Erectile Dysfunction Myths

According to the NHS, erectile dysfunction (ED) is far from a rare thing. In fact, it’s so common that half of men between 40 and 70 will experience it to some degree.

So why aren’t more people talking about it? It can be easier to turn to Google than speaking to a friend, family member or clinician. The only problem is that the internet is filled with so many myths and misconceptions that you might not end up with the most reliable information.

That’s why we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions about erectile dysfunction. We’re here to bust myths, give you the facts, and help you get your confidence back.

Three key takeaways

• Erectile dysfunction is mainly caused by poor circulation to the penis, which is linked to high blood pressure and high cholesterol. However, it can also be caused by psychological or hormonal issues.
• While some medications can cause erectile dysfunction, most drugs don't contribute to ED.
• Erectile dysfunction can be treated through lifestyle changes—like addressing stress, anxiety, or alcohol use—or with medications like Viagra.

The most commonly asked erectile dysfunction myths

Below, Ian Budd, our Prescriber and Clinical Lead at Chemist4U, has answered some of the most commonly asked questions about erectile dysfunction.

Does ramipril cause erectile dysfunction?

Medications like ramipril, which is used to treat high blood pressure, may cause ED in a small number of cases. If you're taking ramipril and are experiencing ED speak to your doctor.

Can an enlarged prostate cause erectile dysfunction?

While an enlarged prostate itself doesn't directly cause ED, they share underlying vascular and neurological factors and can often occur together. Some treatments for an enlarged prostate can cause ED. Always discuss symptoms of an enlarged prostate with your GP, whether they lead to ED or not.

Does porn cause erectile dysfunction?

No, watching porn regularly or for a long time won't cause erectile dysfunction. However, excessive porn use can cause you to have an unrealistic attitude towards sex, which may cause ED.

Do aspirins help with erectile dysfunction?

Whether or not aspirin can help with erectile dysfunction would depend on the cause of the ED. It's not a treatment that doctors would recommend for ED as taking aspirin can risk increased bleeding, so you shouldn't self-treat ED with aspirin.

Does masturbation cause erectile dysfunction?

No, masturbation doesn't cause erectile dysfunction. Masturbation is completely natural, and while frequently masturbating can lead to delayed orgasms and smaller volumes of ejaculate, it won't impact your ability to get an erection.

Do statins cause erectile dysfunction?

The incidence of ED with statins is unknown, but it may be a rare side effect. However, statins may actually help ED by reducing cholesterol and improving vascular function. There is little known evidence either way.

Does weed cause erectile dysfunction?

Weed may cause erectile dysfunction in some men, with some studies finding that marijuana use can impact sex drive, erections and the ability to orgasm.

Can you still get pregnant with a man who suffers from erectile dysfunction?

Yes, ED doesn't normally affect sperm production, but conception may be difficult due to ED. If you're looking to start a family, treating ED will help you to have sex to completion, and, therefore, may improve the chance of conception.

Does having a vasectomy cause erectile dysfunction?

No, having a vasectomy doesn't impact your ability to get an erection. It also isn't known to lead to changes in your sex drive.

Do blood thinners cause erectile dysfunction?

There's no clear evidence that blood thinners can cause erectile dysfunction. The correlation may be that elderly patients with cardiovascular disease and receiving blood thinners experience ED. But this is more likely due to their age and disease state, rather than the blood thinner medication.

Can energy drinks cause erectile dysfunction?

The caffeine in energy drinks may help improve ED if used in moderation. Too many energy drinks can affect natural sleep, and exhaustion can be a cause of ED.

Does beet juice help erectile dysfunction?

More research is needed to confirm if this can affect ED. However, beet juice can help your body produce nitric oxide, which contributes to maintaining pressure in the corpus cavernosum, which is the tissue in your penis.

Does creatine cause erectile dysfunction?

Creatine is a natural substance found in muscle tissue. It has not been associated with erectile dysfunction.

Does metformin cause erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction isn't a listed side effect of metformin and hasn't been directly associated with ED. However, if you’re taking metformin to treat type 2 diabetes, the diabetes may be contributing to your ED.

What is the main cause of erectile dysfunction?

Vascular disease is the main cause of ED. However, some people may experience psychological erectile dysfunction, related to their mental health. Tiredness and drinking too much alcohol can also cause ED.  

When is erectile dysfunction permanent?

If the ED is caused by nerve damage or certain medical conditions, such as spinal injuries or multiple sclerosis, it may not be treatable with standard medications for ED. But there are other options you could explore, like penis pumps.

Treat erectile dysfunction discreetly with Chemist4U

Thankfully, most causes of erectile dysfunction aren't permanent, and help is available. Erectile dysfunction pills like Viagra work by relaxing blood vessels in the penis, allowing increased blood flow when aroused to achieve and maintain an erection.

While Viagra is very effective for most people, there are also plenty of alternatives to Viagra to choose from. This includes over the counter options like Cialis Together and prescription-only medications like tadalafil.

Getting started on your ideal ED treatment with us is simple. Answer a few questions about your erectile dysfunction symptoms and medical history, and one of our expert clinicians will determine whether treatment is suitable for you.

If so, we’ll deliver it quickly and discreetly to your door, saving you an in-person GP appointment.

Sources

• Sex and the Prostate: Overcoming Erectile Dysfunction. (2021). Harvard Health. [Accessed 15th December 2025].
• Blood Pressure Medication and ED. (2025). WebMD. [Accessed 15th December 2025].
• Erectile Dysfunction Study. (1999). PubMed. [Accessed 15th December 2025].
• ED Research Study. (2017). PubMed. [Accessed 15th December 2025].
• Erectile Dysfunction Clinical Research. (2023). PMC/NCBI. [Accessed 15th December 2025].

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