How Does a Man Get an Erection?
An erection is the result of increased blood flow into the penis. Blood flow is usually stimulated by either sexual thoughts or direct contact with the penis.
When a man becomes sexually excited, muscles in the penis relax. This relaxation allows for increased blood flow through the penile arteries. This blood fills two chambers inside the penis called the corpora cavernosa. As the chambers fill with blood, the penis grows rigid. Erection ends when the muscles contract and the accumulated blood can flow out through the penile veins.
ED can occur because of problems at any stage of the erection process. For example, the penile arteries may be too damaged to open properly and allow blood in.
The potential causes of ED are numerous. They include:
- cardiovascular disease
- diabetes
- damage from cancer or surgery
- injuries
- stress
- anxiety
- relationship problems
- drug use
- alcohol use
- smoking
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