Erectile dysfunction (ED) is defined as the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual activity.

ED is a common condition in psychiatric patients, which can modify their quality of life.

The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence and the severity of ED in psychiatric patients.

This naturalistic, observational study was conducted during a six months period. The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) 15-item questionnaire was used to assess 144 male inpatients with different psychiatric disorders. IIEF is a brief, cross-culturally valid, self-administered scale for detecting treatment-related changes in patients with erectile dysfunction and addresses the relevant domains of male sexual function: erectile function, orgasmic function, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction, and overall satisfaction. The patients were analyzed by age, psychiatric diagnosis, medication, IIEF scores at admission.

Then mean age was 36.4 years. The lot included 44 patients with Psychotic Disorders, 68 with Mood Disorders, 21 with Alcohol Dependence, 11 with Personality Disorders. Severe ED was registered in 38% of investigated patients, which determined abandon of sexual attempts in 57% of cases; 12% had moderate ED, 15% had mild to moderate ED, 18% had mild ED and 17% had normal sexual function. No orgasm was reported in 32% of patients and 37% had no sexual desire. Under treatment with antipsychotic medication 78% had severe or moderate ED.

Severe ED was correlated with age, also being seen in young patients. ED was correlated with depression, schizophrenia and antipsychotic medication.