The interest in the subject of sexuality is huge, but as far as potency disorders are concerned, there is great speechlessness. Despite all the enlightenment, the term “impotence” has a decidedly negative connotation. And so many men shy away from addressing the problem in their partnership or even with a doctor. In Germany, an estimated three to five million men suffer from erectile dysfunction, with the frequency increasing with age. Exact figures are not available, however – no wonder, given that this is a taboo subject. If in the past the lack of stiffness was blamed on the psyche, today it is assumed that in half of those affected there are organic disorders and in about 20 percent a combination of physical and psychological causes.
Forms of potency disorder
As is so often the case, the word usage of the vernacular does not quite match that of the medical profession. In medical jargon, impotence is a generic term for both a man’s inability to perform coitus and his inability to reproduce:
- Erectile dysfunction (impotentia coeundi), also referred to as erectile dysfunction (ED): Here, the penis does not become stiff at all, not enough or not long enough, so that the sexual act can not be completed.
- Inability to procreate (Impotentia generandi), also called sterility or infertility: In this case, erection and orgasm ability are present and ejaculation occurs. However, there is the inability to reproduce (infertility).
In common parlance, impotence means only the first form. Since causes, diagnostics and treatment options are very different, the following will be discussed only the erectile dysfunction.
Causes of impotence disorders
For an erection to occur, a complex set of rules consisting of nerves, blood vessels, hormones and psyche must work together. The causes of erectile dysfunction are correspondingly diverse. The fact that erectile dysfunction increases with age is due to the fact that the arterial blood supply is also “getting on in years” – the vessels become stiffer and narrower and can no longer react appropriately. In addition, the production of the male sex hormone testosterone decreases: sexual stimulation no longer leads as quickly to arousal and erection, it takes longer to reach orgasm and the sperm count also decreases. Other risk factors for potency disorders include:
- Overweight
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Too little exercise
Erectile dysfunction can also be an indication of serious diseases such as diabetes, arteriosclerosis, hypertension or liver and kidney dysfunction (which also increases with age) – not infrequently, the problems with the “little friend” are the first indication of these diseases.
Impotence: role of the psyche
Since sex begins in the mind, psychological factors such as stress, anxiety or pressure to perform can also be the reason why the stronger sex weakens. Conversely, erectile dysfunction affects male well-being and often leads to frustration and fear of not being able to “do it” again the next time – a vicious circle of fear of failure and renewed failure, which is all the more difficult to escape the less men dare to talk about it.
Potency problems as a warning sign
Erectile dysfunction is a serious warning sign of a condition that may require treatment. Therefore, a doctor should always be consulted. In the vast majority of cases, one (or more) of the following is the underlying cause:
- Effects of cardiovascular disease.
- Lipid metabolism disorders
- Diabetes
- Kidney damage
- Damage to the spine, which are based on wear and tear
- Hormonal problems
- Disease of the nervous system, for example MS (multiple sclerosis).
- Drug abuse
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- Alcohol abuse
- Depression
- Personality conflicts
- Surgery or injury to the prostate
- Stress
Bicycle saddles can not cause potency disorders
In the past, many scientists assumed that bicycle saddles can seriously cause potency disorders. Due to teardrop-shaped design of the bicycle saddle, approximately one-third of the entire body weight rests on the perineum, the area between the anus and external genitals, when sitting.Therefore, frequent and prolonged sitting on a bicycle seat has been associated with worsened blood flow to the penis and damage to the nerves. However, recent studies with a larger number of subjects were able to disprove this assumption. Nevertheless, a few simple tips will help improve blood flow to the penis while cycling. Everything about the possible connection between impotence and cycling, as well as the relevant tips, can be found in this article.
Diagnosis and treatment of potency disorders
If there is a suspicion of potency disorders, a doctor should always be consulted. This can then clarify possible psychological and physical causes together with the affected person and, in case of doubt, exclude other underlying diseases. In addition to an initial consultation, an examination of the sexual organs and, as a rule, a urine and blood test take place. Depending on the possible cause, further examinations using X-rays or ultrasound are used. Both medication and mechanical aids are available for the treatment of potency disorders. Surgery is conceivable in principle, but is rarely used due to the lack of prospects of success. You can learn more about the diagnosis and treatment of potency disorders here.
