Erectile Dysfunction
March 18, 2026
·
5 Mins
read
Can Acupuncture Treatments Cure Erectile Dysfunction?
Looking for a natural, alternative treatment for erectile dysfunction? In this article, we’ll be explaining what erectile dysfunction (ED) is and why it happens, how acupuncture might be able to help with ED, and where you can go for acupuncture in Singapore.
Looking for a natural, alternative treatment for erectile dysfunction? Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points of the body to stimulate healing. Some men have explored acupuncture as a treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED).
A 2019 network meta-analysis published in the journal Medicine reviewed evidence for acupuncture in treating ED. The researchers found some evidence supporting acupuncture as a treatment, particularly for psychogenic ED (ED caused by psychological factors). A separate prospective randomized placebo-controlled study found that acupuncture was effective in treating psychogenic ED compared to placebo.
However, the overall evidence base is limited. Most studies have small sample sizes and methodological limitations. Major urological associations do not currently recommend acupuncture as a first-line treatment for ED. The evidence is more promising for psychological ED than for ED caused by physical conditions.
In Singapore, acupuncture is regulated under the Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners Board (TCMPB). You should ensure any acupuncturist you see is registered with the TCMPB.
If you are experiencing erectile dysfunction, it is advisable that you consult a doctor. Here at Noah, our doctors are best equipped with the knowledge to help you ascertain the root cause of your ED and recommend appropriate evidence-based treatments.
Articles featured on Noah are for informational purposes only and should not be constituted as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you have any medical questions or concerns, please talk to your healthcare provider. If you're looking for a healthcare provider, click here.
Wells, Diana. “Can Acupuncture Help Treat Erectile Dysfunction?” Healthline Media, March 22, 2017. (Link)
Stines, Yvelette. “What Are the Benefits of Acupuncture for Erectile Dysfunction (Ed)?” Verywell Health, September 27, 2021. (Link)
Wang, Jisheng et al. “The safety and efficacy of acupuncture for erectile dysfunction: A network meta-analysis.” Medicine vol. 98,2 (2019): e14089. (Link)
Tan, J K et al. “Erectile Dysfunction in Singapore: Prevalence and Its Associated Factors – A Population-Based Study” Singapore Med J Vol 2003 44(1): 20-26. (Link)
“Impotence Gets 'Needled' in Acupuncture Study.” WebMD. WebMD, May 5, 2000. (Link)
Gerbild H, Larsen CM, Graugaard C, Areskoug Josefsson K. Physical Activity to Improve Erectile Function: A Systematic Review of Intervention Studies. Sex Med. Jun 6, 2018. (Link)
“Erectile Dysfunction.” Cleveland Clinic. Accessed December 9, 2021. (Link)
“Psychological and Other Risk Factors for Erectile Dysfunction and Male Sexual Dysfunction.” The well-being institute, University of Cambridge. Accessed December 9, 2021. (Link)
Engelhardt PF, Daha LK, Zils T, Simak R, König K, Pflüger H. Acupuncture in the treatment of psychogenic erectile dysfunction: first results of a prospective randomized placebo-controlled study. Int J Impot Res. 2003 Oct;15(5):343-6. (Link)
TCMPB. Accessed December 9, 2021. (Link)
Sherman, Karen J, and Remy R Coeytaux. “Acupuncture for Improving Chronic Back Pain, Osteoarthritis and Headache.” Journal of clinical outcomes management : JCOM vol. 16,5 (2009): 224-230. (Link)
