Doctor Discussion Checklist

Things Your Doctor Must be Aware of Regarding Your Sexual Health

Most men feel intimidated when they first begin talking about their sexual health, even if it’s with their doctor. Erection difficulties are not something we really like to openly discuss. This doctor discussion guide will help us understand what our healthcare practitioner needs to know from us. If we know what will be asked beforehand, discussing E.D. will be much easier.

To properly treat E.D. a doctor must know several key things about your medical history.

1. Do you suffer or have you ever suffered from: (check all that apply)
Prostate problems
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Liver or Kidney problems
Diabetes
Other__________________

2. List any/all medications you are currently taking (include prescription as well as over-the-counter medicine)?
Nitroglycerin
Protease inhibitors
Antihistamines
Antidepressants
______________________________

______________________________

______________________________

3. Do you currently take any vitamins, minerals or supplements? Please list them:
______________________________
______________________________
______________________________

4. Do you smoke or drink regularly?
No. I neither drink nor smoke
I smoke
I drink
I drink and smoke

5. Have you had any surgeries in the recent past? Please explain:
____________________________________________________________

6. How difficult is it for you to get or maintain an erection:
Erection difficulties only affect me every once in a while but that still worries me.
I am unable to get an erection about 25 % of the time
I am unable to get an erection about half of the time
Achieving an erection is very difficult or near close to impossible

7. Are you able to get an erection during sleep?
______________________________

8. Do you suffer from stress, anxiety or depression?
______________________________

9. Is this the first time you seek out professional treatment for ED or have you attempted other treatments (include self-treatments) in the past? Please explain:
______________________________

10. Has your general health or sexual health changed in any way since your last doctor's visit?
______________________________

The doctor's visit

It is extremely important to be open and honest with your doctor. It is also important to take your time and cover all the basics. Remember, a good doctor will consider all of the above factors (possibly many more) but keep in mind that we are all human so if he/she forgets to ask a question or two, it’s in your best interest to share all of this information and anything else you may deem pertinent during your doctor’s visit.

Conversation starters to help you break the ice with your doctor:

The following conversation starters can help you feel less nervous when approaching your doctor. Use them as icebreakers to get the conversation started but be sure you cover all of your grounds. It may be wise to print the above doctor discussion checklist and keep it handy during your doctor's visit.

1. I have diabetes; will that affect my performance in bed?

2. Can blood pressure, cholesterol or other medications affect my sexual performance?

3. Can Viagra, Cialis, or Levitra help me?

4. What are the differences between these drugs and which one is right for me?

5. Can these drugs be combined with my current medications?

6. What other alternatives do I have?

7. Is my lifestyle affecting my sexual performance?