Certain other Impediments

Impotence is physical inability to perform the marriage function. If this inability exists before marriage, and is incurable (that is, perpetual), it renders marriage impossible; itis a diriment impediment.

Inability to perform the marital act is diriment to marriage (if it occur before the valid marriage and is incurable) even if it come from preternatural causes, such as demons, and constitutes a kind of spell or bewitchment.

Insanity is an impediment to marriage, for madmencannot freely and knowingly make a valid contract. If it comes after marriage, of course, insanity does not affect the marriage bond. If insanity is not constant, so that the afflictedperson has intervals of sanity, he is capable of marrying at such times; yet it is most unwise for him to do so.

Incest committed by a spouse is a reason for which theother spouse may refuse marriage rights; but it does not dissolve a marriage.

Defect of age is an impediment to marriage. Girls under fourteen and boys under sixteen are debarred by church law from marrying. By the natural law, marriage is invalid for persons who have not attained puberty.