Erectile Dysfunction Treatment Options in San Antonio

When erections become difficult to achieve or maintain, it can signal an underlying health issue, such as:

• Vascular disease
• Diabetes
• Medication effects
• Nerve injury
• Hormonal changes

Still, many men hesitate to talk to their doctor.

Sharing what you’re experiencing can lead to simple solutions that make a difference. In fact, erectile dysfunction (ED) often responds well to treatment. Most men see improvement once the underlying cause is identified.

We have a variety of erectile dysfunction treatment options in San Antonio.

Your doctor will start with a careful evaluation to understand what’s contributing to your symptoms. The assessment will gather information about:

• When symptoms began and how often they occur
• Past illnesses, surgeries, and health conditions such as diabetes
• Medications and supplements you take
• Sleep, stress, exercise, and dietary habits
• Hormone testing
• Emotional and relationship factors

By looking at all of this information, your doctor can find the cause and choose the best treatment.

1. Lifestyle changes

Healthy everyday habits can directly affect erections. Improving circulation, metabolism, and stress levels often makes other ED treatments work better. Helpful steps include:

• Eating a nutritious, heart-healthy diet
• Exercising regularly
• Losing excess weight
• Sleeping well
• Reducing alcohol
• Avoiding tobacco
• Managing stress
• Reviewing medications and supplements

If a prescription medication interferes with erections, your doctor may adjust the dose or choose an alternative.

2. Pelvic floor muscle training

The pelvic floor muscles help control urine and support erections. Strengthening these muscles can help make erections firmer and last longer. A physical therapist trained in men’s pelvic health can teach exercises that often help with mild ED.

3. Counseling or therapy

Stress, worry, or relationship problems can affect erections. Talking with a counselor or therapist can help address these issues. Therapy often works best when it is combined with medical treatment.

4. Oral medications

Medications called PDE-5 inhibitors are the most common first-line treatments for ED. They work by increasing blood flow within the penis in response to sexual stimulation, and include:

• Sildenafil
• Tadalafil
• Vardenafil
• Avanafil

These medications do not increase sexual desire. They support the physical response but don’t affect libido. PDE-5 inhibitors:

• Improve the ability to get and keep an erection
• Work well for many men with diabetes or vascular disease
• Can be taken as needed or daily, depending on the medication
• Are not safe to use with nitrate medications for chest pain

5. Testosterone therapy

Low testosterone is not usually the main cause of ED, but it can affect energy and sex drive. If blood tests show low levels, testosterone therapy may help improve desire and help other ED treatments work better.

6. Penile injection therapy

Injection therapy uses medicine placed directly into the penis to create an erection. The medication helps relax blood vessels and usually works within minutes. This treatment does not require sexual stimulation.

7. Vacuum erection devices

A vacuum erection device uses gentle suction to draw blood into the penis. A constriction ring placed at the base helps maintain the erection long enough for sexual activity. Ejaculation may be limited while the ring is in place, but orgasm is still possible. This method is:

• Noninvasive
• Safe for most men
• Useful when medications are ineffective or not recommended

8. Penile implants

A penile implant is a long-term treatment for ED that provides reliable erections. It helps restore control and spontaneity. Modern implants are placed fully inside the body and come in two main types.

• Inflatable implants use a small pump inside the scrotum to create an erection when needed. They look and feel natural and stay soft when not in use. You can control firmness and timing.
• Malleable (semi-rigid) rods are bendable rods placed inside the penis. You position them upward for sex and downward for daily activities. They are easy to use and may be helpful for men with limited hand strength.

Our specialists can help you choose the treatment that works best and helps you feel more confident.

1. What is the first step in treating erectile dysfunction?

The first step is a medical evaluation. Your doctor looks at your health history, medications, hormone levels, and lifestyle factors to find what’s causing the problem. Treating the root cause often leads to better and longer-lasting results.

2. Do erectile dysfunction treatments actually work?

Yes. Most men improve once the cause of ED is found. Treatments like medication, lifestyle changes, therapy, injections, or implants can work very well.

3. Do I have to start with medication?

Not always. Some men improve with lifestyle changes, pelvic floor exercises, or counseling alone. Others may need medication or advanced therapies. Your doctor will recommend options based on your symptoms, health, and goals.