Erection Problems and Possible Treatments
Problems of achieving a satisfactory erection are fairly common. If the problem does not originate from lack of lust and is great enough to make normal intercourse impossible, the condition is called erectile dysfunction (impotence). Erection problems are caused by combined physical and psychological factors. THE ERECTION MECHANISM The penis has three bodies containing a dense network of blood vessels along all its length. During an erection, blood is filled into the vessels of these bodies. The bodies then engorge, make the penis hard, and raise it up. The filling of these bodies occurs when the vessels leading blood to the penis relax and vessels draining the penis constrict their volume. Before and during erection nerves lead impulses to the genitals. The nerve ends in this area then releases the substance nitrogen oxide. Nitrogen oxide will diffuse through the genital area and the penis and stimulate the reaction of the blood vessels in the penis. PHYSICAL CAUSES OF ERECTION PROBLE...