Can Low Testosterone Cause Erectile Dysfunction?

How testosterone relates to erections, libido and overall sexual performance.

Relationship

Testosterone strongly affects sexual desire and morning erections. Its relationship with erection firmness is important but not the only factor, because blood flow and nerves are also essential.

Diagnosis

Testing is considered when ED occurs with low libido, fatigue, reduced morning erections, infertility, obesity, diabetes or other hormone symptoms.

Treatment planning

If testosterone is low, treatment depends on cause and fertility goals. Some men need lifestyle correction, some need pituitary or testicular evaluation and selected men may need hormone therapy.

Do not assume

Many men with ED have normal testosterone. Treating the wrong cause delays effective care.

This article is for patient education only and does not replace consultation, examination, investigations or individualized medical advice.