Erectile dysfunction, also called impotence (lack of power), is considered to be a typically male problem, because it is generally expected that the penis should become sufficiently hard to enter the vagina and remain there long enough to provide pleasure, orgasm, and ejaculation. If this does not happen properly most people worry. There are also older men who have no erections anymore and accept that. They can still be good sexual partners and enjoy orgasm and ejaculation without an erection.

In most cases erectile dysfunction or impotence is problematic. Situations differ, as do causes. Some are simple and others complex.
Age is directly associated with erection problems. The general deterioration of physical and mental functions can be blamed, but only to some extent. Life style probably also plays a part, such as excessive drinking and smoking, obesity, depression, or the use of drugs against depression, obesity or blood pressure). Men who live healthy and balanced lives (which may very well include a little drinking and smoking), who are successful and have attractive love partners, can retain good erectile function until death.
When young men are impotent with a partner, even though they have morning erections and no problem when masturbating, the situation is to blame. He feels in adequate.
Since 1998 a drug called sildenafil has come on the market under the name Viagra. It became a world famous remedy for erectile dysfunction or impotence. It relaxes the smooth muscles round the small arteries of the penis, so that the blood can freely flow and fill the corpora cavernosa (hollow spaces) of the penis, making it hard. At the same time, the veins which carry the blood off when the penis is flaccid are closed, so that the erection continues for a sufficiently long time to have sexual intercourse. Viagra cannot normally be had without a doctor’s prescription, and is not normally covered by health insurance. Viagra is not an aphrodisiac, although pleasure in sex obviously increases if a desired erection is attained and held. But if there is little or no desire, Viagra does not help. Because Viagra may pose a risk for people with high blood pressure or cardiac problems. Viagra works only for four hours.
Certain plant extracts like Aswagandha, Safed musli, Crochus, ,yohimbine, papaverine, etc., have been used in ancient Ayurveda medicines with wonderful results. In ancient days Kings understood the importance of such herbs and used them to have sexual fun with numerous women. Scientific trials have shown their effectiveness in , and are prescribed in sexological practice in the modern days as no such efficient medications are available in Allopathy with out any side effects.