Understanding the causes of erectile dysfunction and acknowledging that nobody is to blame for the problem is a great starting point. Even then, discussing it with your partner can still be intimidating but we have compiled suggestions on how you can be supportive of each other while openly discussing how both parties are feeling.

Starting the ED conversation

To help you get started, we have outlined four steps to keep in mind when you’re talking with your partner. Timing is the first and most important consideration, but so is keeping a positive and supportive attitude. See our pointers below.

1. Choose the right moment

Start by choosing a place that is neutral and quiet, so that you can feel safe and not cornered. Sometimes simply going for a walk can be a good way for people to feel open, comfortable and ready to connect. A quiet place will reduce distractions and your chances of being interrupted by children, family or visitors.

2. Plan what you would like to say

By starting the conversation with sentences using 'I' or 'we', you will immediately set the tone for how you are feeling. Then pick a time where you won’t be disturbed. It is a conversation that needs a sense of safety as it is private. Sometimes going for walk can work very well as it can be easier to have unconfortable conversations shoulder to shoulder without the pressure of feeling of discomfort increased if sitting facing each other.

If you are the partner, try to avoid phrasing that makes it personal. To show you are being supportive you could say " I imagine this might be difficult to talk about and I’m here to support you." By reassuring him you will help encourage him to talk. This will show your partner that you are speaking to them from a safe place of care.

3. What to do if the conversation becomes difficult

This is the point where, if you are the partner initiating the conversation, you could consider mentioning the health issues associated with ED symptoms. You could say: “I’m just worried that you might have some underlying health issues”. He may not accept your concerns, but once you’ve mentioned that it is his health that is concerning you, he may start thinking about his symptoms in a different way.

Bear in mind, however, that some men find it very difficult to talk about their erection problems, even when the conversation has been carefully opened, and if this happens, you may need to accept that for whatever reason, now is not the most receptive time for either of you.

4. Remember to stay positive

Starting the ED conversation is the beginning of something better for both of you. Even though erection problems can be caused by underlying physical issues, psychological causes such as depression, anxiety and stress can also be a contributor.

The fact is that whatever is the underlying cause, ED symptoms can cause damage to relationships and so, the sooner they are discussed the sooner they can be resolved.

As well as talking things through together, talking to someone trained to help men treat their ED symptoms, like your GP or pharmacist is advised.

Overcoming Erectile Dysfunction Together

Market research undertaken by Viatris highlighted 1 in 3 Irish men have experienced difficulty achieving an erection at some point in their life and 1 in 5 indicated they have experienced ED regularly. A problem shared is a problem halved, and working with your partner to understand what causes ED and exploring erectile dysfunction treatment options together and with a trained professional such as your pharmacist will help you to cope with the condition. Viagra Connect^® is available over-the-counter in pharmacies and, depending on suitability, may help address some of the issues. Click to read more and see if Viagra Connect^® is the right ED treatment for you.