Worried about your penile health? Here is a self-assessment guide for erectile dysfunction.

Many men have experienced difficulty in getting or keeping an erection at some point. Erection issues are common when one is nervous or after a drinking spree, but it should not be a cause for worry. One bad day in the bedroom is not a sign of a significant sexual health problem. But, if the symptoms persist, then it is time to find out if you have erectile dysfunction (ED).

Here is a self-assessment guide for ED:

Symptoms of ED

The ability to get and keep an erection is a complex process. The emotions, hormones, brain, blood vessels are part of the male arousal process. When all any part involved in the process is not in line, this causes a dysfunction.

Your mental state plays a vital role in your sexual health. Stress and mental problems can cause ED.1 Minor health problems and anxieties can slow down your sexual response, and sometimes cause ED. Occasional sexual problems do not signify ED.

 If you experience the following symptoms consistently, you might be dealing with ED:

  • Reduction in sexual desire
  • Inability to get an erection
  • Inability to maintain an erection

Are you at risk for ED?

The risks for ED is higher if you:

  • Are getting older
  • Have anxiety, depression, stress or other psychological conditions
  • Smoke
  • Take alcohol or other drugs
  • Are overweight or obese
  • Have cancer and undergoing radiation treatment
  • Are taking medications for high blood pressure, antidepressants or antihistamines
  • Have a nerve/artery injury that affects your ability to have an erection

 

The Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM)

If you have the symptoms and are at risk for ED, it might be the right time to take a self-assessment test. There are many self-assessment tests for ED, including the Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) questionnaire. 

SHIM has five items with each item ranks your score for each sexual issue. The first question asks you to rate your confidence in whether you can get and keep an erection. The other items on the SHIM questionnaires focus on the characteristics of your erection during sexual stimulation and activity.

The overall score for the SHIM questionnaire and other tests can tell you whether you have ED or no ED. The lowest score of 1-7 indicates severe ED, whereas a high score ranging from 22-25 indicates no ED.2

Self-tests for ED

ED can be embarrassing for individuals who do not like talking about sexual health issues. 

There are many forms of ED self-tests you can do in the comfort of your home.

The self-tests include:

Self-assessments and Penile implants for ED

The only conclusive assessment for ED is an official diagnosis from a doctor. The doctor can identify possible reasons for ED, including aging, nerve/artery problems, diabetes, stress, cancer, among other causes. Only a physician can recommend the best way forward, including medications or a penile implant for ED. Self-assessment is the first step towards understanding your condition and seeking help.

 

Links to sources use

  1. Current Diagnosis and Management of Erectile Dysfunction. NCBI-https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4394737/
  2. The Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) Questionnaire. Prostate Cancer Foundation- https://www.pcf.org/c/the-sexual-health-inventory-for-men-shim-questionnaire/