Impotence is a common problem which affects at least one in ten men, this means around 2.5 million British men are suffering with this problem. Because of embarrassment or ignorance,  it is estimated that only 10% of these men ever seek medical advice. This is unfortunate because the condition is treatable in the majority of cases.

Most men will occasionally encounter this problem, which can usually be attributed to tiredness, stress or excess of alcohol, the situation soon resolves itself when the cause is taken away. However, this can sometimes be the start of a vicious circle when the man subsequently worries about not being able to get an erection and his preoccupation prevents him from becoming aroused. Treatment may involve simple relaxation techniques, which help to break the cycle. Some of the psychological causes of impotence are:
Worry about your sexual performance, can sometimes be linked with premature ejaculation.
Stress and anxiety at work or in the home.
Marital conflicts and dissatisfaction.
Unresolved sexual orientation.
Sexual boredom.
Depression.

For many years impotence was considered to be entirely in the mind but now experts have established links to a number of physical conditions which may be causing the problem or contributing to it.  Men with a medical cause to their problem, will often notice a gradual onset of the condition rather than a sudden failure. The cause could be any of the following:
One of the main physical causes is blocked arteries, which gradually reduce the blood flow to the penis.
There is also the reverse problem when the veins allow too much blood to drain from the penis, which prevents an erection forming.
Occasionally the spongy tissue which normally becomes engorged with blood to create and erection, can become diseased or damaged.
The nerves to and from the penis can get damaged or become diseased.
Chronic disease of organs such as the liver and kidneys.
Hormone imbalance or deficiency.
Side effects of prescribed drugs.
Alcoholism or drug abuse.
Neurological disease.
High cholesterol.
Heavy smoking.
Diabetes.

Treatment of impotence has come on leaps and bounds in recent years and the condition is now very rarely untreatable. Quite often simple changes to your lifestyle will remedy the situation. For example, reducing alcohol intake, resolve any issues causing stress or anxiety, and stop smoking. If your problem persists or is not attributable to any of these causes, you should have a talk with your GP. If necessary you will be referred to a specialist in erectile dysfunction.