Erection problems (EP) and erectile dysfunction: what every man in the UK should know
What are erection problems?
Erection problems - also known as erectile dysfunction (ED) or impotence - occur when a man is unable to get an erection or has difficulty keeping an erection hard enough for sex. The two terms mean exactly the same thing: erection problems is the everyday phrase, while erectile dysfunction is the medical term your GP or pharmacist is likely to use.
Men experience erection difficulty in different ways. Some men find they can't get a male erection at all. Others can get one, but struggle with keeping an erection firm enough or long enough for sex. For some, it happens occasionally; for others, it's a more regular occurrence.
Either way, there's no need to feel embarrassed or ashamed. Erection problems are a recognised medical condition - and in the majority of cases, they can be successfully treated.
How common are erection problems in the UK?
More common than most men realise. An estimated 15 million men in the UK report difficulty getting or keeping an erection¹ - yet many stay silent and avoid seeking help, sometimes for years.
Men can experience erection difficulty in several ways:
- Unable to get an erection at all
- Getting an erection that isn't hard enough for sex
- Getting an erection, but having difficulty keeping an erection for long enough
At what age do men start experiencing erection problems?
One of the most common questions men ask is: at what age do men need Viagra, or start having erection difficulties? The honest answer is that there's no set age - erection problems can affect men at any stage of adult life.
While it's true that the likelihood of experiencing ED increases with age, particularly from your 40s onwards, research shows that around 40% of men under 40 also experience erection problems at some point². This makes it one of the most widespread yet least-discussed men's health issues in the UK.
Younger men tend to experience EPs that are more closely linked to psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, or performance pressure. In older men, physical causes become more common, though the two often overlap.
What causes erection problems?
A male erection relies on a carefully coordinated process involving blood flow, nerves, hormones, and your mental state. Erection difficulty can arise when any part of this process is disrupted by physical health conditions, psychological factors, or certain medications.
Physical causes
Physical health problems are among the most common causes of erectile dysfunction in the UK. These include:
- Cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure - reduced blood flow to the penis makes it harder to get or sustain an erection
- Type 2 diabetes can damage both the nerves and blood vessels involved in erections
- High cholesterol
- Obesity
- Low testosterone levels
- Certain prescription medications, including some antidepressants, beta-blockers, and diuretics
- Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking
This reassurance can reduce anxiety, which often plays a role in erectile dysfunction.
Psychological causes
Mental health and emotional well-being play a significant role in a man's ability to get and keep an erection. Common psychological causes include:
- Stress - work, financial, or relationship-related
- Anxiety, including performance anxiety
- Depression
- Relationship difficulties
- Low self-esteem or poor body image
Common myths about erection problems and the facts
Erection problems aren't talked about as openly as they should be. That means myths can spread - and stop men from getting the help they need.
Myth
"Erection problems only affect older men."
Fact
EPs can affect men of any age. Around 40% of men under 40 experience them at some point². Age is a contributing factor, but it's far from the only one.
Myth
"Men and impotence - it's just part of getting older, nothing can be done."
Fact
While EPs do become more common with age, they are not an inevitable or untreatable part of ageing. Treatments, including lifestyle changes and medications, are effective for the majority of men.
Myth
"Having erection difficulty means you're not attracted to your partner."
Fact
EPs are almost always caused by medical or psychological factors - not a lack of attraction. A man can be fully attracted to his partner and still experience erection problems due to stress, health conditions, or medication.
Myth
"EPs have nothing to do with other health problems."
Fact
Erection problems can result from physical health conditions, mental health issues, or certain medications.
What should you do if you're experiencing erection problems?
The most important thing is not to ignore it. There's no need to feel embarrassed: healthcare professionals discuss erection problems and erectile dysfunction every day. Lifestyle changes can make a real difference. But if you want something that works while you're making those changes, there are proven treatment options available without a prescription.
Find the treatment that fits your life
There's no single right answer - the best option depends on how and when you want to have sex. Here's a straightforward comparison of what's available:
Viagra Connect®
For men who want a trusted, proven pill. Works in as little as 25 minutes and can be taken every day. The UK's most recognised treatment for erectile dysfunction - available directly online.
✓ Works in as little as 25 minutes
✓ Can be taken daily
New - Viagra Connect® Melts
For men who want fast, discreet action in the moment. A fast-dissolving oral film that melts on the tongue in seconds - no water needed, no tablet to swallow. A discreet alternative to traditional ED tablets that usually starts to work within 30 to 60 minutes.
✓ Melts on the tongue in seconds
✓ No water required
✓ Works within 30 - 60 minutes
Avarante®
For men who want flexibility and spontaneity. Avarante gives you up to 36 hours of freedom - so you're not under pressure to plan ahead. Take it when it suits you and let the moment happen naturally.
✓ Up to 36 hours of effectiveness
✓ No need to time it precisely
All three options are available to buy online or from a pharmacist - no GP appointment required
¹Based on 45% of UK men self-identifying as having an erection problem (Toluna, Viagra Connect research UK, July 2025; n=3000), applied to UK male population (~33.1 million; ONS)
²Capogrosso P, Colicchia M, Ventimiglia E, et al. One Patient Out of Four with Newly Diagnosed Erectile Dysfunction Is a Young Man. The Journal of Sexual Medicine. 2013;10(7):1833–1841.
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