Impotence is mens inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. It includes the failure to get an erection as a result of sexual stimulation or to lose your erection prior to ejaculation.

Types of impotence

Arteriogenic impotence: The arteries supply blood to the penis. When arteries narrow, they fail to bring in sufficient blood to the penis resulting in erectile dysfunction. It mainly occurs in elderly people. Those who are diabetic or have high blood pressure are also prone to it. Arteriogenic impotence due to injuries is common but often goes unnoticed because of ignorance. Later the injured discovers it and seeks medical help.

Venogenic impotence: During erection, the veins of the penis close down in a normal individual. This hardens the penis assisting a complete erection. But when the veins leak blood, the penis fails to sustain an erection thus leading to Venogenic impotence. It is the most common form, which accounts to 30-70% of impotence.

Neurogenic impotence: The nerve supply to the penis is sensitive and complicated. These nerves control the arteries and veins, which change the blood flow within the penis. An injury to the back or other nerves related to the penis can cause Neurogenic impotence. Many operations on the rectum, prostrate, urethra, spine and urinary bladder are performed for improving the performance.

Impotence from Diabetes Mellitus: Impotence is very common among diabetics. A study showed around 50% of diabetics as patients of male impotence.

Endocrinologic impotence: When there is an imbalance of sex hormones in the blood stream, erection doesnt occur. Nearly 5 to 10% of men suffer from Endocrinologic impotence.

Mixed impotence: More than one factor can cause impotence in men. It could be physical factors as well as psychological factors. Mixed impotence refers to this form of impotence.

Psychogenic impotence: Sometimes, the problem lies entirely in the mind. There will be no physical factors accompanying erectile dysfunction. This is a state of Psychogenic impotence. People often undergo bouts of depression and anxiety.

See a doctor if you have difficulty in attaining or maintaining an erection. The earlier you find out, the easier it becomes to diagnose and treat.