Erectile Dysfunction Treatment in Singapore
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition that can impact quality of life, relationships, and overall health. While occasional difficulties with erections are normal, persistent ED may signal an underlying medical issue such as hormonal imbalance, diabetes, or cardiovascular disease.
Currently, ED is the most common form of sexual dysfunction in men. Its prevalence increases with age, affecting about 18% of individuals aged 50 to 59 years old and up to 37% of those between 70 and 75 years old.
At LG Endocrinology, we provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment to address both the physical and hormonal causes of ED. If you are experiencing ongoing symptoms, our clinic is here to support you with discreet, personalised care designed to restore your confidence and well-being.
What Is Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction (ED) refers to the consistent or recurrent inability to achieve or maintain an erection firm enough for sexual activity. An estimated 51.3% of men over the age of 30 in Singapore experience some degree of ED, according to a local study published in the Singapore Medical Journal1.
Occasional difficulty with erections is common and usually not a cause for concern. However, ongoing or persistent difficulties may signal an underlying health issue. ED can affect confidence, relationships, and overall well-being if left untreated.
In some cases, men may still experience erections at other times, such as during sleep or upon waking, but find it difficult during sexual activity. ED may also occur alongside a reduced libido. Men experiencing persistent symptoms are encouraged to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
What Causes Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction can stem from physical, psychological, or lifestyle-related factors, and often results from a combination of these influences.
Physical causes
- Heart and blood vessel conditions: Heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, atherosclerosis, vascular disease, diabetes, smoking
- Metabolic and hormonal issues: Diabetes, metabolic syndrome, obesity, low testosterone, high prolactin levels, thyroid function abnormalities, abnormal cortisol levels
- Neurological conditions: Stroke, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis
- Local penile factors: Peyronie’s disease, cavernous fibrosis, penile fracture
- Cancer treatments: Major surgery or radiotherapy of the prostate
- Sleep conditions: Sleep apnoea and related disorders
Medication-related causes
Some prescription medications may list erectile dysfunction as a side effect, including:
- Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications
- Blood pressure medications
- Chemotherapy drugs
- Parkinson’s disease medications
- Prostate cancer medications
- Antiarrhythmics
- Sedatives
- Muscle relaxants
Substance-related causes
Excessive use of substances can impair erectile function by suppressing the central nervous system and damaging blood vessels. These include:
- Alcohol
- Nicotine
- Opioids
- Cocaine, amphetamines, barbiturates, marijuana, methadone
Psychological causes
The brain plays an important role in initiating sexual arousal and erections. Mental health and emotional well-being can strongly influence erectile function. Common causes include:
- Depression and anxiety
- Stress
- Relationship or intimacy issues
- Low self-esteem
- Fear of sexual activity (genophobia)
What Are the Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction?
It is normal for men to have difficulty getting or keeping an erection occasionally. However, ED is different because the symptoms are persistent and may worsen over time. Common symptoms include:
- Difficulty getting an erection
- Difficulty maintaining an erection during sexual intercourse
- Reduced sexual desire
- Partial erections, where erections are not as firm as before
- Requiring more stimulation than usual
- Complete inability to get an erection
How Is Erectile Dysfunction Diagnosed in Singapore?
Erectile dysfunction is diagnosed through a stepwise approach that considers both physical and psychological factors. Assessment may include medical history, physical examination, lab tests, psychosocial evaluation, and specialised investigations.
A thorough history is the first step in diagnosing ED. Discussing medical conditions, medications, and sexual activity helps determine the severity and type of ED, including problems with desire, erection, ejaculation, or orgasm. Identifying drug use is particularly important, as certain medications commonly cause ED.
A physical exam can uncover signs of underlying health issues that contribute to ED. For example:
- Lack of penile sensitivity may suggest a neurological disorder.
- Changes in secondary sex characteristics, such as reduced body hair or breast enlargement, may point to hormonal imbalances.
- Weak pulses in the peripheries may indicate circulatory problems.
Blood and urine tests evaluate hormone levels and screen for conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, and lipid abnormalities. General health screenings, including liver and kidney function tests, full blood counts, and lipid profiles, also help identify systemic factors contributing to ED.
Since psychological and relationship factors can contribute to ED, a psychosocial assessment is valuable. This may involve interviews or questionnaires to identify issues such as stress, anxiety, or depression. In some cases, a partner’s perspective is also considered to gain a clearer understanding of expectations and challenges during intimacy.
When needed, additional tests can provide further insight into the underlying cause of ED. These may include:
- Penile ultrasonography: This test helps to evaluate any issues with the blood flow in the penile arteries and veins.
- Neurological assessments: Nerve damage that may interfere with erectile function can be identified through these examinations.
- Vascular tests: In some cases, contrast dye is injected to help assess blood circulation in the penis.
What Are the Treatment Options for Erectile Dysfunction in Singapore?
Erectile dysfunction can be effectively managed with a range of treatments tailored to its underlying causes. In this section, we will cover some treatment options, including lifestyle changes, medications, medical devices, and psychological support. Your doctor will recommend the most suitable option based on your individual condition and needs.
Making positive lifestyle changes can significantly improve erectile function. Quitting smoking, reducing alcohol intake, losing excess weight, and exercising regularly can support better blood flow and overall sexual health.
Oral medication, also known as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, is a possible treatment for ED. These drugs, such as sildenafil, tadalafil, and vardenafil, help to enhance blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation.
However, these medications should not be used by men taking nitrate-based heart medicines, as the combination can cause dangerously low blood pressure. Always speak to your doctor before starting these medications to ensure they are safe and suitable for you.
ED may also be treated with topical creams or penile injections. Creams can help improve local blood flow, while injections deliver medications such as prostaglandin E1, papaverine, or phentolamine directly into the penis to trigger an erection.
Mechanical aids, such as vacuum devices, are another possible option. These devices draw blood into the penis, and a constriction band placed at the base helps maintain a firm erection during intercourse.
Low Intensity Shock Therapy (LIST) is an emerging technology for the treatment of ED. t uses low-intensity shock waves to stimulate new blood vessel growth in the penis, improving circulation and erections. Treatment typically involves 6–12 sessions, each lasting 15–20 minutes, and is generally painless apart from a mild tapping sensation.
As LIST is still being studied and is not yet considered a standard treatment for ED, we do not currently offer this therapy in our clinic. However, where appropriate, you may be referred to trusted partner clinics for further assessment and discussion of suitability.
When stress, anxiety, or relationship difficulties play a role in ED, psychological therapy can be an important part of treatment. Counselling or sex therapy helps reduce performance anxiety, build confidence, and strengthen intimacy. Therapy is often most effective when combined with medical treatments and partner support.
Surgery is usually considered only when other treatments are ineffective. Options include penile implants, artery reconstruction, and vein ligation to improve or maintain blood flow in the penis. Penile implants come with the risks of surgery, while vascular procedures are generally reserved for younger men with traumatic injuries.
Our Trusted Andrologist
Dr Linsey Gani
Consultant Endocrinologist
MBBS (Aust), B Med Sci, FRACP (Endocrine), FAMS (S’pore), MPH (Harvard)
Languages: English, Mandarin, Bahasa Indonesia
Dr Linsey Gani is an experienced endocrinologist trained in the diagnosis and treatment of andrological disorders. She is a member of the Endocrine and Metabolic Society of Singapore (EMSS) and a Fellow of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore.
Why Choose Us?
We address both physical and underlying hormonal or health-related causes of ED, offering a thorough, evidence-based approach with empathy and understanding.
We recognise that erectile dysfunction is a private and emotional matter. Consultations are conducted with the utmost discretion, ensuring your comfort and confidence.
Dr Gani carefully considers each individual’s unique situation to provide tailored care and treatment plans for erectile dysfunction.
FAQs About Erectile Dysfunction
Is erectile dysfunction common?
Erectile dysfunction is common, especially in men over 40. While occasional difficulty with erections is usually not a cause for concern, it is advisable to see a GP or andrologist if the problem persists or happens regularly.
Is my testosterone low?
You may have low testosterone if your body is not producing enough of the male sex hormone, which is important for sexual function, muscle mass, bone density, and overall well-being. Symptoms that can suggest low testosterone include:
- Reduced sex drive
- Erectile dysfunction
- Loss of body or pubic hair
- Shrinking testicles
- Fatigue or low energy
- Low mood or poor concentration
- Increased body fat
- Reduced muscle mass
- Enlarged breast tissue (gynecomastia)
If you are experiencing these symptoms, book an appointment with us today to get your testosterone levels checked and explore possible treatment options.
What is “Andropause” in men?
Andropause is a controversial term and can be misleading, as it implies a sudden change similar to menopause in women. In reality, testosterone levels decline gradually with age. This decrease is a well-recognised medical process, but it varies widely among men and can lead to different symptoms in each individual.
As testosterone falls over time, many men begin to notice physical and emotional changes in their late 40s to early 50s. These shifts can differ greatly from person to person, reflecting the highly individual nature of age-related hormonal change. Common symptoms include:
- Mood swings and irritability
- Reduced sex drive or erectile dysfunction
- Loss of muscle mass and strength
- Fat redistribution
- Low energy and poor concentration
- Sleep problems
Unlike female menopause, testosterone levels decline gradually with age, so most symptoms are not caused by a sudden hormone drop. In some cases, testosterone deficiency may contribute, but lifestyle and psychological factors such as stress, poor sleep, unhealthy diet, or depression are often the main causes.
If you are experiencing these symptoms, LG Endocrinology can help assess your hormone levels and provide personalised guidance on managing andropause effectively.
When should I see a doctor for erectile dysfunction?
If you experience ongoing difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection, it is important to seek medical advice. At LG Endocrinology, Dr Linsey Gani can assess your symptoms, identify any underlying hormonal or health-related causes, and guide you towards the most suitable treatment options. She is experienced in managing men’s health and related endocrine conditions to support your overall well-being.
Are there risks associated with erectile dysfunction treatment?
Yes, options for erectile dysfunction can carry certain risks and side effects. Oral medications may cause headaches, facial flushing, or dizziness. Penile injections or topical treatments can sometimes lead to local pain, bruising, or, in rare cases, prolonged and painful erections (priapism).
It is important to discuss your medical history and treatment options with your doctor, who can recommend the safest and most suitable approach for your needs.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for general education. It does not replace personalised medical advice. Please consult your doctor for guidance on the medications that may be appropriate for you.
1 Retrieved from The Straits Times
Book an Appointment
Fill out the form below to schedule your appointment.
Dr. Linsey Gani Endocrinology
10 Sinaran Drive, #10-08, Novena Medical Center, Singapore 307506
+65 6397 7101
+65 9128 7480
Monday - Friday
08:30 - 12:30
14:00 - 17:30
09:00-12:00
Closed
Monday - Friday
08:30 - 12:30
14:00 - 17:30
09:00 - 12:00
Closed