Diminishing erection – When the penis no longer gets hard (enough)
Erectile dysfunction is a widespread problem that affects many men over the course of their lives. The likelihood of potency problems increases with age.
Erectile dysfunction is not only psychologically and emotionally challenging, but often also affects the relationship with the partner.
If you notice any changes in your erection, see an andrologist or urologist early on!
How does an erection actually develop?
It all starts with sexual arousal, which is triggered by visual, auditory, olfactory or even tactile stimulation. The arousal is transmitted from the brain to the penis via the nervous system. The nerve fibers in the penis trigger a series of chemical and hormonal processes, which lead to relaxation of the muscles and dilation of the blood vessels in the penis.
The dilated blood vessels increase the blood flow into the erectile tissue, the penis becomes larger and the tissue stiffens. At the same time, the nervous system reduces the outflow of blood from the penis in order to maintain the erection.
As soon as sexual stimulation decreases or ends, the body activates the enzyme phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5). This ensures the breakdown of the messenger substances responsible for the dilation of the blood vessels and thus reduces the blood flow in the erectile tissue again. The penis returns to its normal size and becomes flaccid again.
How does erectile dysfunction develop?
Erectile dysfunction does not usually develop overnight, but often develops gradually and can vary in severity.
For example, an erection may be difficult to achieve at first, but when the penis stiffens, the erection is hard enough and lasts long enough for penetration to be possible. Other men find it difficult to achieve and maintain the necessary hardness. In some cases, there is no erection at all: The penis remains flaccid even during sexual stimulation.
What can cause erectile dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction can have various causes, ranging from physical illnesses to psychological factors.
The most common physical causes include
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Cardiovascular diseases (cardiovascular system)
- Disorders of the hormonal balance
- Neurological diseases
- Surgery in the pelvic area
Psychological factor
- Stress and anxiety
- Depression
- Relationship problems
- …
Lifestyle also plays a role. A potency disorder can be directly or indirectly related to obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol abuse, drug use or lack of exercise.
Treatment options for erectile dysfunction
In order for erectile dysfunction to be treated successfully, it is extremely important to determine the underlying problem. A detailed discussion with the treating doctor and comprehensive diagnostics are therefore the basis for every further treatment step.
The options for treating erectile dysfunction include
- Drug therapy: Oral (with PDE-5 inhibitors such as Viagra or Cialis) or via gel or injections (prostaglandin E1)
- Hormone replacement therapy
- Physical erection aids: Penis pumps or penis rings support the blood flow
- Extracorporeal shock waves can stimulate the formation of new blood vessels
- In severe cases, erectile tissue implants may be the best solution for regaining erectile function.
If you notice any changes in your erection, see an andrologist or urologist as soon as possible!
What can “men” do themselves for a hard erection?
There are various measures that “men” can take themselves to prevent erectile dysfunction or improve erection quality.
For example, regular exercise can help to improve blood circulation and increase erectile function. Exercises that train the pelvic floor are particularly helpful.
A balanced diet with plenty of fruit, vegetables and wholegrain products can help to prevent obesity and secondary diseases such as diabetes or high blood pressure. As erectile dysfunction is often directly related to these diseases, a healthy diet also helps to prevent them.
A generally healthy lifestyle with exercise and the avoidance of (excessive) alcohol and drug consumption also helps.
