Men’s health

Erectile dysfunction (ED): virtual care options

Erectile dysfunction, or ED, means having trouble getting or keeping an erection firm enough for sex. It is common, especially with age, and it is nothing to be embarrassed about. ED can be linked to blood flow and heart health, stress, sleep, or other conditions, so it is worth talking about with a provider.

See virtual care for ED

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Common symptoms

What people often notice. Only a provider can tell you what’s causing yours.

Trouble getting an erection
Trouble keeping an erection during sex
Erections that are less firm than before
Lower interest in sex
Stress or worry about sexual performance

What a virtual visit may involve

Care is decided by the provider, based on your situation.

A private online visit where a licensed provider asks about your symptoms, health history, and current medicines
A provider may ask about your heart health, blood pressure, and diabetes, since these can be linked to ED
Prescriptions, if appropriate, can be sent to a pharmacy near you
Follow-up visits to check how things are going

When in-person care may be better

Urgent care, your doctor, or a clinic can examine and test you.

You have heart disease, chest pain with activity, or very high or very low blood pressure
A provider wants lab work, a blood pressure check, or a physical exam
ED came on after an injury or surgery
Symptoms have not improved with treatment

When to go to the ER

Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if you have:

An erection that lasts more than 4 hours
Chest pain, pressure, or shortness of breath during or after sex
Pain, swelling, or bruising of the penis after an injury
Sudden weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, or fainting

Ready to explore a virtual visit for ED?

Check availability, pricing, and care details directly with the provider. You’ll leave ER.com when you continue.

Continue to provider

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Common questions

ED, answered.

General information, not medical advice. A provider can answer questions about your situation.

Can I get ED treatment online?

Yes, many people talk with a provider about ED through a virtual visit. The provider reviews your history and medicines and may prescribe treatment if it is appropriate and safe for you.

Is ED a sign of heart problems?

It can be. ED and heart disease share some of the same risk factors, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and smoking. A provider may check on your heart health or suggest an in-person checkup.

Is ED common in younger men?

ED is more common with age, but younger men can have it too. Stress, sleep, alcohol, and other health issues can play a role, and a provider can help look at possible causes.

This is not for emergencies.

For life-threatening symptoms, severe chest pain, trouble breathing, or immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.