Types of Erectile Dysfunction and Treatment

Types of Erectile Disorders

There are four areas of normal sexual function--libido (desire), erection, ejaculation and orgasm. Problems in these areas can occur separately or in combination. Erectile dysfunction can often affect libido and ejaculation, especially when the erectile dysfunction persists. This can be very disconcerting to any man.

The following table highlights the various causes of sexual dysfunction (excluding impotence). Each problem, regardless of cause, is potentially treatable. When due to erectile dysfunction, they may resolve spontaneously when the erection problem is successfully treated; if not, they need to be addressed separately. (The term “organic” means from a physical cause.)


Type of Psychological Organic Treatment
Dysfunction Cause Cause



Libido Low Depression Hormonal Testosterone
Stress Medication Antidepressants
Secondary to
organic erectile
dysfunction

High Obsession Hormonal Antidepressants
Unfulfilled sexual Secondary to
desire organic erectile
dysfunction
Ejacula-
tion Early Anxiety Secondary to Antidepressants
organic erectile
dysfunction

Delayed Inhibitions Alcohol Sex therapy
Depression Medication
Anger (particularly
Stress antidepressants)

Unable Inhibitions Spinal cord surgery Sex therapy
(usually associated Medication
with difficulty achieving (some
orgasm) antidepressants)
Extensive pelvic surgery
( Radical prostatectomy and
diabetes may cause
“retrograde” ejaculation)

Orgasm Prolonged/ Unable Inhibitions Extensive pelvic surgery Sex therapy
Depression Medication
Anger (some antidepressants)
Secondary to
low libido



Finding a Health-Care Provider or Counselor

American Urological Association
Phone: (866) RING-AUA (746-4282) or (410) 689-3700
AUA can refer you to a urologist in your area.


American Diabetes Association (ADA)
Phone: (800) DIABETES (342-2383)
ADA can help you find a doctor who specializes in diabetes care in your area.