Impotence can be a total inability to achieve erection, an inconsistent ability to do so, or a tendency to sustain only brief erections. Yet, it is not an inevitable part of aging. Impotence and erectile dysfunction should be distinguished from other conditions that interfere with sexual intercourse, such as lack of sexual desire and problems with ejaculation and orgasm. Damage to arteries, smooth muscles, and nerves of the penis can lead to impotence. One common cause of impotence is blood vessel and nerve damage due to diabetes mellitus.
Some common medicines produce impotence as a side effect.
Smoking affects blood flow in veins and arteries, and is also believed to lead to impotence. Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, guilt, depression, low self-esteem, and fear of sexual failure are associated with impotence. If the underlying condition leading to impotence cannot be corrected, or if impotence problems persist, medications can help certain men achieve erection sufficient for sexual Intercourse as well as maintain erection after penetration. The penis contains two chambers, called the corpora cavernosa, which run the length of the organ. Erection begins with sensory and mental stimulation.