Impotence following the discovery of azoospermia

Sixteen couples were interviewed after the male had been discovered to be infertile. Of these couples, 63% of the men had experienced a period of impotence and 87% of the women had experienced rage toward the husband, symptoms, and/or dreams which incorporated three themes: concern for the husband, a wish to be rid of him, and guilt over this wish. Husbands whose wives were symptom-free did not experience impotence. These findings suggest that impotence following the discovery of azoospermia is common and should be regarded as an interactional problem. Clinical management is recommended which includes reassuring the couple that the impotence is expected and that it will resolve within 3 months, and focusing on the couple's reaction to the diagnosis.