What Is Erectile Dysfunction? A Urologist Explains

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common issue, but it can vary from person to person. It has many different causes, and symptoms may also affect people in different ways. For some people, difficulty getting and maintaining an erection can be a short-term problem; for others, it may be long term.

In this video, learn the basics about ED, including its symptoms and risk factors, according to Joseph Alukal, MD, Urologist at Columbia University Irving Medical Center.

Why trust our experts?

Written by:

Lauren Smith, MA

Lauren Smith, MA, has worked in health journalism since 2017. Before joining GoodRx, she was the senior health editor and writer for HealthiNation.

Reviewed by:

Alexandra Schwarz, MD

Alexandra Schwarz, MD, is a board-eligible sleep medicine physician and a board-certified family medicine physician. She is a member of both the AASM and the ABFM.

Our editorial standards

Meet our experts