Male Sexual Function

Erectile Dysfunction (Impotence)

Signs and Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment

Signs and Symptoms

Erectile dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, is a common condition affecting an estimated 20 to 30 million men in the United States and over 150 million men worldwide. ED is defined as a man's inability to achieve and maintain an erection that is sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse. The ability to have an erection requires the normal, integrative functions of the nerves, blood vessels, muscles and brain.

ED may result from a variety of factors or a combination of factors. These may include psychological, neurological, hormonal and vascular disorders. Certain drugs and chronic diseases, as well as the natural aging process, also may contribute to ED. For more information, please see Causes of Erectile Dysfunction.

Symptoms

The hallmark symptom of erectile dysfunction is the inability to achieve and maintain an erection for satisfactory sexual intercourse. This condition also may involve problems with emission, ejaculation and orgasm.

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated May 8, 2007