Impotence, or erectile dysfunction, is the inability to get an erection or maintain one long enough to successfully engage in intercourse. It is usually considered a symptom of an underlying cause, as opposed to a condition in itself. According to the Cleveland Clinic, as many as 10 percent of men will suffer from impotence at some point in their lives. However, there are many treatment options to treat this condition.
Medications
Oral medications can maintain an erection by increasing blood flow to the penis. The drugs still require sexual stimulation in order to produce an erection, as they will not directly cause the penis to become erect on its own. They are generally administered one to four hours before sexual activity. Common side effects include headache, upset stomach, runny nose and changes in vision, according to MayoClinic.com. If an erection lasts for longer than four hours, medical attention should be sought. Other medications, such as those inserted into the urethra or directly injected into the penis, may also be used to treat impotence.
Psychotherapy
At times, the cause of impotence may simply be the result of too much stress, anxiety or depression at a particular time in a man’s life. Stressors, such as in the workplace or at home, may cause a man to experience difficulty in maintaining an erection. Psychotherapy, a type of personal counseling with a trained mental health professional, may help resolve these issues and improve sexual function, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Pumps
A penis pump consists of a plastic tube that is placed over the penis. The tube is attached to a pump which creates a vacuum that draws blood to the penis. This increased blood flow aids in producing an erection. Once an erection is achieved, a tension ring is placed at the base of the penis to keep the blood in the penis, and thus maintain an erection. It is important to not leave the ring in place for longer than 30 minutes as it may cause damage to the penis, according to MayoClinic.com.
Implants
If medications or other types of treatment are unsuccessful, surgical implants may be considered for the treatment of impotence. In the procedure, an implant is placed inside the penis to help a man get and maintain an erection. Implants may consist of rod-like or inflatable devices that can be filled with fluid to produce an erection, according to MayoClinic.com. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and takes between one and two hours. Sexual activity may be resumed four to six weeks following implantation.
