How to prepare for your
erectile dysfunction appointment

Tips to prepare for your appointment

A little preparation helps us make the most of our time together and ensures we build a plan that reflects your goals, your health and your circumstances.

You do not need a perfect explanation, but it helps if you have briefly reflected on:

• When the difficulties started and whether they came on suddenly or gradually.
• Whether things vary depending on the situation or context.
• Any patterns you have noticed — stress, tiredness, alcohol, new medications or life events.

Even a simple account in your own words is far more useful than a textbook-style description.

Erections are sensitive to what the rest of the body is experiencing. Please include:

• Regular prescription medications (for example blood pressure tablets or antidepressants).
• Gym supplements or "boosters", including testosterone boosters.
• Recreational substances, if relevant to you.

Photos of packets on your phone are absolutely fine if that is easier than writing a list.

If you already have results, the following are particularly helpful:

• Testosterone profile.
• Cholesterol and cardiovascular risk markers.
• HbA1c (diabetes screening) and thyroid function.

If you do not have any tests, that is absolutely fine — we can organise everything from scratch.

Erectile dysfunction is often linked to wider wellbeing. Before the appointment, consider:

• Sleep quality and whether you wake feeling rested.
• Exercise patterns or recent changes in activity.
• Smoking or vaping habits.
• Alcohol use and how it relates to your sexual function.
• Stress levels and any recent life changes.

This helps us frame the discussion holistically, rather than focusing on the penis in isolation.

Not everyone wishes to discuss this, and you choose what feels right. If useful, you might reflect on:

• Performance anxiety or fear of "letting someone down".
• Changes in sexual desire — yours, your partner's, or both.
• Communication or emotional context within your relationship(s).

Some men come alone, some with a partner — both are welcome, and there is no obligation either way.

A short note on your phone describing how things vary week-by-week can be useful, but never obligatory. If you already use Carebit, you can upload relevant files securely there.

If a penile Doppler scan or certain tests are likely, it may be helpful to avoid PDE5 inhibitors (such as Viagra or Cialis) for 48 hours beforehand. If you are unsure whether this applies to you, ask in advance.

Many patients feel more at ease with a short list prepared in advance. Typical questions include:

• "Is this more physical, psychological, or a mixture of both?"
• "Does this increase my risk of heart disease or other conditions?"
• "What are the options beyond tablets?"
• "Is this reversible, or how much improvement can I realistically expect?"

Your questions help me focus on what matters most to you, rather than what is simply standard.

During our appointment, my role is to create a space that is calm, respectful and genuinely useful. In practical terms, this means I will:

• Listen carefully to your account, without rushing or pre-judgement.
• Explain the mechanisms behind what you are experiencing in clear, everyday language.
• Examine you only if necessary, and always with your consent.
• Outline investigations, if any are needed, and why they are being suggested.
• Build a treatment plan tailored to you — not a one-size-fits-all solution.