What really causes an erection?

An erection occurs due to hydraulic effects when blood enters, and is being retained in sponge-like bodies, inside the penis. During intercourse, the process is initiated when sexual arousal is transmitted from the brain to nerves in the pelvis. There are various and often multiple underlying causes when a male fails to maintain an erection, some of which are easily treatable medical conditions. The most important organic causes are cardiovascular disease and diabetes, neurological problems (for example, trauma from prostatectomy surgery), hormonal insufficiencies (hypogonadism) and drug side effects.

Psychological impotence is where an erection or penetration fails, due to thoughts or feelings, rather than physical impossibility; this can often be helped. Notably in psychological impotence, there is a strong response to placebo treatment. Erectile dysfunction, tied closely as it is to cultural notions of potency, success and masculinity, can have severe psychological consequences. There is a strong culture of silence and inability to discuss the matter. In reality, it has been estimated that around 1 in 10 men will experience recurring impotence problems at some point in their lives.

Besides treating the underlying causes and psychological consequences, the first line treatment of erectile dysfunction consists of a trial of PDE5 inhibitor drugs (the first of which was sildenafil or Viagra). In some cases, treatment can involve prostaglandin tablets in the urethra, intracavernous injections with a fine needle into the penis that cause swelling, a penile prosthesis, or a Penis Pump.

Penis pumps are typically plastic cylinders that fit comfortably over the penis. The Penis Pump creates a vacuum using suction. Penis pumps do not permanently enlarge the penis. Penis Pumps are tools used to assist in the enjoyment of sex with your partner and they have been found to work successfully with many men.

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