What Is Male Impotence?

Male impotence, also known as erectile dysfunction or simply ED, is a sexual health issue where a man cannot maintain an erection of adequate quality for sexual activity. Impotence is a very common problem, and it will affect most men at one time or another. ED is often a temporary condition, but it can also become a persistent problem, especially in older men.

Etymology

• Throughout much of the 20th century, the topic of male impotence was not generally accepted in most social situations, and the term impotence earned a very negative connotation. Impotence was not well understood by many people, In some cases, it was seen as a lack of manliness. During the late 20th and early 21st centuries, society gradually became more open to discussing sexual topics, and the term impotence was largely replaced by erectile dysfunction, which did not carry the same stigma.

Aging

• Perhaps the most common risk factor for developing ED is age. Over time, the male body releases less testosterone, which decreases overall sexual desire. At the same time, the body tends to become less active with more body fat, higher cholesterol and higher blood pressure, which can all contribute toward developing ED. ED is extremely common in men over the age of 50, though it is possible for a man to maintain sexual activity into their seventies and eighties without being significantly affected by it.

Temporary Impotence

• Temporary impotence can be caused by a variety of factors and can last from a an hour or less to a few weeks, depending on the cause. Extreme physical or mental fatigue often leads to ED. Exposure to cold or hot temperatures can also lead to temporary impotence. Injury to the genitalia--such as by blunt trauma--or surgery to the spinal or pelvic area can also cause ED.

Psychological Triggers

• While ED may seem like a purely physiological problem, the root of the problem often lies in psychological issues. High levels of stress can lead to ED. Depression is another common cause of impotence. Problems in a relationship, especially with one's partner, are likely to cause ED, as can a general lack of sexual desire or a feeling that sex has become too routine. The onset of ED can cause fear about lacking sexual performance which can further perpetuate the problem.

Treatment

• The proper treatment for impotence depends largely upon the contributing factors. If a man just had a fight with his wife--and experienced ED for the first time--resolving the tension in the relationship could likely fix the problem. An obese or unfit person may be able to improve performance by losing weight and getting into shape. Medications like Viagra--which allow men to achieve an erection temporarily--are best used by men with many contributing factors which may be difficult to overcome.