Erectile dysfunction
Rheumatoid Arthritis and Erectile Dysfunction: What Men Should Know
Rheumatoid arthritis and erectile dysfunction often go together. Learn why, how pain and fatigue affect sex, and practical, natural steps that help.
In short: Rheumatoid arthritis and erectile dysfunction are linked. Research suggests men with RA are more likely to have erection problems, because of inflammation, blood vessel effects, pain, fatigue, low mood and some medicines. Good RA control, heart health and practical changes to how you have sex can help.
How rheumatoid arthritis affects sexual health
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the joints, causing pain, swelling and stiffness. It affects more women than men, but men with RA often find it affects their sex life in ways they find hard to talk about.
A meta-analysis published in The Journal of Rheumatology in 2018 found that men with RA had a higher risk of erectile dysfunction than men without it. Several factors work together.
Why RA can lead to erection problems
Inflammation and blood vessels
RA causes inflammation throughout the body, not just in the joints. Long-term inflammation can damage blood vessel linings and raise the risk of heart disease, which affects blood flow to the penis.
Pain and stiffness
Painful hips, knees, hands or back can make sex uncomfortable and limit positions. Many men start avoiding intimacy, and the worry about pain can itself affect erections.
Fatigue
Tiredness is one of the most common RA symptoms. When you are exhausted, desire drops and erections can be harder to get.
Mood
Living with a long-term condition can lead to low mood and anxiety, which both affect desire and erections. Read psychological vs physical erectile dysfunction.
Medicines
Some medicines used alongside RA treatment, such as steroids, certain pain medicines or blood pressure tablets, can affect hormones, mood or erections. Never stop a prescribed medicine on your own. Speak to your rheumatologist or prescriber about side effects.
What helps
Keep your RA well controlled
Good disease control reduces inflammation, pain and fatigue. Work with your rheumatologist, and tell them if sex has become difficult. It is a valid part of your quality of life.
Plan intimacy around your energy
- Choose times of day when you have the least stiffness and the most energy.
- A warm shower or bath beforehand can loosen joints.
- Use pillows for support and choose positions that take pressure off painful joints.
- Remember that intimacy does not have to mean penetration every time.
Protect your heart and blood vessels
Because RA raises heart risk, look after your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar. Stop smoking, which worsens both RA and erections. Stay active with gentle exercise such as walking, swimming or cycling.
Eat to support your body
An anti-inflammatory eating pattern with vegetables, fruit, oily fish, nuts and olive oil supports overall health. See our guide to the Mediterranean diet for erectile dysfunction and olive oil benefits for men.
Talk to your partner
Explain what hurts and what helps. Partners often worry about causing pain, which can lead both of you to avoid closeness. Read how to support a partner with erectile dysfunction.
How a naturopath can help
A naturopath can work alongside your rheumatologist, supporting diet, sleep, stress, weight and natural circulation support. We always check your medicines first, because some herbs and supplements interact with RA treatments or affect the immune system.
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.
- Do you struggle to get or keep an erection firm enough for sex more than half the time?
- Have you noticed fewer or weaker morning erections?
- Do you have high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol or a heart condition?
- Do you smoke, vape, drink heavily or feel under constant stress?
- Is it affecting your confidence, relationship or desire for intimacy?
A yes to question three, or erection problems with chest pain or breathlessness, means you should also see an appropriately registered medical professional. For lifestyle-related concerns, a naturopath can help with natural support alongside medical care.
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 rheumatoid arthritis cause erectile dysfunction?
Men with RA have a higher risk of erection problems, linked to inflammation, blood vessel effects, pain, fatigue, mood and some medicines.
What sex positions are easier with arthritis?
Positions that avoid pressure on painful joints are usually easier, often with pillows for support. Side-lying positions suit many people.
Can RA medicines affect erections?
Some medicines used alongside RA treatment can affect hormones, mood or erections. Speak to your prescriber and never stop medicines yourself.
Does exercise help with RA and erections?
Gentle, regular exercise supports joints, heart health, mood and energy, which all help sexual function.
Can a naturopath help with RA?
RA needs medical management. A naturopath can support diet, stress, sleep and sexual wellbeing alongside your rheumatologist.
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
- The Journal of Rheumatology: Erectile dysfunction in rheumatoid arthritis, meta-analysis (2018)
- NHS: Rheumatoid arthritis
- NIDDK: Symptoms and causes of erectile dysfunction
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.
