All of us lose some of our oomph as we age. For men, this means we may not be as sexually active as we once were. When men reach the point where their sexual function no longer allows them to have sex - the dreaded “Sexual Misfunction" - it's pretty obvious. But there are a number of stages prior to this cliff where sexual function is decreasing, and it may not be immediately obvious. So how would you know?

It’s not always easy to track how well you are performing sexually. What is the metric? Do you ask your partner? That might be awkward. Do you count the number of times you’ve had sex in the last month? This could be a function of your schedule. Do you time your refractory period (the time it takes for you to get hard again after ejaculation)? Not always the most convenient way to assess.  

To solve this riddle, doctors use a tool known as the Erectile Function Domain score or the IIEF questionnaire. This lyrically named test is the standard tool that healthcare professionals use to assess male sexual function. Now I suspect that going to your doctor and asking him or her to test how well your penis is functioning might not be the most enticing option. If you're one the shy guys, don’t fear. You can take the test yourself, any time you want, at home.

The questionnaire includes five domains: erectile function, orgasmic function, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction, and overall satisfaction. The Erectile Function Domain score contains five questions that assess the frequency and quality of erections. Your answers to these questions are used to calculate your Erectile Function Domain score, also known as your "shim score.” Here's what you need to know about the Erectile Function Domain score and how you can calculate it yourself:

What is the Erectile Function Domain score?

The Erectile Function Domain score is a score that measures erectile function in men. It's based on the IIEF questionnaire, which was developed by the International Index of Erectile Function to help healthcare professionals evaluate male sexual function. The Erectile Function Domain score includes five questions that assess the frequency and quality of erections, and your answers are used to calculate your Erectile Function Domain score, also known as your "shim score".

How is the Erectile Function Domain score calculated?

The Erectile Function Domain score is calculated based on the answers to the five questions in the IIEF questionnaire. Here are the questions and the scoring system:

How often were you able to get an erection during sexual activity? Score: 0 = never, 1 = almost never, 2 = rarely, 3 = sometimes, 4 = most times, 5 = almost always

When you had erections with sexual stimulation, how often were your erections hard enough for penetration? Score: 0 = never, 1 = almost never, 2 = rarely, 3 = sometimes, 4 = most times, 5 = almost always

During sexual intercourse, how often were you able to maintain your erection after you had penetrated (entered) your partner? Score: 0 = never, 1 = almost never, 2 = rarely, 3 = sometimes, 4 = most times, 5 = almost always

During sexual intercourse, how difficult was it to maintain your erection to completion of intercourse? Score: 0 = extremely difficult, 1 = very difficult, 2 = difficult, 3 = slightly difficult, 4 = not difficult, 5 = not applicable

When you attempted sexual intercourse, how often was it satisfactory for you? Score: 0 = almost never or never, 1 = a few times (much less than half the time), 2 = sometimes (about half the time), 3 = most times (much more than half the time), 4 = almost always or always

To calculate your Erectile Function Domain score or Shim score, add up the scores for questions 1-5.

Your total score will be between 5 and 25, with higher scores indicating better erectile function. Once you have a baseline score, you can take the test again and see if your erectile function is changing over time.

Can I calculate my own Erectile Function Domain score?

Yes, you can calculate your own Erectile Function Domain score or Shim score if you have access to the IIEF questionnaire. The questionnaire is available online and can be completed at home. Once you've completed the questionnaire, you can add up your scores for questions 1-5 to calculate your Erectile Function Domain score or Shim score.

But what if I am experiencing Erectile Dysfunction?

Keep in mind that the Erectile Function Domain score is just one tool that healthcare professionals use to assess erectile dysfunction. If you're experiencing erectile dysfunction or other sexual issues, it's important to speak with your healthcare provider. They can help you determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and develop a treatment plan that's right for you.

There are many treatments available for erectile dysfunction, including medication, lifestyle changes, and therapy. Your healthcare provider can work with you to determine the best treatment approach based on your individual needs and health history.