Treatments for physical causes of erectile dysfunction should progress from less to more invasive. Each treatment has its own set of advantages and side effects. The vacuum pump is very safe. But one drawback is that the constriction band, which keeps the erection, cannot be left on for more than 30 minutes. Sildenafil or Viagra cannot be used in people who take nitroglycerine because the combination may cause severe low blood pressure and heart attack .
Injections are relatively painless, but require careful dose adjustments by a healthcare provider.
Surgery is an option that should be discussed with a healthcare provider. There are possible side effects with any surgery. These include bleeding, infection, and reactions to the medications used to control pain. Most treatments for erectile dysfunction are taken right before planned intercourse. Successful treatment restores sexual function to a satisfactory level for the man and his partner.