Impotence

Erectile dysfunction, also known as impotence, is the total lack of capability to have an erection, an inconsistency in having one, and also a tendency to have and maintain erections for only a short period of time during sexual relations. These variations make it difficult to establish a definition of erectile dysfunction and document the frequency.

Investigative studies report a frequency of erectile dysfunction ranging from 15 to 30 million, depending upon the definition that is used.

Before considering the causes related to impotency, it is important to mention that the male erection requires various components:

  • Sexual appetite and desire (libido).
  • Integrity of the nervous system.
  • Presence of reproductive hormones: an important part of male sexual function, in particular testosterone.
  • Integrity of the peripheral vascular system: the penis contains an enormous vascular system that is necessary to have and maintain an erection.

If we consider that male sexual function requires all of these components to work properly, it is easy to reach conclusions about the most common causes of impotence.

Psychological Factors:it is estimated that more than half of the cases of impotence or erectile dysfunction are due to psychological causes. Among psychological causes one stress, depression and loss of libido.

Neurological Factors: these factors are less common than psychological factors, but are also an important cause of impotence. Some examples of neurological factors are diabetes mellitus and problems with the spine and backbone.

Vascular Factors: circulatory aspects are causes of impotence. The most common examples are an inadequate blood flow, diabetes mellitus, elevated cholesterol levels and lipids in the blood, elevated blood pressure, and arteriosclerosis.

Medications: many medications interfere with the vascular and nerve functions of the male reproductive system. The most common examples are those medications that are used to treat depression and heart disease.

Hormonal Factors: the loss of testosterone is associated with impotence and the absence of secondary sexual characteristics such as changes in the voice and in the presence of body hair.

Treatment

There are various treatments for impotency. Many doctors suggest that the treatments must go from less to more. First, it is suggested to stop taking any medication that can cause side effects.

Psychotherapy in certain patients is next, if indicated, and after this oral or locally injected medications, vacuum devices or surgical implants. In rare cases, surgery involving the veins and arteries may be considered.

If you think you suffer from erectile dysfunction or impotence, talk with your doctor or health professional.

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