Dr Tan Kok Kuan
Men’s Health & Sexual Health Doctor
MBBS (S’pore), Cert. Men’s Health, Cert. Clinical Dermatology,Member, Academy for Men’s Health (Singapore)Member, Singapore Association for the Study of ObesityMember, International Society of Sexual Medicine
Erectile dysfunction (ED), also called impotence, is defined as the inability to get or maintain a firm erection for sexual activity. This tends to affect older men, but it can also affect younger men due to a number of factors. Erectile dysfunction in Singapore is a common sexual problem. However, many are too embarrassed to seek help.
We urge anyone affected to seek medical attention, because there is often an underlying medical cause worth identifying, and help is available to resolve the problem. At our clinic, we provide a detailed analysis of the underlying cause and recommend the best and most sustainable method of treatment that is individualized to the patient’s lifestyle.
The likelihood of erectile dysfunction increases with factors such as age, chronic diseases, smoking, medication, low testosterone and obesity.
Erectile dysfunction can be caused by a variety of physical and emotional factors. Physical causes include the following:
In addition to physical factors, emotional factors may also contribute to the development of erectile dysfunction. These include:
Erectile dysfunction can affect men at any age, but certain factors significantly increase the risk. These include:
How is Erectile Dysfunction Diagnosed?
Diagnosing erectile dysfunction involves a review of one’s medical history, a physical examination, and possibly additional laboratory tests. During the physical examination, the doctor will check for physical abnormalities and assess nerve sensitivity in the genital area. They may also order some tests to identify underlying factors that may have contributed to the condition. These tests include:
There are a variety of erectile dysfunction treatments in Singapore based on the underlying cause and severity. Among them are:
When underlying medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity are contributing factors, integrating lifestyle changes and appropriate medication is crucial for improving erectile function.
Erectile dysfunction medications such as Sildenafil and Tadalafil have shown good outcomes in most patients. They work by enhancing the effects of nitric oxide, a chemical naturally produced by the body to relax penile muscles and increase blood flow, which helps achieve and maintain an erection during sexual activity.
Be sure to only obtain erectile dysfunction medications from licensed clinics and hospitals, as unregulated black-market medications can result in serious adverse health effects.
Alprostadil cream is one of the newer treatment options for ED. It delivers the same active ingredient found in some penile injections—without the need for needles. Instead, the cream is applied painlessly into the opening of the urethra. The medication is then absorbed through the urethral mucosa into the erectile tissue of the penis, where it helps trigger an erection.
Alprostadil works by relaxing the blood vessels, allowing increased blood flow to the penis. This results in an erection without the need for sexual stimulation—unlike oral medications such as sildenafil or tadalafil, which typically require arousal to be effective.
People who are sensitive to the cream may develop itching, tingling, redness or a mild burning sensation at the application site. These symptoms occur in about 10% of users and are usually temporary. If they persist or become bothersome, consult your doctor. A rare but more serious side effect is a prolonged erection (priapism). This can often be avoided by starting with a small dose and gradually adjusting based on your response.
In some cases, alprostadil cream can cause vaginal itching in women who are sensitive to the cream. To minimise this risk, it is best to wait until the cream is fully absorbed before intercourse. Using a condom after applying the cream is another effective way to prevent transfer.
You can lower your risk of developing erectile dysfunction with the following tips:
Reclaim control over your health and intimacy.
Visit Dr Tan Medical Center in Singapore and let our doctors help you find relief for ED. Schedule your consultation at 6513 0359 today.
FAQs on Erectile Dysfunction
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Our Doctor
Dr Tan Kok Kuan
Men’s Health & Sexual Health Doctor
MBBS (S’pore), Cert. Men’s Health, Cert. Clinical Dermatology,Member, Academy for Men’s Health (Singapore)Member, Singapore Association for the Study of ObesityMember, International Society of Sexual Medicine
Dr Tan Kok Kuan is an experienced doctor specialising in men's health, sexual health and medical weight loss. With over 20 years of clinical experience, he offers confidential and effective screening and treatment services. Notably, Dr Tan was one of the key authors of Singapore’s National HIV PrEP Guidelines and the national blueprint to end HIV transmission by 2030. Dr Tan frequently speaks at local and international conferences and has been featured in the media, where he helps raise public awareness around men’s health and sexual health.
“Every patient deserves our fullest attention.”
If you have any queries, please contact us at 6513 0359 or use the contact form below.
10 Sinaran Drive #09-30, Novena Medical Centre, Singapore 307506
Tel: (+65) 6513 0359 | WhatsApp: (+65) 9750 5037
Operating Hours:
Monday to Friday: 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays