Symptoms of impotence

The main symptoms of impotence are:

• A failure to achieve an erection at all
• Unable to maintain an erection for penetrative sex
• Able to get an erection but it doesn’t last long enough during sex
• Loss of libido

In any of these cases, the partner feels unsatisfied and disappointed.

An inability to get an erection does not mean that this occurs all of the time. You may find that you are able to achieve an erection during masturbation or when you first wake up in the morning.

But, the problem occurs when you are with your partner. That is the situation when you develop impotence or erectile dysfunction.

There are numerous reasons for this which is covered in more detail throughout this guide. For instance, young men can become anxious at the thought of being able to ‘ perform’ and satisfying their partner. This is a major issue for young men who are often preoccupied with their sexual performance and its relationship to their masculinity.

Some men are worried about the risk of a pregnancy especially if this is something which they are totally unprepared for. They may not be ready or even interested in becoming a father so tense up before the sexual act which impairs their ability to perform.

Then there are men who dislike using a condom for a variety of reasons.

If you find that you are unable to get an erection when you are alone with your partner then chances are there is a psychological cause.

But, if you are unable to achieve an erection at any time then there may be an underlying physical cause. If so then this needs further investigation via your GP.

What are the complications of impotence?