Can smoking cause erectile dysfunction?

Yes, smoking is a significant risk factor for erectile dysfunction. Tobacco use damages blood vessels, restricts blood flow, and impairs nitric oxide production all essential for achieving and maintaining an erection. Nicotine also acts as a vasoconstrictor, narrowing blood vessels and reducing circulation throughout the body, including the penis. Over time, this can lead to chronic ED. Smokers are nearly twice as likely to develop ED compared to non smokers. The good news is that quitting smoking can improve erectile function, especially if the damage hasn’t progressed too far. Within weeks or months of quitting, many men notice improvements in circulation, stamina, and sexual performance. If you smoke and struggle with ED, quitting can be a powerful step toward recovery.