Sexual Health

ED can be linked to a range of factors, including:

• Physical causes: cardiovascular conditions, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, hormonal changes, nerve damage
• Lifestyle factors: smoking, alcohol consumption, recreational drugs, lack of physical activity
• Psychological causes: stress, anxiety, low mood, relationship concerns
• Medication side effects: some prescription medicines may contribute to ED

A clinical assessment helps identify whether ED may be linked to an underlying health condition.

Several medicines are licensed in the UK for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, including sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil, and avanafil.

These are prescription-only medicines (POMs) and are only supplied following a clinical assessment by a qualified prescriber to ensure they are safe and appropriate for you.

These medicines work by increasing blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. They do not increase sexual desire and will only work when aroused.

Like all medicines, ED treatments can cause side effects. Common side effects may include headaches, flushing, indigestion, nasal congestion, dizziness, and visual disturbances. Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention.

ED medicines may not be suitable if you have certain heart conditions, low blood pressure, a recent stroke or heart attack, or are taking interacting medications.

Prescriptions are issued by UK-registered independent prescribers (such as doctors or pharmacist prescribers), regulated by their respective professional bodies.

We may need to verify your identity and contact your GP (with your consent) to ensure safe prescribing.

• ED medicines are not suitable for everyone
• They must not be taken with nitrates or certain heart medications
• A pharmacist or prescriber will review your answers to ensure the treatment is safe and appropriate
• Always read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) before use

1. Complete a confidential online consultation
   Your answers are reviewed by a UK‑registered prescriber.
2. Clinical decision
   If appropriate, a prescriber will recommend a suitable treatment and issue a prescription.
3. Dispensing and delivery
   Medicines are dispensed by our GPhC-registered pharmacy and delivered in plain packaging.

We may contact you if further information is required.

You should speak to a GP or healthcare professional if:

• ED occurs suddenly or frequently
• You have chest pain, shortness of breath, or symptoms of heart disease
• You have underlying health conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure
• You experience side effects from ED medication
• You have concerns about your sexual health or mental well-being

If you experience a prolonged or painful erection lasting more than 4 hours, seek immediate medical attention.

• Lose weight if you’re overweight
• Stop smoking
• Eat a healthy diet
• Exercise daily
• Try to reduce stress and anxiety
• Do not drink more than 14 units of alcohol a week
• Do not cycle for a while if you cycle for more than 3 hours a week

ED is a common and treatable condition, and many people find that lifestyle changes, counselling, or medical treatment can help. If you’re unsure which option is right for you, our pharmacy team is available to provide general guidance.

If you are concerned about ED, then you can book a confidential online consultation with our pharmacists. Appointments are available seven days a week in the comfort of your own home.

• Premature ejaculation
• Delayed ejaculation
• Retrograde ejaculation

PE can be influenced by a range of factors, including:

• Psychological factors: anxiety, stress, low mood, relationship concerns
• Physical factors: hormonal differences, inflammation or infection, sensitivity
• Lifestyle factors: fatigue, stress, alcohol or drug use
• Other health conditions: erectile dysfunction may also contribute

A clinical assessment helps determine whether treatment is appropriate and safe.

There are licensed medicines in the UK that may help delay ejaculation. These include:

Dapoxetine (Prescription‑Only Medicine)

Dapoxetine is a short-acting selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) licensed in the UK for the treatment of premature ejaculation in adult men aged 18–64. It is taken 1–3 hours before sexual activity and may help increase the time to ejaculation, although results can vary between individuals.

Always read the Patient Information Leaflet supplied with your medicine.

Important safety information:

• Dapoxetine is a prescription-only medicine and is not suitable for everyone
• Common side effects may include nausea, dizziness, headache, and fainting
• It should not be taken with certain medicines, including some antidepressants and recreational drugs
• Alcohol may increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness or fainting
• A prescriber will assess your suitability before treatment is supplied

This service is intended for adult men aged 18–64 diagnosed with premature ejaculation. Treatment will only be provided if clinically appropriate.

Some people may also benefit from behavioural techniques, counselling, or addressing underlying psychological factors.

1. Complete a confidential online consultation
   Your answers are reviewed by a UK‑registered prescriber.
2. Treatment recommendations
   If suitable, a prescription will be issued. Treatment will only be supplied where it is safe and clinically appropriate.
3. Fast, discreet delivery
   Medicines are dispensed by our GPhC‑registered pharmacy and delivered in plain, secure packaging.

We may contact you if further information is needed.

You should speak to a GP or healthcare professional if:

• PE is persistent or causing significant distress
• You have symptoms of erectile dysfunction
• You experience side effects from treatment
• You have underlying health conditions or take other regular medicines
• You are unsure whether treatment is suitable for you

If you experience symptoms such as fainting, severe dizziness, or mood changes while taking PE medication, seek medical advice promptly.

Premature ejaculation is a common and treatable condition. Many people find that a combination of lifestyle changes, behavioural techniques, and medical treatment can help. If you’re unsure which option is right for you, our pharmacy team can provide general guidance.

PE can sometimes be linked to underlying physical or psychological conditions. If symptoms are sudden, worsening, or associated with other health concerns, a GP assessment is recommended.

If you need to access advice for premature ejaculation, then you can book an online consultation with our pharmacists. You can access confidential support in the comfort of your own home.

Symptoms can vary depending on which part of the urinary tract is affected. People with a UTI may experience:

• A burning or stinging sensation when passing urine
• Needing to urinate more often than usual
• Sudden or urgent need to urinate
• Cloudy or strong‑smelling urine
• Lower abdominal discomfort

More serious symptoms, such as fever, back pain, or nausea, may indicate a more complicated infection and require medical attention.

These symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it’s important not to self‑diagnose. A proper assessment is required to confirm whether your symptoms are caused by a UTI.

UTIs are usually caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract. Contributing factors may include:

• Being sexually active
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Menopause
• Pregnancy
• Urinary catheters
• Enlarged prostate in men
• Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes

A pharmacist can help identify possible triggers and offer advice on prevention.

Treatment depends on the type and severity of symptoms. Here are some of the options that may be suitable for you.

Pharmacy treatment

Some uncomplicated UTIs in women aged 16–64 may be treated through a pharmacy service, depending on symptoms, medical history, and eligibility criteria.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics may be supplied through certain pharmacy services or prescribed by a GP when clinically appropriate. They are not suitable for everyone and are only recommended when necessary.

Self‑care measures for a UTI

These steps may help relieve symptoms:

• Drinking plenty of water
• Avoiding caffeine and alcohol
• Using heat pads for abdominal discomfort
• Taking simple pain relief if it is suitable for you

Self‑care measures can support comfort but do not replace medical treatment when needed.

These simple habits may help reduce the risk of UTIs.

• Stay well‑hydrated
• Avoid delaying urination
• Wipe from front to back after using the toilet
• Urinate after sexual activity
• Wear breathable underwear
• Avoid perfumed soaps or intimate products

These steps support urinary health but cannot guarantee the prevention of UTIs, as they can happen to anyone.

• We can provide confidential advice about UTI symptoms
• We can complete an assessment to determine whether pharmacy treatment is suitable
• We can offer guidance on self‑care and prevention
• We can provide a referral to a GP or urgent care service when needed

Our service is not suitable for emergency or severe symptoms. If you feel unwell or your symptoms are severe, seek urgent medical attention.

Speak to a GP or healthcare professional urgently if you experience:

• Fever, chills, or shivering
• Pain in your back or sides
• Blood in your urine
• Symptoms that worsen or do not improve
• Recurrent UTIs
• UTI symptoms during pregnancy
• Symptoms in children or older adults

Prompt assessment ensures you receive the most appropriate care.

If you are concerned about mild symptoms of a urinary tract infection, then you should book a free online consultation with our qualified pharmacists. We provide online, discreet care so you don’t even need to leave your home.

Book a free consultation to discuss your symptoms and receive appropriate advice and, where suitable, treatment options.