Impotence

Impotence is when a man is unable to achieve or maintain an erection until he ejaculates. Blood flow to the penis allows an erection to occur. When the flow of blood is restricted it prevents an erection from occurring. It is common for most men to experience occasional impotence. Stress, alcohol, certain medications can cause occasional impotence.

Ongoing impotence can be caused by a number of physical and psychological problems.Over half of all impotence is psychological in nature. Bouts of impotence can lead to a man questioning his masculinity. Fear, frustration, embarrassment and questions about virility make problems of impotence greater. Men also have difficulty talking about what they are experiencing.

Physical Causes of Impotence:

• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Prostate cancer surgery
• Multiple sclerosis
• Hormone disorders
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Tobacco use
• Certain prescription medicines

Psychological Causes of Impotence:

• Depression
• Stress
• Anxiety about sexual performance
• Negative relationship with sexual partner

Treatment Methods:

• Adjustment of prescription medications taken for medical conditions such as high blood pressure or depression
• Pelvic exercises [know as Kegel exercises]
• Injection therapy [drugs are injected into the erectile tissue of the penis to increase blood flow]
• Hormone therapy
• Penile implants
• Prescription medication for impotence

Men who have questions about impotence should talk with their physician to determine if treatment is needed.