Impotence

Impotence, also called "erectile dysfunction" is a consistent inability to sustain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. Impotence can be a total inability to achieve erection, an inconsistent ability to do so, or a tendency to sustain only brief erections. An erection requires a sequence of events. Impotence can be a result of a disruption in one of the events. The sequence involves nerve impulses in the brain, spinal column, and area of the penis, and response in muscles, fibrous tissues, veins, and arteries in and near the corpora cavernosa.