Questions about impotence causes and treatments? Call 1.866.261.5268 for
more information on treatments and our free monthly seminars.
Impotence is a widespread problem that affects millions of men. It may
also occur at any age and at any time in a man's sexual life. While
impotence is a problem for men, it also affects couples and families.
The good news is that due to recent medical advances, more and more men
are discovering that they may overcome impotence and the surrounding feelings
of frustration, embarrassment, and tension.
What is Impotence?
A man who is impotent is persistently unable to get or keep an erection
that is firm enough for sexual intercourse. He may still have the ability
to have an orgasm and father a child, but often cannot get or keep his erection.
Many men in certain situations or at one time or another during their sexual
life are unable to get or keep an erection. This is considered normal
and does not necessarily indicate a problem.
What Causes Impotence?
A man's inability to get and maintain an erection can be caused by
many disorders. The causes can either be physical or psychological. For
many men, the cause of impotence may be fairly easily identified. Once
identified, proper treatment can be recommended to help them return to
a satisfying sex life.
Psychological Impotence
Psychological impotence is caused by a man's anxiety or fear that he
will not be able to perform well sexually. This is often referred to as
"performance anxiety." A man who is worried about getting an
erection cannot relax and may not be able to get an erection.
Physical Impotence
Recent studies have shown that more than 80% of men suffering from impotence
can trace the origin to a physical problem.
Physical impotence may be caused by:
- physical disorders, such as an injury
- diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension
- an operation
Certain substances may also interfere with erections and cause physical
impotence. These substances may include:
- alcohol
- tobacco
- drugs
- certain medications
How is the Cause of Impotence Determined?
A first step toward overcoming impotence is to have a qualified urologist
determine whether the problem is psychological or physical. A urologist
is a physician who specializes in diseases of the urinary tract and the
male reproductive system.
A urologist will most likely start with a general conversation about the
history of the problem. The physician may use different testing methods
that, together with patient consultation, may help determine the problem's
cause. Usually a routine physical examination and blood test to determine
hormone levels are required. Sometimes special tests may be helpful, such as:
- measuring the blood flow to the penis
- checking nerve impulses to the penis
- tracking erections experienced during sleep
Once the cause of impotence has been diagnosed, a method of overcoming
impotence may be more readily recommended.
How is Psychological Impotence Treated?
The preferred treatment for many men with psychological impotence is counseling
or sex therapy. The following can provide this type of counseling:
- Clergyman
- Psychologist
- Licensed marriage and family counselor
- Psychiatrist
- Other physician experienced in dealing with sexual problems
How is Physical Impotence Treated?
There are many potential causes of physical impotence. Depending on the
cause, the following treatment options are available:
- Pills or injections (commonly used in hormone-related cases)
- Vacuum erection devices
- Penile injection therapy
- Vascular reconstructive surgery and venous ligation
- Penile implantation
What is the Process for Finding a Solution?
There is no one solution to impotence. Please call 1.866.261.5268 for more
information on how to begin the process. Monterey Park Hospital has free
monthly seminars on impotence causes and solutions. Check our
events calendar for the next seminar.