Erectile Dysfunction Options: What You Can Try Today

ED is common, but that doesn’t mean you have to accept it. If you’re reading this, you want clear options—not confusion. Below are practical, tested ways to restore erectile function, how they work, and what to watch out for.

Medical treatments you should know

First-line care is often oral medication called PDE5 inhibitors. Names you’ve probably heard: sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil, and avanafil. They help blood flow to the penis and work for many men. Try them only after talking to your doctor—never mix them with nitrates (common heart meds), and report side effects like dizziness, severe headache, or vision changes.

If pills don’t help, injections are an option. Alprostadil injected into the penis produces a reliable erection within minutes. It’s more invasive but effective for many men who don’t respond to pills. Your clinician will show you how to inject safely and what dose to use.

For men with low testosterone, hormone therapy can improve libido and sometimes erectile function. Don’t start testosterone unless tests show it’s low. Hormone therapy has risks and needs monitoring by a doctor.

Devices, surgery, and other solutions

Vacuum erection devices are non-drug, mechanical options. They’re cheap, simple, and work reliably when used correctly: a plastic cylinder creates suction, then a ring keeps the erection. Some men report the sensation feels different, but many couples find it a good long-term solution.

Penile implants are a surgical option when other treatments fail. Inflatable implants give a more natural erection feel and are highly reliable. Surgery has risks—infection and device issues—so discuss pros and cons with a urologist.

Psychological causes are common. Stress, anxiety, relationship issues, and past sexual trauma can all cause or worsen ED. Sex therapy or cognitive-behavioral therapy often helps, sometimes paired with medical treatment. Don’t underestimate how much talking to a therapist can change results.

Lifestyle changes play a big role. Lose excess weight, stop smoking, limit alcohol, exercise regularly, control blood sugar if you have diabetes, and treat high blood pressure. These steps improve erections and overall health, and they complement any medical treatment.

Be cautious with supplements and online purchases. Many over-the-counter “male enhancement” pills aren’t tested and can contain hidden drugs. If you consider buying meds online, use a licensed pharmacy and confirm a prescription is required—your safety depends on it.

When should you see a doctor? If ED shows up suddenly, comes with pain, or follows a heart or stroke event, get evaluated quickly. Otherwise, see your primary care doctor or a urologist if ED is persistent, affects your relationships, or causes worry. Getting help is the first step to better sex and better health.