Impotence, which is more commonly referred to as erectile dysfunction, is a medical condition that affects more than 150 million men throughout the world, according to medical professionals at the University of California San Francisco Medical Center. Men who develop any signs of impotence should seek further evaluation and care from a medical professional.
Inability to Achieve an Erection
Men who are repeatedly unable to achieve an erection during sexual stimulation may be diagnosed with impotence. Though it is normal for men to experience this impotence symptom occasionally, recurrent erection problems can be a more significant medical problem. Men with certain types of medical complications, including diabetes or high blood pressure, may be at an increased risk of becoming impotent, explains the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Affected men who want to maintain an active sex life should discuss potential treatment options with a physician.
Inability to Maintain an Erection
Certain men with erectile dysfunction may be able to achieve a partial or full erection, but are repeatedly unable to sustain the erection during sexual intercourse, explain health professionals with MayoClinic.com. This impotence symptom can also contribute to ejaculation difficulties and may interfere with a man's ability to impregnate a woman. A man may be unable to maintain an erection due to neurological, hormonal or psychological conditions, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore. Patients who experience recurrent difficulty maintaining an erection during sexual stimulation should speak with a physician for further care.
Decreased Sexual Libido
Decreased sexual libido or desire can arise as a symptom of impotence in certain men, warns MayoClinic.com. These libido changes may occur due to embarrassment caused by erection difficulties. Men who are anxious, depressed, stressed or are currently experiencing relationship problems may be at an increased risk of experiencing unusually low sexual desire, which may exacerbate erectile complications, explains UMMC. Though changes in sexual desire occur naturally as a man ages, men should discuss any concerns regarding these impotence symptoms with their partner and doctor.
References
- University of California San Francisco Medical Center: Erectile Dysfunction (Impotence)
- MayoClinic.com: Erectile Dysfunction
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Impotence and Loss of Libido
- Aurora Health Care: Impotence
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Impotence (Erectile Dysfunction)
