These signals cause the blood vessels to widen and allow the penis to fill with blood and become erect. Many conditions can interfere with these signals, causing erectile dysfunction. Damage to the nerves may be caused by stroke or spinal cord injury, or may occur during prostate surgery or other types of surgery. Diabetes and long-term heavy alcohol use can also damage the nerves' ability to send signals. Other hormone abnormalities may also cause erection problems.
Many medicines can affect the ability to have sex.
Medicines can decrease the ability to have an erection. Medicines can also affect the level of interest in sex and the ability to have an orgasm. Medicines used to treat high blood pressure, heart disease, depression and heartburn are among the most common medicines that interfere with the ability to have an erection. Psychologic Problems Depression, anxiety or stress may also cause problems with erectile function. In some men, not feeling satisfied with their sexual function may lead to depression or other psychologic symptoms.