It's true. Just talk about it. To your doctor. To your partner. To, if possible, your friend. Because impotence, or erectile dysfunction, is so common, one man in ten is affected. And the cure begins with your being open about it. It needs understanding, and it's a actually treatable. And often, the causes are neither frightening nor permanent.

Causes ::
Performance anxiety is the most common. Causes can be medical, surgical or physiological. Diabetes (up to 50% of diabetic men suffer from impotence). Ageing (sexual activity decline after 50). Hereditary, neurological or endocrinal conditions. Fractured pelvis, ruptured urethra, genital malformations. Depression, alcoholism, schizophrenia, drug abuse, tranquilizers, antidepressants, anti-hypertensives. Sexual abuse.

Treatment ::
Overcome embarrassment and meet your doctor. Specific treatment depends on the diagnosis. Pills, penile medication, hormone replacement. Surgical implants. Vascular surgery. Counseling, both marital and sexual, is important, since an emotional or relationship problem can contribute to the problems. The first and most important step is, of course to begin to talk to your doctor. Do it today.