Causes
Is erectile dysfunction hereditary? What your family history means
If your father or brothers had erection problems, you may wonder whether the same will happen to you. So is erectile dysfunction hereditary?
In short: ED itself is not passed down directly, but genes play a part. Research has linked certain genetic variants to a higher risk of ED, and conditions that run in families, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol, raise ED risk. Lifestyle has a big influence, so a family history is a reason to look after your health early, not a fixed outcome.
What research shows
A large genetic study found a variant near a gene called SIM1 that was linked to a higher risk of ED, independent of other risk factors. Twin studies also suggest genes explain part of the difference between men.
Family conditions that raise ED risk
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Type 2 diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Obesity
- Depression
If these run in your family, your risk of ED is likely higher.
What you inherit besides genes
Families share habits: diet, activity, smoking and drinking patterns. These often matter as much as genes.
What you can control
- Regular exercise, see walking for erectile dysfunction
- A heart-friendly diet, see foods to avoid for erectile dysfunction
- A healthy weight
- No smoking and limited alcohol
- Regular checks of blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol
Early warning signs to watch
- Softer erections or fewer morning erections
- Needing more stimulation
Read how to know if you have erectile dysfunction.
Natural support
If ED runs in your family, our naturopaths can help you build a natural prevention plan, or support you if changes have already started.
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
Can erectile dysfunction be inherited?
Not directly, but genes and family conditions such as heart disease and diabetes increase risk.
If my father had ED, will I?
Not necessarily. Lifestyle has a strong influence, and early healthy habits lower your risk.
Is there a gene for ED?
Research has found genetic variants linked to higher risk, but no single gene causes it.
How can I prevent ED if it runs in my family?
Exercise, keep a healthy weight, avoid smoking, limit alcohol and get regular health checks.
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.
