Diagnosing Impotence: Q&A with Your Doctor

Many men who suffer from some kind of sexual impotence will often resist getting medical attention because they are embarrassed and sometimes even ashamed by their condition. Male sexual impotence is exceedingly common in the United States and around the world. There really is nothing to be embarrassed or ashamed about. Your doctor has probably dealt with many cases of sexual dysfunction. If you are feeling anxious about getting medical attention, it may help you feel better to prepare for your initial examination. Here are the basic questions your doctor will probably ask in order to make a positive diagnosis.

1. Your doctor will want to know the current state of your sex life. This is a basic health question that should render no embarrassment on either patient or doctor. This is your first opportunity to explain to the doctor the problems you have been having. There's no need to be graphic if you don't want to. Simply let your doctor know the basic problem at hand, such as "I can't seem to sustain erection for more than a few moments" or "I can't achieve an erection."

2. Your doctor will want to know about your current health and health history. You will be asked the standard questions about your health history. The doctor will ask about any history of injuries, including injuries received during pelvic surgery, prostate surgery, radiation, or any other source of possible trauma. They will want to know about any surgeries you may have had.

3. Your doctor will want to know about any medications you may be taking. They will want a detailed list of every medication you are taking, or have taken during the last year. This includes any dietary supplements and vitamins. Many patients overlook telling their doctors about any dietary supplements they may be taken, mistakenly believing that they are not relevant. When the doctor is trying to make a diagnosis, nearly nothing is irrelevant.

4. Your doctor will also want to know about your sex history. They will want to know if you have experienced any bouts with sexual impotence in the past. They will want to know if you are satisfied with your sexual life. If your problem appears more complex, they may ask for more specific information about what happens when you attempt to have sexual intercourse. They need a complete and clear description in order to make the right diagnosis.

5. Your doctor will want to know about lifestyle factors that may affect sexual function. Your doctor will want to know if you smoke cigarettes, drink excessively or take part in substance abuse. All of these lifestyle factors can contribute to the onset of sexual dysfunction, so it is important that you be honest with your doctor.

6. Your doctor will want to know about stress or other factors that may be affecting your sexual life. Male sexual dysfunction can be the result of stress, so your doctor will want to know if there are any stressors in your life that may be contributing to the problem.

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