Impotence, also known as erectile dysfunction (ED), is the persistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. It can result from physical causes such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, hormonal imbalances, nerve damage, or medication side effects, as well as psychological factors including stress, anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. Because normal erectile function depends on healthy blood flow, nerve signaling, and hormonal balance, impotence may sometimes indicate an underlying health condition, particularly cardiovascular disease. Symptoms may vary from occasional difficulty to consistent impairment. Proper medical evaluation is important to identify contributing factors and assess overall health.