The role of the partner in erectile dysfunction and its treatment

Advances in pharmacological, mechanical, and surgical treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED) now allow erectile function to be re-established in most men who experience this problem. However, re-establishing erectile function and re-establishing a satisfying sexual interaction with a partner are totally different objectives, and when the latter is not met, the man may re-present with treatment failure or withdraw from treatment altogether. All nontalking therapies focus on the penis as the dysfunctional element, and all too often clinicians fail to appreciate that ED can result from problems in the patient's partner and/or difficulties in their relationship. This article examines the role of the partner in the etiology, assessment, and treatment of ED.