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Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition that can affect men of different ages, not just those in their 40s and 50s. For most men, it can be effectively managed rather than being an unavoidable part of getting older. It refers to the inability to achieve or maintain an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. This may occur occasionally due to stress or more frequently due to underlying health or emotional factors.

At TAF Clinic in Singapore, our doctor takes a personalised approach to ED treatment, identifying the underlying cause before recommending a suitable plan. Depending on your needs, your treatment may combine shockwave therapy, medication, and hormone evaluation, with guidance provided throughout every stage of your treatment journey.

Medically reviewed by Dr Muhammad Taufiq Rashid

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Symptoms Causes Diagnosis Pricing Treatment Prevention FAQ
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FAQ

Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction

Men experiencing erectile dysfunction may notice several symptoms that can vary in severity and frequency among individuals.

  • Difficulty achieving erections: The inability to get an erection when desired for sexual activity. This occurs despite adequate stimulation and interest in sexual activity.
  • Inability to maintain erections: The erection may begin normally but cannot be sustained long enough to complete sexual activity.
  • Reduced sexual desire: Diminished interest in sexual activities or decreased libido. This symptom often accompanies erectile difficulties but can also occur independently.
  • Needing more stimulation than before: Requiring more direct or prolonged stimulation to achieve or maintain an erection compared to previously.
  • Softer or partial erections: Erections are noticeably less firm than they used to be, even when arousal and stimulation are not the issue.

Understanding the Erection Hardness Score (EHS)

EHS is a four-point patient-reported scale used by doctors to assess erection firmness. It helps men describe their ED symptoms before a consultation and is used alongside your medical history and examination findings to assess your condition.

1

Grade 1

The penis is enlarged but not firm.

2

Grade 2

The penis is firm but not enough for penetration.

3

Grade 3

The penis is firm enough for penetration but not fully rigid.

4

Grade 4

The penis is completely firm and fully rigid.

Causes and Risk Factors

Erectile dysfunction develops due to various physical and psychological factors that can affect blood flow, nerve function, or hormonal balance.

  • Age

    Age is a significant risk factor for ED, although it is not the only one and does not make ED inevitable.

    A population-based study of Singaporean men published in the Singapore Medical Journal (Tan et al., 2003) found that approximately 42.8% of men in their forties experienced some degree of ED, with prevalence increasing after age 50 and reaching approximately 77.4% among men in their sixties.

    Younger men can also experience ED, and it should not be dismissed simply as a normal part of ageing.

  • Vascular Disease

    Conditions like atherosclerosis restrict blood flow to the penis, preventing adequate filling of erectile tissues. Cardiovascular conditions often impact penile blood vessels before larger arteries show symptoms.

  • Neurological Disorders

    An erection relies on nerve signals travelling between the brain and the penis. Conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, or a history of stroke can disrupt this process and affect the ability to initiate and maintain erections.

  • Hormonal Imbalances

    Low testosterone levels can reduce sexual desire and affect erectile function. Thyroid problems and other endocrine disorders may also contribute to erectile dysfunction.

  • Medications

    Certain drugs, particularly antihypertensives, antidepressants, and antihistamines, can affect erectile function as a side effect. These medications may interfere with normal nerve signals or blood flow.

  • Psychological Factors

    Stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship problems can all contribute to erectile difficulties. These factors can initiate erectile dysfunction or worsen an existing physical cause.

  • Lifestyle Factors

    Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, substance abuse, and lack of physical activity can all contribute to erectile dysfunction. These behaviours affect vascular health and can impair sexual function over time.

  • Chronic Health Conditions

    Kidney disease, liver disease, and sleep disorders can all affect sexual function. These conditions may damage blood vessels, nerves, or hormone production.

Diagnostic Methods

This includes collecting detailed information about symptoms, onset, progression, current medications, and relevant medical conditions. Where required, this assessment may also consider psychosocial factors such as stress, anxiety, and relationship dynamics, which can contribute to erectile dysfunction. This comprehensive review helps identify potential underlying causes and guides further diagnostic testing.

Medical History Assessment

This includes collecting detailed information about symptoms, onset, progression, current medications, and relevant medical conditions. Where required, this assessment may also consider psychosocial factors such as stress, anxiety, and relationship dynamics, which can contribute to erectile dysfunction. This comprehensive review helps identify potential underlying causes and guides further diagnostic testing.

Physical Examination

A thorough physical examination focuses on the genitourinary, vascular, and neurological systems. The examination may reveal signs of hormonal disorders, vascular disease, or neurological conditions that could contribute to erectile dysfunction.

Blood Tests

Laboratory tests check for conditions like heart disease, kidney disease, and hormonal imbalances. Blood tests commonly include lipid profiles, glucose levels, and hormone assessments, particularly testosterone levels.

Screening Package

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TAF 3

BASIC MALE HEALTH SCREENING

$490
  • Haematology
    • Full Blood Count, FBC
  • Cardiac / Lipid Profile
    • Total Cholesterol
    • Triglycerides
    • Cholesterol HDL
    • Cholesterol LDL
    • Cholestrol Total/HDL RATIO
    • hs C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP)
  • Kidney Function
    • Urea
    • Sodium
    • Potassium
    • Bicarbonate
    • Chloride
    • eGFR
  • Bone/Joint Profile
    • Calcium
    • Phosphate
    • Uric Acid
  • Hormonal Profile
    • DHEAS
    • Testosterone Total
    • Estradiol (E2)
    • Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
    • Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG)
    • Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
  • Liver Profile
    • Bilirubin Total
    • Protein Total
    • Albumin
    • Globulin
    • Albumin/Globulin Ratio
    • ALT/SGPT
    • AST/SGOT
    • GGT
  • Thyroid Profile
    • FREE T4
    • TSH
  • Tumour Markers
    • PSA (Male) / CA 125 (Female)
  • Urine/Stool Analysis
    • Urine FEME
    • Urine Microalbumin/Creatinine Ratio
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Treatment Options

Various treatments are available to address erectile dysfunction, from lifestyle changes to medical interventions, based on cause, severity, and preferences.

Oral Medications

Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors work by enhancing the effects of nitric oxide, a natural chemical that relaxes penile muscles and increases blood flow. These medications require sexual stimulation to work and are not suitable for everyone, particularly those taking nitrate medications.

Vacuum Erection Devices

These mechanical pumps create a vacuum that pulls blood into the penis. Once an erection is achieved, a tension ring is placed at the base of the penis to maintain the erection. Vacuum devices may be suitable regardless of the cause of erectile dysfunction and offer a non-invasive, medication-free option.

Penile Injections

Self-administered injections deliver medications directly into the side of the penis to induce an erection. These medications work by relaxing blood vessels and increasing blood flow. Injections typically produce erections regardless of sexual stimulation and may be considered for men who do not respond to oral medications.

Testosterone Replacement

For men with confirmed low testosterone levels, testosterone replacement therapy may improve erectile function. The treatment is used to address erectile dysfunction associated with testosterone deficiency and is only considered when low testosterone levels have been confirmed through appropriate testing. Testosterone can be administered through injections or gels, and dosing is adjusted based on regular monitoring. This approach addresses the hormonal component of erectile dysfunction but may not be sufficient if other factors are involved.

Shockwave Therapy

This non-invasive treatment uses low-intensity shock waves directed at the penile tissue, with the aim of supporting blood vessel formation and improving vascular function in the area. The shock waves are delivered externally using a handheld device and do not require incisions or anaesthesia. Shockwave therapy for ED typically involves multiple sessions over several weeks and may be particularly beneficial for men with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction related to vascular causes.

ED Treatments Available at TAF Clinic

At TAF Clinic, Dr Taufiq evaluates each patient’s vascular, hormonal, and lifestyle factors to determine which ED treatment approach may be appropriate. This may involve oral medications, testosterone evaluation, shockwave therapy, or a combination of these, depending on the findings from your consultation, physical examination, and blood tests.

Treatment Option

Testosterone Replacement Therapy

Testosterone replacement therapy is considered for men whose blood tests confirm low testosterone levels alongside symptoms such as low energy, reduced libido, or erectile difficulties.

It is suitable for men with clinically confirmed low testosterone who require ongoing medical supervision to keep hormone levels balanced.

At TAF Clinic, testosterone is administered through injections or topical gels, with the dose and form adjusted based on regular monitoring and follow-up blood tests.

Treatment Option

Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy for ED is an option when a patient’s assessment indicates that blood flow is a contributing factor to their ED. It is generally considered for those who have not seen improvement with medications, or who are unable to take ED medications due to health restrictions.

It is a non-surgical, drug-free treatment that directs low-intensity sound waves at the penile tissue.

At TAF Clinic, this typically involves a course of 6 to 12 sessions over several weeks, with each session lasting around 15 to 20 minutes.

Prevention and Management

Managing erectile dysfunction involves addressing underlying health conditions and making lifestyle adjustments. Regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight support healthy blood flow, while a balanced diet supports cardiovascular health. Limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding tobacco products prevents damage to blood vessels and nerves. Managing chronic health conditions through medication adherence and regular medical check-ups helps prevent complications affecting sexual function. Open communication with sexual partners about concerns can reduce performance anxiety and promote intimacy.

Dr Muhammad Taufiq Rashid
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Dr Muhammad Taufiq Rashid

MBBS (NUS)

Member of SASO

Member of SMHS

Member Of ISSM

With over 15 years of experience in clinical practice and healthcare management, Dr Muhammad Taufiq Rashid focuses on men’s health and weight management. He is also a member of the International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM), reflecting his continued commitment to men’s wellness.

His care approach incorporates evidence-based medical procedures and tailored solutions designed to meet individual needs.

Dr Taufiq’s professional background spans a range of medical disciplines, equipping him with the knowledge and skills to guide patients in achieving their health goals. He is certified in circumcision techniques using the Shang Ring and ZSR Stapler methods, offering efficient and minimally invasive procedures completed in less than 15 minutes.

Education, Experience & Affiliations

Dr. Taufiq began his medical career as a Medical Officer under MOHH from 2006 to 2014, gaining valuable experience in multidisciplinary healthcare at Alexandra Hospital, KK Hospital, Bright Vision Hospital, and AMK THK Hospital.

From July 2017 to March 2021, he served as Chief Resident Physician at DTAP Clinic Somerset Branch, focusing on men’s health and providing holistic, patient-centered care.

As Medical Director at Pulse Medical Centre from April 2021 to December 2024, Dr. Taufiq led multidisciplinary care and advanced patient-first practices.

He holds certifications in ShangRing Circumcision, ZSR Stapler Circumcision, SCOPE certification, and ShangRing Training (Wuhu, Snnda, 2018). He is also a Certified Trainer for ShangRing Circumcision, ZSR Stapler Circumcision, Touchstone Circumcision, and the Storz T-Top Duolith Shockwave Therapy Machine.

In 2024, he completed the Androcourse under the Society of Men’s Health Singapore. Dr. Taufiq is a member of the Society of Men’s Health Singapore (SMHS), the Singapore Association for the Study of Obesity (SASO), and the International Society of Sexual Medicine (ISSM), reflecting his ongoing commitment to men’s health and weight management.

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    Our Location

    SBF CENTER MEDICAL SUITES
    160 Robinson Rd, #05-05, Singapore 068914

    Mon – Thu: 9:00am to 2:00pm, 3:00pm to 6:00pm
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    +65‎ 6910‎ 4404 (Phone)
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    Frequently Asked Questions

    How long do erectile dysfunction treatments take to work?

    Timing differs by treatment type. Your doctor will explain what to expect for your specific ED treatment plan during your consultation.

    Is erectile dysfunction reversible?

    Reversibility depends on the cause. Issues from lifestyle, medications, or psychological factors often improve when addressed. Conditions from vascular disease or surgical complications may be less reversible but can still respond to treatment.

    Can weight loss improve erectile dysfunction?

    Weight loss may help improve erectile function in overweight men by addressing hormonal issues, inflammation, and blood vessel function.

    Which ED treatments are available at TAF Clinic?

    TAF Clinic offers testosterone replacement treatment, and shockwave therapy for ED. The doctor will assess your medical history, symptoms, and test results to determine which option may be suitable for you.

    Can shockwave therapy and ED medication be used together?

    Depending on the underlying cause of erectile dysfunction, the doctor may recommend shockwave therapy alongside ED medication. Shockwave therapy is also an option for men who experience side effects from ED medications or cannot use them due to certain health restrictions.

    How does low testosterone affect erectile dysfunction?

    Testosterone plays a role in sexual desire and erectile function. Men with low testosterone levels may experience reduced libido alongside erectile difficulties.

    What does an ED consultation at TAF Clinic involve?

    A consultation typically includes a discussion of your medical history and symptoms, a physical examination, and blood tests where relevant. Where appropriate, your doctor may also discuss psychological or relationship factors that could be contributing to your symptoms, before recommending an ED treatment plan. If you have questions about consultation or costs, your doctor can explain everything based on the assessment and the recommended treatment plan.

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