Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of those topics that pops up everywhere—in group chats, Instagram stories, and whispered conversations over drinks. Clinically, ED is defined as “the persistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance.” In everyday conversation? Often described simply as unable to lift it. And here’s the thing. It is much more common than people think.
Globally, ED is on the rise. In 2025, the expected number of people dealing with ED is over 300 million. Two decades ago, that number was about half that, about 150 million. This steady increase does not simply reflect an aging population. It also highlights modern stress, lifestyle changes, sleep quality, substance use and underlying health issues such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. all of these can affect sexual function.
What’s important to remember is that ED is not just a “performance problem.” It is a sign of health. Erections rely on a complex balance of hormones, blood flow, nerve function and psychological well-being. This means that when ED occurs, it can sometimes be an early warning sign of something deeper, such as heart disease or depression.
So, if you’re dealing with ED, you’re not alone – and you don’t have to fight in silence. Talking about it, getting checked and addressing lifestyle or medical factors can make a huge difference. Because sexual health is real health, and the more we normalize these conversations, the better off everyone is.
Natural causes of erectile dysfunction
Physical health conditions are some of the most commonly researched and understood risk factors for DM. Some of these include:
Aside from chronic conditions, infections can also play a role in erectile function. Even short-term illnesses such as a cold or the flu can temporarily affect erections.
And then there’s COVID-19, which hasn’t just messed with our lungs and social lives. Research shows it can cause ED both in the short and long termpossibly fueling inflammation and restricting blood flow. COVID-19 highlights that even temporary illnesses can have lasting consequences, but little is known about how these infections create and affect overall health.
Mental health and ED
As sexual health professionals, we know that there is a strong connection between mind and body. ED can be caused by stress, anxiety, relationship conflicts or concerns about sex performance. Depression, in particular, has been strongly associated with ED. One study found that Depressed patients are almost 40% more likely to have DM than non-depressed men.
Erectile dysfunction and lifestyle factors
Daily habits matter too. Research shows that there are certain lifestyle factors that could put you at higher risk for ED.
Broader implications of ED
ED doesn’t just matter in the bedroom. It has much wider implications that may affect students or clients you work with.
Implications for sexual health professionals
Early detection: ED may represent the first symptom of other health conditions. Early recognition not only supports physical health, but also helps individuals navigate the relational and emotional challenges that accompany ED.
Open dialog: Shame and stigma often silence conversations about ED, leading to delays in diagnosis and care. Creating a safe space for discussion is essential.
Destigmatizing ED: Reducing stigma helps reporting, diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Assessment: Comprehensive assessments in different domains can support individuals to understand and navigate ED.
Custom Management: Treatment approaches may include lifestyle modifications, medication, therapy, or couple-based approaches, depending on the underlying contributors.
Empower people through education: Many cases of ED are affected by gaps in sexual knowledge, unrealistic expectations or poor sexual techniques. Ongoing education (for both clients and professionals) is key. SHA offers events, resourcesand certification programs is designed to strengthen these skills and improve the quality of care.
conclusions
Erectile dysfunction is not just a sexual concern, but a broader indicator of physical, psychological and relational health. For sexual health professionals, this means going beyond symptom management to holistic care. addressing stigma, encouraging open dialogue, and recognizing ED as a quality-of-life issue and potential indicator of underlying disease.
By integrating research knowledge with patient-centered approaches, practitioners can support individuals to navigate ED, improve health outcomes, and foster more open conversations about a shared global sexual health challenge.
If you’re passionate about helping others on their sexual health journeys, explore SHA’s certification programs, designed to equip you with the expertise and tools to make a meaningful impact in this field.
And don’t miss it SHA Conference on Male Sexual Health and Function in Decemberwhere global experts will discuss topics such as erectile dysfunction, testosterone and hormones, and inclusive care for queer, transgender and non-binary clients assigned male at birth. You’ll gain practical knowledge to help clients navigate both physical and emotional challenges while building trust, connection, and a healthier sex life.
