Impotence--some causes and cures.

Transient organic causes of impotence include alcohol consumption, drug use or inflammatory genital disease. Many diagnoses of organic impotence, with diabetes, for example, have been premature and have resulted in iatrogenic, psychogenic impotence. After a stroke, heart attack or major surgery, depression may cause impotence. Anxiety and sexual ignorance are major etiologic factors. Thus, sex education and uncomplicated sex therapy can achieve a high percentage of cure. Penile plethysmography during sleep provides useful information. Penile prostheses are helpful for appropriately motivated couples when there is permanent impotence.