National Impotence Day Date in the current year: February 14, 2024

Erectile dysfunction (ED), commonly known as impotence, is the type of sexual dysfunction in which the penis is regularly or repeatedly unable to become or stay erect during sexual activity. It is the most common sexual problem in men which can seriously damage their self-image (because sexual prowess has long been viewed as an important attribute of “manliness”) and affect the emotional well-being of both men suffering from the disorder and their partners. 

In about 80% of all cases, the underlying causes of erectile dysfunction are purely physiological. The most common of them include neurological problems, diabetes, cardiovascular problems, endocrine disorders resulting in low testosterone levels, side effects of certain prescription drugs, smoking and some other lifestyle habits, and aging. About 10% of ED cases are psychological, caused by feelings or thoughts.

ED treatment depends on the underlying cause. First-line treatments include oral medications and vacuum erection devices, whereas surgery (penile implant) is seen as the last resort. Vascular reconstructive surgery can be effective when erectile dysfunction is caused by cardiovascular problems. If the underlying cause of impotence is psychological (for example, sex-related stress and anxiety), treatment is focused on counseling. 

Impotence has long been stigmatized, and even today most men suffering from erectile dysfunction are ashamed and embarrassed of their condition and don’t want to discuss it even with their partners and physicians. But how can you solve a problem if you don’t talk about it? According to statistics, about three quarters of all diagnosed ED cases go untreated, and who knows how many cases aren’t formally diagnosed because of the stigma. Sadly, a lot of men are unaware that erectile dysfunction can be a symptom of serious health conditions, and they endanger their lives by not seeking help. 

This is why it is so important to raise ED awareness and destigmatize impotence. National Impotence Day was created for this very purpose. Its origins are unclear, but there are mentions of the day being observed in the United States and the United Kingdom. It is supported and promoted by various healthcare organizations, pharmaceutical companies and other stakeholders that organize various awareness events.

If you’re interested in observing National Impotence Day, you should know that there are several ways to do it. You can learn more about erectile dysfunction, its causes and treatment, share the information you’ve learned with others (because normalizing discussions about impotence is the best way to remove the stigma surrounding it), take a pledge to live a healthier lifestyle in order to prevent ED (or encourage your partner to live a healthier lifestyle if you’re a woman), and spread the word about the observance on social media with the hashtag #NationalImpotenceDay.