ED explained
How to know if you have erectile dysfunction
One bad night does not mean you have ED. Here is how to know if you have erectile dysfunction, what is normal, and when it is time to talk to someone.
In short: Erectile dysfunction means regularly having trouble getting or keeping an erection firm enough for satisfying sex, usually for more than a few weeks. Signs include softer erections, losing erections during sex, needing much more stimulation and fewer morning erections. Occasional difficulty is normal. A short self-check and a private consultation help you understand what is going on.
Common signs of ED
- Erections that are softer than they used to be
- Losing your erection before or during sex
- Needing much more stimulation to get hard
- Fewer or no morning erections
- Avoiding sex because you worry it will not work
What is not ED
- One or two difficult nights after drinking, stress or tiredness
- An erection that softens a little during long sex
- Less spontaneous erections as you get older
See what is a normal erection.
A quick self-check
Ask yourself:
- How often can I get an erection firm enough for sex: almost always, most times, sometimes or rarely?
- How often can I keep it until I finish?
- Do I still wake with erections?
- Has this been going on for more than a month?
If you answered sometimes or rarely, or this has lasted more than a month, it is worth looking into. The 5-question self-check on this page can help.
Physical or psychological?
If you still get firm erections when alone or in the morning but not with a partner, anxiety may be the main factor. If erections are weak in all situations, a physical cause is more likely. Read psychological vs physical erectile dysfunction.
Why it matters
ED can be an early warning sign of heart disease, high blood pressure or diabetes, sometimes years before other symptoms. A check-up of blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol is sensible.
Next steps
Our naturopaths offer discreet consultations to understand what is behind your symptoms and build a natural plan. Read erectile dysfunction treatment without pills.
Why men choose our natural approach
Walk in or consult remotely
Walk in at Buccleuch, Sandton, with parking available, or consult by phone or video from anywhere in South Africa.
Natural and non-surgical
Herbal remedies and practical guidance, with no injections or surgery.
Faster appointments
Enquiries answered 24/7, with same-day appointments often available.
Transparent pricing
Consultations are R2,500, with any remedy costs confirmed before you commit.
Private self-check: 5 quick questions
Answer these honestly before you try anything new or book. They help you describe what is happening and get more from your first consultation.
- How often can you get and keep an erection firm enough for sex: almost always, most of the time, sometimes, or rarely?
- Do you still notice morning or night-time erections?
- Have stress, poor sleep, alcohol, smoking or long hours increased recently?
- Do you take medicine for blood pressure, the heart, diabetes or mood?
- Has your interest in sex dropped noticeably over the past year?
If you answered “sometimes” or “rarely” to the first question, a consultation is a sensible next step. Morning erections that still happen are often a reassuring sign that lifestyle, stress or confidence are playing a part, which natural support can address well. A yes to question four means any remedy needs checking for interactions first.
What happens at your first consultation
- Walk in or book online, call +27 10 205 9855 or WhatsApp +27 81 823 1313. In Gauteng, walk in at 199 Vanessa Street, Buccleuch, Sandton, where parking is available. Outside Gauteng, choose a confidential phone or video consultation. Enquiries are answered 24/7.
- Talk privately with a naturopath about your symptoms, health history, lifestyle and goals.
- Receive a personalised natural plan, with any remedy costs confirmed upfront.
- Follow up in person or remotely so your progress is reviewed and your plan adjusted.
Your health and safety
Our naturopaths use natural remedies and lifestyle support, and always check your health history and current medicines first. If anything needs medical attention we tell you honestly and refer you to an appropriately registered medical professional. Avoid unregistered “enhancement” products sold online or at markets, as SAHPRA has warned that some contain hidden ingredients.
Seek urgent medical care for chest pain, an erection lasting more than four hours, sudden weakness or other sudden symptoms.
Consultation price
A consultation is R2,500, in person or remote, and your naturopath confirms any further costs before you go ahead. See our mens clinic prices for details.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if I have ED or just a bad night?
ED is a pattern lasting weeks, not one or two difficult nights after alcohol, stress or tiredness.
Is there a test for erectile dysfunction?
Questionnaires such as the erection hardness score are commonly used, along with a review of your health, medicines and lifestyle.
Can I have ED if I still get morning erections?
Yes, but morning erections suggest the physical side is working and that stress or anxiety may be playing a part.
At what age do men get ED?
It becomes more common with age, but men in their 20s and 30s can have it too, often linked to stress or lifestyle.
How much does a consultation cost?
A consultation is R2,500, and any remedy costs are confirmed with you before you go ahead.
Book your consultation today
Walk in at our Sandton practice any time, day or night, or book ahead. Outside Gauteng? Book a remote consultation.
References and further reading
- NIDDK: Symptoms and causes of erectile dysfunction
- Mayo Clinic: Erectile dysfunction, diagnosis and treatment
Reviewed by George Mulaudzi, Naturopath. This page is general information and does not replace a personal consultation. If you have chest pain, sudden symptoms or a medical emergency, seek urgent medical care.
