Commonly Asked Questions About Impotence

What is impotence?

Impotence is a type of erectile dysfunction which affects up to 1 in 10 men in the UK. Impotence is defined as the inability to achieve an erection to perform sexual activity. It is sometimes confused with other common sexual disorders such as premature ejaculation and retarded ejaculation. The former occurs when a man reaches orgasm too quickly, whereas retarded ejaculation, also known as delayed ejaculation, is when a man fails to reach a climax when erect.

What is the difference between erectile dysfunction and impotence?

The difference between erectile dysfunction and impotence has become largely academic, as both terms are now used interchangeably. In the past, impotence used to refer to the inability to achieve an erection. Erectile dysfunction was a more general term, which described a wider range of erectile problems such as losing your erection during intercourse, or not being able to achieve an erection firm enough to penetrate.

It’s thought that companies marketing impotence treatments began to refer to them as erectile dysfunction treatments, because it was felt that the word impotence had negative connotations. However, over time, the reverse began to also happen and erectile dysfunction began to be referred to as impotence. It’s now generally accepted that the 2 mean the same thing - the inability to achieve or maintain an erection for long enough to achieve sexual intercourse.

Who is likely to suffer from impotence?

Because impotence is such a common sexual disorder, men of all ages experience it at some point in their lives, although it is more common in older men. Impotence in teenagers and young men is frequently caused by anxiety, about causing pregnancy, or about using a condom. Common causes for middle aged men and older men include stress, guilt and bereavement.

Older men are more likely to suffer from impotence due to physical causes, such as heart disease and diabetes. But it’s important to remember that not all older men are affected, as over 70 % of all 70-year-olds are still sexually potent.

Are many cases due to psychological causes?

In many cases impotence is likely to be caused by psychological factors, especially if the sufferer is still waking with an erection in the morning and can still get an erection through masturbation. Nerves, depression, exhaustion, guilt and relationship problems can all contribute to impotence.

What physical causes can cause impotence?

Common physical causes of impotence include:

• Consumption of prescription medications causing impotence
• Consumption of recreational drugs such as cocaine
• Deterioration of the arteries men, including those with high blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Obesity
• Smoking

What should I do if I think I am impotent?

The worst thing a man can do is suffer in silence. Impotence should not be taboo and should be discussed openly with your partner and your doctor. A doctor can do an examination to find the physical causes that may be linked to impotence. Suitable treatment can then be prescribed.

What drug treatments are available for impotence?

There is a choice of 3 oral prescription drug medications for treating impotence. Viagra, Cialis and Levitra share similar properties although each works slightly differently. Viagra is proven to last for up to 4 hours. Cialis works in the same way as Viagra but has longer lasting effects, sometimes up to 36 hours. Levitra last for up to 4 hours like Viagra, but is more easily tolerated by the body and is usually prescribed for men with underlying health concerns.

What non-drug treatments are available?

Treatment depends on the cause of impotence and the suitability of the individual. Sometimes drug treatments are unnecessary and counselling, psychotherapy or relationship counselling may be more appropriate.

What mechanical aids are there for impotence?

There are a number of devices that men can use to achieve a stronger erection for sustaining successful sexual intercourse. Vacuum pumps, cock rings and vibrators can be purchased at local sex shops or online. These aids are not impotence treatments, but they can help to further sexually stimulate men with only minor impotence and make them feel more confident.

Can surgery treat impotence?

Because of the vastly improved drug treatments for impotence that are widely available in the UK, the option to treat impotence with surgery is not strongly advised. The risk of adverse side effects is greater, and the repercussions can be permanent.