The generandi and coeundi impotence for men and women: humano modo, verum semen.

Abstract

In this article the Author deals with the issue of impotence according to three perspectives: juridical-canonical, juridical-civil, medical.

In accordance to the Canonical Law, the impotence to do the copulation (impotentia coeundi), unlike sterility, is a settled impediment and invalids the marriage. This impotence can be of two kinds: organic or functional. It must be, then, previous the marriage and permanent.

In Civil Law, impotence, as inconvenience or anomaly or disease, can raise several problems: the check’s request and the paternity disownment are prevalent.

Finally, about the medical aspect, it be dealt to Canonical Law’s advantage. In this sense, the Author specifies the clinical difference between sterility and impotence and clarifies the meaning of some terms that are often utilized to describe situations concerning the procreation in the couple.