Sexual Health treatments

Sexual health treatments in Europe

Sexual health conditions affect a substantial proportion of adults across the European Union, yet they remain among the most under-reported and undertreated categories of health concern. Barriers including embarrassment, stigma, and limited access to non-judgmental healthcare contribute to a significant treatment gap.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is estimated to affect approximately 19% of men across Europe, with prevalence rising significantly with age. Premature ejaculation (PE) is one of the most common male sexual disorders globally, affecting an estimated 20–30% of men at some point during their lives. Both conditions are recognised medical diagnoses with established treatment pathways supported by clinical guidelines from European medical associations.

The introduction of oral pharmacological treatments has transformed the management of erectile dysfunction. PDE5 inhibitors — including sildenafil, tadalafil, and vardenafil — work by enhancing the effects of nitric oxide in penile tissue, facilitating the physiological process of erection in response to sexual stimulation. They do not produce erections independently of stimulation and are not aphrodisiacs.

For premature ejaculation, dapoxetine is the only drug specifically developed and EMA-approved for this indication. It is a short-acting SSRI taken on demand, 1–3 hours before anticipated sexual activity, which delays ejaculation by modulating serotonin signalling in the nervous system.

It is important to note that sexual health conditions can sometimes signal underlying medical issues. Erectile dysfunction, in particular, is associated with cardiovascular risk factors, diabetes, and hypertension. An independent, qualified doctor is best placed to assess whether treatment is appropriate and whether further investigation is warranted.

Available treatments

The following prescription medications are available for sexual health conditions through EU-registered doctors. This comparison is provided for informational purposes only.

Medication	Active Ingredient	Condition	Duration of Action
Sildenafil	Sildenafil citrate	Erectile dysfunction	4–6 hours
Tadalafil	Tadalafil	Erectile dysfunction	Up to 36 hours
Dapoxetine	Dapoxetine HCl	Premature ejaculation	Short-acting (on demand)

Key distinctions:

• Sildenafil: The original PDE5 inhibitor, taken 30–60 minutes before sexual activity. Food may slightly delay onset. Generic formulations are widely available.
• Tadalafil: Longer-acting PDE5 inhibitor, also available as a low daily-dose formulation for men who prefer not to plan around timing.
• Dapoxetine: Taken 1–3 hours before sexual activity. Not suitable for patients taking certain other medications including other SSRIs or monoamine oxidase inhibitors.

How to get sexual health treatment online

Prescrivia operates as a technology intermediary. We do not prescribe medications, employ doctors, or sell medicines. Our platform connects patients across Europe with independent EU-registered doctors and licensed pharmacies.

The process:

1. Complete a health assessment — Answer a structured set of medical questions covering your condition, duration, relevant medical history (including cardiovascular health), and current medications. The assessment is confidential and handled with full GDPR compliance.

2. Independent doctor review — An independent EU-registered doctor reviews your assessment. If medication is clinically appropriate, the doctor may issue a prescription. If it is not — for example, due to contraindications with existing medications such as nitrates — the doctor will explain the reasoning.

3. Pharmacy fulfilment — If a prescription is issued, it is passed to a licensed EU pharmacy partner. Medication is dispensed and delivered discreetly to your address.

Important: Prescrivia does not guarantee that a prescription will be issued. Prescribing decisions are made entirely by independent medical professionals.

How we compare

	Through Prescrivia	In-person GP appointment
Availability	24/7 online assessment	Subject to appointment availability
Wait time	Assessment reviewed within hours	Days to weeks depending on location
Travel required	No	Yes
Confidentiality	Full GDPR-compliant data protection	Standard clinical confidentiality
Prescribing decision	Made by independent EU-registered doctor	Made by your GP
Cost	Transparent pricing displayed upfront	Varies by country and healthcare system

Note: Sexual health concerns that may involve infection, pain, structural abnormalities, or hormonal disorders require in-person clinical evaluation. Prescrivia’s platform is appropriate for adults with conditions — such as erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation — that are suitable for remote assessment and pharmacological management.

Sources

Medical information on this page is based on the following sources:

• European Medicines Agency (EMA). Priligy (dapoxetine) — Summary of Product Characteristics. Available at: ema.europa.eu
• Rosen RC, et al. Lower urinary tract symptoms and sexual dysfunction: epidemiology and pathophysiology. BJU International. 2003.
• World Health Organization (WHO). Sexual health — key facts. who.int

This content is reviewed periodically to reflect updated clinical guidance. It is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for advice relevant to your individual health circumstances.