks begin with a urine sample, blood test or swab.

Dr Samer Elias and Dr Naser Nikkhah both list men’s health among their special interests.

When to get urgent help

A painful erection that will not go down is an emergency: go straight to a hospital emergency department. Call 000 for chest pain, during sex or at any other time.

If low mood or stress is part of the picture, MensLine Australia offers free counselling on 1300 78 99 78, day or night.

Common questions