Introduction: Erectile dysfunction (ED) is multifactorial and even with organic etiologies, simultaneous performance anxiety and psychogenic inhibition often exacerbate the condition. Mindfulness is a technique to focus on being aware of what you're sensing and feeling in the moment, without interpretation or judgment. We aimed to determine the practicality of a virtual, mindfulness-based group therapy (MBGT) program for patients experiencing ED and to secondarily assess changes in erectile function.

Methods: A mixed-methods approach was taken for this feasibility pilot study. A total of 18 participants (mean age 42, range 22–69 years) with ED were recruited to participate in a four-week virtual MBGT program. Three groups were led by trained facilitators on a weekly basis via Webex platform and ran 1.5–2 hours in length, followed by daily home practice and sex education between sessions. Participants completed questionnaires (International Index of Erectile Function [IIEF], Relationship Assessment Scale [RAS], Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire [FFMQ]) as a baseline and three months after treatment. Qualitative exit interviews and program feedback were requested from all participants.

Results: The dropout rate was 11% (2/18); one participant quit early, and one had unanticipated work duties. There was a statistically significant improvement in the mean IIEF scores, from a baseline of 43 to 56 after MBGT intervention (p<0.05). Overall feedback was positive, and most participants responded that they would recommend this program to others. Some participants felt that the material could be covered over six weeks and/or that an in-person setting would be more interactive.

Conclusion: This is the first published virtually MBGT program for patients experiencing ED. This program appears feasible: attendance rates were high, the content was well-received, and patients had improvement in erectile function. Our pilot study has provoked a change in the treatments we may offer patients with ED. Further studies are needed to compare MBGT to medical management and other psychotherapy interventions.