This site is intended for Healthcare Professionals only

Start learning!  (0% complete)

quiz close icon

module menu icon Understanding ED

Understanding erectile dysfunction

ED is when a man is unable to get and/or keep an erection hard enough for sex.1
  • ED can happen occasionally, or all the time
  • It can have a significant impact on a man's confidence, sex life and relationships
  • It can vary from mild (a soft erection) to severe (no erection at all)
  • Although ED can occur at any age, it is more common in men over the age of 40.2

Did you know...

ED* affects
an estimated 5million
men
in the UK3,4

*Occasional and frequent difficulty getting or maintaining an erection

How to handle customer conversations

  • Men will easily recognise the problem, but understandably may feel embarrassed to discuss it
  • This is where you can make a difference, by handling requests with empathy and sensitivity
  • Remember to direct them to the private consultation area or away from other customers

Avoid sympathy which can sound patronising, e.g. "Oh no, poor you, that sounds difficult for you"