Erectile Disorder

Erectile disorder (ED), often referred to as impotence, is the inability to attain or maintain an erection sufficient for intercourse the majority of the time. Inability to achieve an erection occurs due to limited blood flow to the penis that could be caused by several factors: exhaustion; medication or alcohol use; heart disease; chronic illnesses; or emotional, social, or psychological factors. Because ED affects sexual health and satisfaction, couple intimacy, work, and social interaction and can also have a psychological component, it is often discussed in counseling sessions. This entry discusses the diagnosis and description of ED as well as the diagnosis with regard to the typical male sexual cycle. In addition, this entry details the causes, psychological and relationship issues, consequences, and common treatments ...