The very mention of the word “erection” can make people feel uncomfortable, but it is a perfectly normal, healthy, and natural physical process that occurs in all males, regardless of age, size, or race. An erection is a physiological response that happens when the body is excited, stimulated, or aroused. When aroused, the veins and arteries that send blood to the penis dilate, allowing more blood to enter than normal. This results in an increase in penis size, hardening, and elevation. Erections can also occur in response to erotic, auditory, and/or visual stimulation.
Erections are essential for sexual satisfaction in males, but erectile dysfunction (ED) can interfere with this important process. This can lead to much frustration for men and their partners. Fortunately, erectile dysfunction is treatable and research is paving the way for many promising new treatments.
In this article, we will discuss the anatomy and physiology of erections, what causes erectile dysfunction, and the current treatments options. We will also cover some tips and advice for avoiding ED issues and discuss support resources and groups available for those dealing with this chronic condition.
Understanding the Anatomy and Physiology of Erections
Erections involve a complex integration of biochemical, psychological, and neurological signals and processes. Generally speaking, there are two major players in the erection process: the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS).
The CNS is responsible for conscious control, including thoughts, emotions, memories, and sensations. It is the first component to become aroused when a man thinks of sex or sees something that arouses him.
The PNS controls muscles and launches physical responses to sexual stimulation. It contains the erectile tissue of the penis as well as nerves and vessels. It is the PNS that tells the penis to become erect and fills with blood.
What Causes Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction (ED) occurs when a man is unable to maintain an erection sufficiently long for satisfactory sexual performance. This is usually caused by insufficient blood flow to the penis and can be caused by physical, psychological, and lifestyle factors.
Physical causes of ED include deficiencies in hormones, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension (high blood pressure), kidney failure, multiple sclerosis, and injuries to the nerves in the penis. Some medications used to treat these conditions can lead to ED, as well.
Psychological causes of ED can include anxiety, depression, negative body image, feelings of guilt and/or shame, and performance anxiety. Stress may also be a contributing factor.
Furthermore, a man’s lifestyle and activities can contribute to ED. Smoking, sedentary lifestyles, drinking too much alcohol, and drug abuse can all decrease a man’s ability to achieve and maintain an erection
Treatment Options
Fortunately, there are many effective treatments for ED. Treatment depends on the specific cause, and often includes lifestyle modifications, medications, psychotherapy, and/or medical devices.
Lifestyle modifications may include smoking cessation, regular exercise, weight-loss, healthier eating, limiting alcohol intake, and reduction of stress.
Medications used for ED may include phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors such as sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil (Levitra), and avanafil (Stendra). Other medications may be used depending on the underlying cause.
Psychotherapy can help men with psychological issues that are contributing to their ED, and can include cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychotherapy, and sex therapy.
Finally, some men may benefit from medical devices such as vacuum erection devices or penile prostheses.
Tips for Avoiding ED Issues
There are several lifestyle changes that men can make to reduce their risk of developing ED. These include:
• Quit smoking – Smoking decreases the amount of blood flowing to the penis.
• Exercise regularly – Exercise and physical activity can help maintain optimal blood flow to your penis.
• Eat a healthy diet – Eating healthy foods can help to maintain a healthy weight and can help keep your arteries and veins clear.
• Limit alcoholic beverages – Excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to ED.
• Reduce stress – Stress can interfere with sexual arousal and cause ED.
• Evaluate medications – Check with your doctor to make sure that any medications that you are taking do not contribute to ED.
Support Resources
If you are experiencing ED and/or related issues, you are not alone. There are a number of organizations and support groups
