Erectile dysfunction is the consistent inability to maintain an erection when you want to have one. The most common complaints among men seeking counseling about sexuality, is the inability to maintain an erection. As with inhibited sexual excitement, several other things can cause you to not be able to have an erection on a temporary basis -- alcohol, fatigue, stress, or not being to familiar with your partner.
Impotence, also known as erectile dysfunction (ED), is defined as the inability to achieve and maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse. It is a common and treatable condition. Unfortunately, a percentage of men never seek treatment. The majority of impotence cases have physical causes. The main cause of impotence is poor blood supply to the penis. However, there are several other possible causes. The rest of the cases are due to psychological factors. Knowing the cause of your condition will help in the decision for treatment.