January 12, 2007, Newsletter Issue #10: Impotence

Tip of the Week

Impotence, or the lack of ability to attain or sustain an erection for penetration during intercourse, is one of the primary causes of male infertility. This is also called "erectile dysfunction (ED)."

There are different medical conditions that can contribute to ED, including hormonal imbalances, history of trauma to the pelvis, medication side effects, psychological factors, structural problems, and complications of certain chronic diseases. Your ED may be caused by one or more of these conditions.

1. Hormonal imbalances can effect erection and ejaculation, and include: low testosterone levels, and pituitary or thyroid malfunction.

2. Traumatic causes can include: straddle injuries, penile amputation, pelvic fractures, or puncture wounds to the penis, bladder or testes.

3. Medication Side Effects from medications such as: high blood pressure medication (Lisinopril), anti-depressants (Trazadone), anti-histamines (Benedryl), narcotic pain medication (morphine), diuretics (Lasix) or muscle relaxants (Flexeril).

4. Psychological factors which can contribute to ED include: stress, anxiety, depression, guilt, low self-esteem and indifference.

5. Structural problems, which can include: diseases or injuries to the blood vessels in the pelvis and penis, muscle malformation or damage, or congenital nerve structure anomalies.

6. Complications of diseases, like diabetes, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's Disease, Muscular Dystrophy, Kidney Disease, Hypertension and Stroke.

Since many of these contributors to impotence and male infertility are treatable, it is important that you talk with your healthcare provider about the best treatment for your erectile dysfunction.

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