What is the term for the inability of a male to achieve or sustain an erection of the penis?

The term for the inability of a male to achieve or sustain an erection of the penis is impotence. This condition, also known as erectile dysfunction, can result from various physical and psychological factors and is characterized by the persistent inability to maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. Understanding this term is crucial in the context of men’s health and medical coding, as it is associated with various diagnoses and treatment plans that may need to be documented and coded accurately in a clinical setting.

Phimosis refers to a condition in which the foreskin cannot be retracted over the glans of the penis, which is unrelated to the ability to achieve an erection. Ejaculation relates to the release of semen from the penis, which is separate from the process of achieving an erection. Castration, whether surgical or chemical, results in the removal or inhibition of testicular function but is not synonymous with impotence, as it involves different physiological processes. Thus, the correct answer reflects the specific medical terminology associated with erectile dysfunction.