Erectile dysfunction (or "impotence" meaning "loss of power" in Latin) is defined as the inability to develop or maintain an erection, ejaculation, or both. Impotence doesn't necessarily affect sexual arousal and the ability to reach an orgasm.

Erectile dysfunction isn't a new notion in human experience or medicine, but it is not easily or openly discussed. Many men are restrained from seeking help for this disorder because of cultural expectations of male sexuality. But, fortunately, this problem in most cases can be successfully treated with medical drugs.

No matter how old a man is, a time may come when he will find it difficult (or impossible) to achieve and/or maintain an erection. And while for any man it might be really distressful, it is not the end of the world. According to medical researchers' reports between 18 and 20 million American men experience some type of erectile dysfunction. Usually sex therapists diagnose impotence if failure at intercourse happens on at least 25% of attempts.

There are lots of causes of sex disorders. Inability to sustain (or even achieve) an erection might be related to erectile dysfunction as well as to the following factors:

Overweight men are more likely to have erectile dysfunction. Unfortunately, many men tend to overeat and don't give attention to exercises. But in fact it's a great mistake to think that being overweight can't affect the ability to perform in the bedroom.

Regular exercises (thirty minutes a day at least 5 days a week) can greatly reduce the risk of erectile dysfunction. Being a couch potato, vice versa, increases the chances of having problems in bed. But it's better sure to consult with a doctor before beginning any type of exercise program.

Smoking damages blood vessels, and as a result it can restrict blood flow to the penis. That's why men who smoke experience problems getting and maintaining an erection more often than nonsmokers.

Some men think that drinking a lot of alcohol makes them sexy but it can actually keep them from having an erection. So anytime a man wants to enjoy an evening of sexual intercourse with his partner, he should limit alcohol consumption to only one or two drinks.

Diabetes, high cholesterol, depression, kidney disease are also the conditions that effect men's ability to have erection.

Men experiencing any type of stress should also be aware of their liability to erectile dysfunction. Feelings of anxiety, stress, inadequacy, guilt, depression or sheer boredom can result in the inability to achieve or maintain an erection due to psychological rather than physical causes.

If a man takes any prescription drugs take into account that some drugs can interfere with the ability to have an erection. It's necessary to always check with doctor and ask about possible side effects for any medications prescribed, especially any drugs for high blood pressure.

If you do experience a problem with an erection, there is no need to become upset or mad. However, if the problem persists, you should explain the problem to a medical professional.

From time to time all men experience erection problems. So if a man has an occasional problem in achieving an erection, there is really nothing to worry about. Sometimes just having a good night's sleep can take care of the problem.

However, if the problem occurs in that area systematically when trying to have sexual intercourse, it's better to make an appointment with a specialist.