Impotence is the inability to maintain an erection of sufficient firmness to permit the initiation or completion of sexual intercourse. Impotence can have a physical or psychological cause. It’s a very common problem and affects most men at least once during lifetime. In the past the cause behind impotence was considered completely psychic, now it is seen that the 90% of impotence cases have physical cause. Nerve damage, neurological conditions, medications and reduced blood flow are some of the physical causes of impotence. Psychological causes of impotence include anxiety, depression and stress.
There are many physical causes for impotence, which can range from easily curable or avoidable, to very severe causes. Following are some of the common physical causes of impotence:
- Side effects of medications and drugs
- Structural damage to the sexual organ
- Problems with blood supply to the penis
- Hormonal disorders
- Smoking
- Excessive consumption of alcohol
Most cases of impotence have physical causes, but in some men, psychological factors are the major contributors to impotence. Stress, fear, guilt, depression, performance anxiety, and low self-esteem are some of the factors that can lead to impotence. Psychological factors are often at the origin of the impotence. Psychological factor is very important, because impotence can severely affect self- esteem, can cause depression and make the problem even more worse.
Impotence may have more than one cause. If you are worried about your sexual response, don’t be afraid to talk to your doctor, he can suggest you treatments that can help.
