Male impotence is a medical condition characterized by the inability to achieve or maintain an erection. This is often damaging the relationship and to the self-esteem of the men who suffer from this problem. The causes of impotence may be either physical or psychological. For instance, medical problems like cardiovascular disease and diabetes have been linked to impotence; depression and anxiety are other known causes. In a few cases, physical abnormalities or injuries to the penis may be the cause.
Impotence may also be called erectile dysfunction (ED).