Erection - Know the Facts and How to Deal with Erection Problems

There are many names for an erection, but do you know why some men experience erection problems and what can be done about it? Continue reading to learn more.

Jul 25, 2024by Steinar Helgesen
5 min read
Upward pointing, half-peeled banana symbolizing an erect penis.

Although an erect penis may seem like one of the most basic male functions, the process is actually quite complex! Erection is the very proof of the man's sexual desire and vitality.

But it requires effort and good physical and mental fitness.

What Does it Mean to Get an Erection?

An erection is a "swelling and stiffening of organs by the influx of blood into the body."

It is usually caused by thinking or experiencing something sexual and only lasts for a short period of time. The process happens either by the man thinking about or seeing something sexually arousing, or via a reflex when the penis is stimulated directly by touch.

Getting a hard penis is therefore usually associated with sexual desire.

READ MORE: What Does it Mean to Be Horny: A (Hot) Guide to Sexual Arousal

The actual erection of the penis takes place through an extremely complicated physical process where the blood flow is increased at least 20 times. The penis fills with blood. The blood vessels then close and the penis remains filled with blood and has become stiff and hard.

This is an absolutely necessary biological response that MUST occur in order to have sexual intercourse.

A healthy erection is therefore closely linked to what we call male sexual desire and potency.

When Does Erection Occur?

Erections have been recorded in boys as early as the foetal stage and spontaneous erections can occur in childhood. Especially young boys in puberty, with extra active hormones, can experience penis erections in strange situations.

During the night, the penis also often becomes stiff in connection with our dream phases, and many men also find that they wake up with a hard penis in the morning.

But as a general rule, erections occur in relation to sexual stimulation of the genitals and sexual fantasies and desire.

Erection Problems: What is It?

Men rarely talk about this.

But the vast majority will experience erectile dysfunction, or a reduced ability to achieve or maintain an erection, during their lifetime.

Common Causes of Erection Problems:

  • Perhaps the most common cause of erection problems is simply performance anxiety and nervousness, which fall under the category of psychological erection problems. There are some quite complicated processes in the body that need to work together to achieve an erection, so when thoughts get in the way, the process can quickly grind to a halt. Once you have experienced erectile dysfunction, it's easy to become caught up in a vicious cycle of unhelpful thought patterns. That's when it's a good idea to talk to someone – either your doctor or a counsellor.
  • Another important prerequisite for horniness and sex drive is the amount of testosterone in your body. With age, hormone production in men will decrease and this can affect your sex drive and ultimately your erection.

Therefore, it's a good idea to look after your testosterone, eat healthily, and keep your body in shape. It's easier to feel sexually ready if you also care about your appearance and body.

READ MORE: Low Sex Drive in Men: Here is How to Increase Your Libido

Erection Problem Cure:

Depending on the cause of your erection problems, there may be various treatments available, and you should always consult your GP about potential solutions. Some self-care measures you can consider include:

  • Leading a healthy lifestyle
  • Ensuring you get enough sleep
  • Reducing stress
  • Eating a balanced diet rich in zinc, magnesium, and vitamin B.
A middle-aged couple are lying in bed, looking at each other lovingly and flirtatiously.
There are many ways to maintain a satisfying sex life for most of your life. A dietary supplement with the herb ginseng can help.

Erection Problems and Natural Remedies

Some natural remedies have been known to help people struggling with sex drive, which can be a factor in erection problems. Panax ginseng is an herb that can contribute to healthy sexual relationships. For men who struggle with sex drive, a daily dose of ginseng may help.

Read the article about Panax Ginseng

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