Erectile Dysfunction Myths

According to the NHS, erectile dysfunction (ED) is far from a rare thing. In fact, it’s so common that half of men between 40 and 70 will experience it to some degree.

So why aren’t more people talking about it? It can be easier to turn to Google than speaking to a friend, family member or clinician. The only problem is that the internet is filled with so many myths and misconceptions that you might not end up with the most reliable information.

That’s why we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions about erectile dysfunction. We’re here to bust myths, give you the facts, and help you get your confidence back.

Three key takeaways

• Erectile dysfunction is mainly caused by poor circulation to the penis, which is linked to high blood pressure and high cholesterol. However, it can also be caused by psychological or hormonal issues.
• While some medications can cause erectile dysfunction, most drugs don't contribute to ED.
• Erectile dysfunction can be treated through lifestyle changes—like addressing stress, anxiety, or alcohol use—or with medications like Viagra.

The most commonly asked erectile dysfunction myths

Below, Ian Budd, our Prescriber and Clinical Lead at Chemist2U, has answered some of the most commonly asked questions about erectile dysfunction.

Does ramipril cause erectile dysfunction?

Medications like ramipril, which is used to treat high blood pressure, may cause ED in a small number of cases. If you're taking ramipril and are experiencing ED speak to your doctor.

Can an enlarged prostate cause erectile dysfunction?

While an enlarged prostate itself doesn't directly cause ED, they share underlying vascular and neurological factors and can often occur together. Some treatments for an enlarged prostate can cause ED. Always discuss symptoms of an enlarged prostate with your GP, whether they lead to ED or not.

According to the NHS, erectile dysfunction (ED) is far from a rare thing. In fact, it’s so common that half of men between 40 and 70 will experience it to some degree.

So why aren’t more people talking about it? It can be easier to turn to Google than speaking to a friend, family member or clinician. The only problem is that the internet is filled with so many myths and misconceptions that you might not end up with the most reliable information.

That’s why we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions about erectile dysfunction. We’re here to bust myths, give you the facts, and help you get your confidence back.

Three key takeaways

• Erectile dysfunction is mainly caused by poor circulation to the penis, which is linked to high blood pressure and high cholesterol. However, it can also be caused by psychological or hormonal issues.
• While some medications can cause erectile dysfunction, most drugs don't contribute to ED.
• Erectile dysfunction can be treated through lifestyle changes—like addressing stress, anxiety, or alcohol use—or with medications like Viagra.

The most commonly asked erectile dysfunction myths

Below, Ian Budd, our Prescriber and Clinical Lead at Chemist2U, has answered some of the most commonly asked questions about erectile dysfunction.

Does ramipril cause erectile dysfunction?

Medications like ramipril, which is used to treat high blood pressure, may cause ED in a small number of cases. If you're taking ramipril and are experiencing ED speak to your doctor.

Can an enlarged prostate cause erectile dysfunction?

While an enlarged prostate itself doesn't directly cause ED, they share underlying vascular and neurological factors and can often occur together. Some treatments for an enlarged prostate can cause ED. Always discuss symptoms of an enlarged prostate with your GP, whether they lead to ED or not.