Male Impotence

continued from

Psychological Causes of Impotence

Psychological problems account for 60 per cent of cases of impotence. Counseling and psychotherapy are helpful and often result in dramatic improvement.

Psychological problems are usually based on fear, guilt or feelings of inadequacy. The more a man worries about not getting an erection, the more the erection is likely to fail. It becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. Relaxation training and professional psychosexual counseling are vital.

Psychosexual counseling often involves a temporary ban on penetrative sex. Sufferers are taught to relax with their partner while exploring each other's bodies afresh. Usually, it is agreed in advance that even if an erection is achieved, sexual penetration will not be attempted.

After several weeks of abstinence, couples are then allowed to try having sex with the partner on top. This is known as the Mistress position. The so-called 'Missionary position' (man on top) is not good for men with semi-rigid erections.

A caring and sympathetic partner is important. He or she is an invaluable support during the investigation and treatment of the partner's impotence. A partner who mocks or ridicules (or even feels overly sorry for) a man's performance is making the problem worse and may even have contributed to it in the first place.

Next: Premature Ejaculation

Last updated: 10/05

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