Erectile dysfunction can be a big one, and it often doesn’t have just one obvious cause. Arousal and firmness can all be impacted by stress, sleep deprivation, booze, a down mood, relationship problems, and health problems. For many men, the most difficult part is not, in fact, the physical change but the worry that follows. A short-term ED medication could help by supplementing the body’s natural response during intimacy, but it does not address the underlying cause on its own. When used responsibly, it can take the pressure off and help rebuild confidence as you work on cultivating a long-term foundation of good health. This guide explains what happens in the body, what to expect, and how to stay safe.