How to Use the Erectile Dysfunction (IIEF-5) Screening Tool
The IIEF-5 (Sexual Health Inventory for Men, SHIM) is a 5-item abbreviated version of the internationally validated International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), and it's actually used in urology clinics for ED screening. This calculator uses the original questions and scoring exactly as published — answer based on the past 6 months to get a total score from 5 to 25 along with an assessment.
A lower score indicates greater ED severity: 22-25 is considered no ED (normal range), 17-21 mild, 12-16 mild to moderate, 8-11 moderate, and 5-7 severe. Erectile dysfunction can stem from temporary factors like stress or fatigue, or from underlying causes such as vascular or nerve conditions, diabetes, or certain medications — the right approach depends on the cause.
This score is a screening reference only and does not replace medical diagnosis. If your score is low or symptoms persist, it's a good idea to see a urologist to identify the cause and discuss appropriate treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
The IIEF-5 (Sexual Health Inventory for Men, SHIM) is an internationally validated 5-item screening scale for erectile dysfunction, based on the past 6 months, widely used in urology clinics.
This score is a screening reference, not a diagnosis. If your score is low, it's a good idea to see a urologist to discuss the underlying cause and possible treatment options.
Some questions include a 'no sexual activity' or 'did not attempt' option — select that if it applies. This may lower your total score below your actual erectile function, so treat the result as a general reference only.