Erectile dysfunction: when to seek help and which health checks may matter
Erection difficulties are common. An occasional problem can happen with stress, tiredness or alcohol. If it keeps happening, speak with a GP or sexual health clinician. Erectile dysfunction (ED) can be linked to blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, medicines, mood or hormone problems. There is often effective help available.
Start with a conversation
A clinician may ask when the problem started, review your medicines and general health, check blood pressure, and discuss smoking, exercise, sleep and alcohol. No single home test diagnoses the cause of ED.
Self-collection tests you can buy from us
These laboratory tests are available as self-collection kits through Pristine Health Solutions:
HbA1c blood test — measures average blood glucose over recent months and can help assess diabetes risk.
Lipids Profile — measures cholesterol levels relevant to cardiovascular health.
Follow the kit instructions for sample collection and return. The sample goes to a laboratory; the kit does not provide an instant diagnosis. Share your results with a clinician, especially if symptoms persist.
Other tests after a doctor’s consultation
Depending on your symptoms, a doctor may recommend an early-morning testosterone blood test. A low result may need repeating and interpreting alongside symptoms. Thyroid or prolactin tests may help in selected cases. These tests can be arranged following a doctor’s consultation, with venous blood collection at a clinic or, where available, at home by a phlebotomist.
Getting help
Addressing high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, stress or a medicine side effect may help. Some people benefit from counselling or sex therapy; others may be offered medication after a clinical assessment. Do not stop prescribed medicines or start ED treatment without checking that it is suitable for you.
If erection difficulties keep happening, contact us about a doctor’s consultation. You can also contact your NHS GP or a sexual health clinic.
Urgent help: An erection lasting more than 3 to 4 hours needs emergency assessment. Call 999 or go to A&E.
This article offers general information and is not a diagnosis or a substitute for individual medical advice.
