Erekce

Erekce refers to the physiological process in males where the penis becomes engorged with blood, causing it to stiffen and enlarge. This process is essential for sexual intercourse. The erection involves a complex interplay of neurological, vascular, and hormonal signals.

When a male is sexually stimulated, either physically or mentally, nerve signals are sent from the brain and local nerves to the penis. These signals cause the smooth muscles in the blood vessels of the penis to relax. This relaxation allows more blood to flow into the erectile tissues, known as the corpora cavernosa and corpus spongiosum, which are located within the penis. As these tissues fill with blood, the penis becomes erect.

The increased blood pressure within the erectile tissues compresses the veins that normally drain blood away from the penis, further contributing to the engorgement and maintenance of the erection. Hormones, particularly testosterone, play a role in sexual desire and the overall health of the erectile tissues, though they are not directly responsible for initiating a single erection.

An erection typically subsides when the sexual stimulation ceases, or after ejaculation. The nerve signals change, the blood vessels constrict, and blood flows out of the erectile tissues, returning the penis to its flaccid state. Various factors can affect the ability to achieve or maintain an erection, including psychological issues, certain medications, and underlying health conditions.