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Erectile dysfunction in Australia

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the ongoing difficulty getting or keeping an erection firm enough for satisfying sex. It’s common, highly treatable, and—importantly—often a window into your broader health. If you’ve noticed changes in erections, you’re far from alone and there are proven steps you can take to feel better.

How common is ED in Australia?

Australian data show ED becomes more frequent with age, but it’s not just an “older man’s” issue. In a large study of 108,000+ Australian men aged 45 and over, 61% reported some degree of ED (about 25% mild, 19% moderate, 17% complete). The same study found the odds of moderate/complete ED rose by roughly 11% with each passing year after 45.

Looking across all ages, Healthdirect (Australia’s national health information service) notes that ED affects more than 1 in 10 males—and becomes more common as men get older.

Why ED matters for your health

ED is more than a bedroom problem. For some men, it’s an early flag for health conditions that affect blood vessels and nerves, like cardiovascular disease or diabetes. Australian guidance for GPs highlights ED as a marker of future cardiovascular risk, so bringing it up with a doctor can lead to earlier checks and better long-term outcomes.

Healthdirect also notes ED can be the first sign of issues such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and heart disease, which is why a medical assessment is worth your time.

What causes ED?

ED usually has more than one cause. Physical factors include conditions that affect blood flow (atherosclerosis), nerve function (e.g., diabetes, spinal injury), or hormones (e.g., low testosterone). Medicines (certain antidepressants, treatments for prostate disease), smoking, alcohol and other substances can also contribute. Stress, anxiety, low mood and relationship factors commonly play a role—sometimes alongside physical contributors.

Australian population research shows the likelihood of ED is higher among men with obesity, low physical activity, smoking, and conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or depression/anxiety—and lower among men who are more physically active.

What to expect from an ED assessment

A good ED assessment is practical and holistic. Australian clinical guidelines recommend a thorough medical and sexual history, a focused examination, and routine blood tests that typically include fasting glucose (or HbA1c), a lipid profile, and a morning total testosterone. Your clinician will also review medicines, mental health, sleep, alcohol/smoking, and relationship factors, then tailor a plan to your goals (e.g., spontaneity, frequency of sex, comfort with pills vs other options).

Evidence-based treatments

For many men, first-line treatment involves prescription medicines that help increase blood flow to the penis in response to sexual stimulation. In Australia, they require a prescription, and a clinician will check for drug interactions and underlying conditions first. Never combine these medicines with nitrates (used for chest pain) because the combination can dangerously lower blood pressure. If tablets aren’t suitable or don’t work well enough, options include self-injection therapy, vacuum erection devices, low-intensity shockwave therapy (in selected cases), and penile implants. Your doctor will help you weigh benefits, side effects, and fit with your lifestyle.

Two practical points men often ask about:

• On-demand vs daily use: Some medicines are typically taken before sex; certain options can be used either on demand or once daily at a low dose to support spontaneity. Your clinician will discuss which fits your routine and health profile.
• Psychological support: When stress, performance anxiety, or relationship strain are present, cognitive-behavioural therapy or sex therapy can boost results—either alone or alongside medication.

Lifestyle changes that help

Many of the same habits that protect heart health also support better erections. Stopping smoking, moving more, reaching a healthy weight, limiting alcohol, sleeping well, and managing stress can improve erectile function and overall wellbeing. Even at older ages, increasing physical activity is associated with better erectile function.

When to seek care

• Your erection problems persist for several weeks or cause distress.
• You have ED and risk factors for heart disease (e.g., diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, family history).
• You take nitrates or have complex health conditions—don’t start ED medicines without medical advice.

If you’re embarrassed, remember: Australian clinicians manage ED every day. An honest conversation can uncover simple fixes and, sometimes, prevent bigger health problems down the track.

The bottom line

ED is common among Australian men and becomes more likely with age; in men 45+, most will experience it to some degree. But it’s highly treatable, and addressing it is really about looking after your whole-of-body health. A tailored plan—covering screening tests, safe and effective medicines, and simple lifestyle supports—can restore confidence and satisfaction while keeping an eye on the health conditions that matter most.