Common erectile dysfunction myths, debunked

Key takeaways

• Erectile dysfunction is very prevalent worldwide, but it’s still a condition that people find difficult or embarrassing to talk about. There are many myths and misconceptions about the condition.
• While some people believe that ED only affects older people, it actually affects a large proportion of men younger than 40. Some believe that Viagra is the only way to manage the condition, but there are actually several treatment methods.
• While many people report feelings of shame about ED, it’s very common and is nothing to feel ashamed of. Reaching out to a healthcare professional can help you access the treatment you need.

Overview

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a very common condition, but misinformation about it is still widespread. Some people find the condition difficult or shameful to talk about because it’s so personal, but this can lead to myths and misunderstandings going uncorrected.

Several widespread beliefs about ED are actually just common myths, and these myths can help perpetuate the stigma surrounding ED. Learning how to differentiate the myths from the facts may help you feel more confident in seeking treatment for your condition.

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Myth 1: Erectile dysfunction only happens to older people

Fact: Erectile dysfunction can affect anyone of reproductive age, although it does become more common as you get older.

Many people believe that erectile dysfunction (ED) only happens to older people, but this isn’t necessarily the case. While up to 70% of men over 70 report experiencing ED, about 40% of men are affected by age 40.

What’s more, a 2025 review of ED in young adults reports some study findings that the prevalence of ED in men in the United States under 40 was 14.2%. The review also noted that some studies believe that ED in your men is underestimated and could be as high as 35%.

In fact, a 2024 study review noted a 31-fold increase in adolecent males experiencing erectile dysfunction, with the majority of cases linked to mental health factors.

Therefore, although increased age may be a factor contributing to ED development, it is far from the only factor, and it can affect young adults, too.

Myth 2: It’s embarrassing to have ED

Fact: ED is a medical condition like any other, and there is no need to feel ashamed about it.

Despite the fact that ED is a very common condition worldwide, many people still feel embarrassed or ashamed about it. In fact, a 2023 review reports that people experiencing ED are more likely to experience depression, as well as report feelings of emasculation, low self-esteem, isolation or loneliness, and catastrophizing.

However, the relationship between depression and ED may be reciprocal, meaning that while ED can contribute to depression, the depression may worsen ED, too. This means that it’s important to look after your mental health as well as your physical health.

Part of this involves reducing the stigma around ED — by learning more about the condition, debunking misconceptions, and talking openly about the condition.

Some 2023 research suggests that the stigma surrounding conditions like ED is a barrier to seeking care, ultimately worsening feelings of embarrassment or depression and creating a vicious cycle. However, taking steps to treat your ED can help reduce this stigma and protect your mental health.

Online care services, including Optum Perks Online Care, may make getting treatment easier. With these services, you can submit an online form answering a few questions about your symptoms, and a US-licensed healthcare professional will respond soon after to prescribe a treatment plan.

Myth 3: ED means you’re not attracted to your partner

Fact: ED has many potential underlying causes that have nothing to do with attraction.

Occasional ED may be linked to circumstantial factors like alcohol, tiredness, or even a lack of attraction to your sexual partner. However, the vast majority of repeated ED cases are linked to a variety of other factors that have nothing to do with your relationship. These can be split into different categories:

• Underlying health conditions: ED is often caused by an underlying condition like diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, or low testosterone.
• Medications: ED can be a side effect of medications, such as antidepressants, blood pressure medications, or sedatives.
• Mental health conditions: Depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem can all contribute to ED.
• Lifestyle factors: Certain lifestyle factors may influence ED, such as drinking too much alcohol, smoking, or using illegal drugs.

Myth 4: ED can only be treated with Viagra

Fact: There are many different treatment methods for ED, and you can work with a doctor to find one that is right for you.

Viagra is a common medication for ED, and it may be one of the most well-known drugs for the condition, cropping up time and again in media and advertising. But it’s far from the only option if you have ED. ED treatments can be split into different categories:

• Lifestyle strategies: Doctors often suggest lifestyle modifications to help manage ED. These include quitting smoking if you smoke, reducing alcohol consumption if you drink, maintaining a moderate weight, and following a healthy diet and exercise regimen.
• Counseling: As ED is so often linked with mental health conditions, counseling may help you manage the anxiety, stress, or depression contributing to your symptoms.
• Medications: In some cases, medications are the right option to manage ED. These commonly include phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE-5) inhibitors like sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), and vardenafil (Levitra). Doctors might also recommend testosterone therapy if your ED is caused by low testosterone.
• Medical devices: In severe cases, doctors might recommend medical devices. These include vacuum erection devices (VEDs), also known as penis pumps, or penile implants.

It’s also important to note that if your ED is caused by an underlying health condition, doctors will aim to treat this condition first. For example, if your ED is linked to diabetes, managing the diabetes with insulin may help reduce ED.

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Summary

Erectile dysfunction is a very common condition worldwide, but there is still a lot of stigma surrounding it. This leads to a lot of misconceptions becoming widespread, which can, in turn, perpetuate the stigma. Knowing more about these myths can help reduce the shame surrounding the condition.

If you’re experiencing ED, know that you’re not alone and there’s nothing to be ashamed of. Consider speaking with a doctor to seek treatment.

Download the free Optum Perks Discount Card to save up to 80% on many prescription medications. Plus, you can now get them delivered to your home in as little as 3 days. Search for your medication here.