Psychogenic erectile dysfunction - Classification and management

Psychogenic factors are involved either alone, or in combination with, organic causes in a substantial number of cases of erectile dysfunction. Epidemiologic studies have implicated the role of depressed mood, loss of self-esteem, and other psychosocial stresses in the etiology of erectile dysfunction. A new definition and classification of psychogenic erectile dysfunction have been proposed, based upon recent clinical and research findings. Traditional treatment approaches for psychogenic erectile dysfunction have included anxiety reduction and desensitization procedures, cognitive-behavioral interventions, guided sexual stimulation techniques, and couples or relationship counseling. Recently, these approaches have been combined with pharmacologic therapy, such as sildenafil.