What to Expect from Your Doctor’s Visit
Talking to a urologist who understands the medical, physical, and psychological effects of erectile dysfunction is your first step to returning to your sexual self. Although discussing ED can feel embarrassing or very personal, a urologist understands what you are going through and how to help. Discovering the cause of your ED is vital to your physical and psychological health. Your doctor will work with you to devise a comprehensive plan of care that is personalized to your individual needs and condition.
Your Initial Visit
Diagnosing the cause of your ED is the first step to developing a successful treatment plan and can often be done in 1 or 2 visits. Your urologist will ask you a series of detailed questions about your erectile function and sexual health and activity. Talking about your erectile dysfunction or sex may feel uncomfortable at first, but your doctor is accustomed to discussing ED and is there to help you get the treatment you need.
The doctor will ask you questions like:
- Your medical history and any chronic conditions you have such as diabetes, vascular disease, prior surgeries, cancer, and any psychological conditions you may experience, including depression
- Your prescription medication use, including medications used to treat high blood pressure
- Over-the-counter medications you take
- Your use of alcohol and if you are a smoker
- Your sexual history, whether or not you are married, etc.
Your physician may also perform a physical exam that includes checking your blood pressure and the circulation to your penis. He or she may also perform a digital rectal exam to check your prostate if necessary, and order blood work and other lab tests to rule out any chronic health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and low testosterone.
Talk to your doctor candidly about your erectile dysfunction and medical history. Together, you and your physician will be able to find a treatment option that works best for you, and you'll soon find yourself on the road to recovery. Our ED specialists help virtually all men return to their normal, sexual selves and we can help you, too.