Impotence - Erectile Dysfunction

How is the condition diagnosed?

A medical evaluation is done when a man expresses concerns about erectile dysfunction to his healthcare provider. The evaluation may include a physical and psychological exam, and a written questionnaire on past sexual experiences. Lab tests are done to rule out certain diseases.

Sometimes a test called nocturnal penile tumescence, or erection self test, is performed. This is done to see if erections occur during sleep. If the test shows that erections occur, it can indicate the problem is mental rather than physical.

Another test, called color phase ultrasonography, also may be done. This evaluates blood flow to the penis.