See a health professional if erection problems occur with:

• Any type of injury to the back, legs, buttocks, groin, penis, or testicles
• A loss of pubic or armpit hair and breast enlargement

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See a health professional within a week or two if erection problems occur more than 25% of the time and the problem:

• Occurs with a persistent backache
• Occurs after you start taking a new medication or change your dosage
• Affects your self-image or sense of well-being
• Has not improved despite self-care

Watch and wait if you’ve had a single episode of an erection problem. It could be a temporary, easily reversible problem. Do not expect it to recur. If possible, forget about it and anticipate a more successful experience next time. Discuss the problem and fears or anxieties with your partner. However, if you are having persistent, bothersome erection problems, talk to your doctor. Men wait an average of five years before seeking treatment for erection problems, and this is unnecessary.

Seek care immediately if an erection lasts longer than four hours after you use an erection-producing medication. This problem, called priapism, can cause permanent damage to your penis.

See a health professional who has experience and interest in dealing with erection problems. Urologists are specialised in this area, and your GP will be able to refer you to one.

Reviewed by Dr Werner Botha Specialist Urologist, Cape Town Medi-clinic.
 

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