How An Erection Works

Screenshot (19834).png


In this video, Jonathan from the Institute of Human Anatomy discusses the mechanism behind human erections.
  • 00:00 Erectile function is crucial for reproduction, and understanding its mechanisms is essential, especially for addressing erectile dysfunction.
  • 01:16 Stimulation for initiating erections can be psychological or tactile, with the most sensitive area being the glans penis, which triggers a reflexive response.
  • 03:19 Erectile function primarily involves reflexive activation of the parasympathetic nervous system, which controls the smooth muscle of the penis.
  • 04:03 Testosterone plays a significant role in erectile function, affecting libido and overall sexual health.
  • 07:53 ⚡ Nitric oxide release in erectile tissues causes vasodilation, increasing blood flow and facilitating erection.
The pudendal nerve plays a significant role in erectile function. It carries autonomic, sensory, and motor fibers to the genital region, regulating erectile and ejaculatory functions. Pudendal neuralgia can lead to sexual dysfunctions, including erectile dysfunction (ED), premature ejaculation, and persistent genital arousal disorder. Studies have shown that pudendal nerve and/or artery entrapment is a reversible cause of multiple sexual dysfunctions, and interventions such as anesthetic injections, neurolysis, and decompression have been reported as potential treatment modalities[1][2]. Additionally, there is evidence that pudendal canal decompression can improve erectile dysfunction caused by pudendal canal syndrome[3]. Therefore, the pudendal nerve is closely associated with erectile function, and its entrapment or dysfunction can lead to various sexual dysfunctions, including ED.

Citations:
[1] Sexual dysfunction due to pudendal neuralgia: a systematic review
[2] Sexual dysfunction due to pudendal neuralgia: a systematic review - Aoun - Translational Andrology and Urology
[3] Pudendal canal decompression in the treatment of erectile dysfunction - PubMed
[4] Successful Treatment of Penile Numbness and Erectile Dysfunction Resulting From Pudendal Nerve Entrapment
[5] Erectile Dysfunction Secondary to Pudendal Nerve Injury Complicating Orthopedic Surgery: Practical Recommandations | Naouar | Journal of Current Surgery

 
Last edited by a moderator:

















 
Great stuff!

It's really a miracle of nature to get an erection! So many variables!

I am 100% sure that my S1-S2 diskectomy screwed up my erections.

Note: Letsgetchecked testosterone tests are not as accurate as LC/MS testosterone tests.
Indeed. Most people take for granted the functions performed in some of our body parts are enabled by nerves smaller than a human hair. Cellular and vascular functions grinding out their jobs to feed them and here we are wondering why they don't work the same after 70 years.
 

hCG Mixing Calculator

HCG Mixing Protocol Calculator

TRT Hormone Predictor Widget

TRT Hormone Predictor

Predict estradiol, DHT, and free testosterone levels based on total testosterone

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer

This tool provides predictions based on statistical models and should NOT replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your TRT protocol.

ℹ️ Input Parameters

Normal range: 300-1000 ng/dL

Predicted Hormone Levels

Enter your total testosterone value to see predictions

Results will appear here after calculation

Understanding Your Hormones

Estradiol (E2)

A form of estrogen produced from testosterone. Important for bone health, mood, and libido. Too high can cause side effects; too low can affect well-being.

DHT

Dihydrotestosterone is a potent androgen derived from testosterone. Affects hair growth, prostate health, and masculinization effects.

Free Testosterone

The biologically active form of testosterone not bound to proteins. Directly available for cellular uptake and biological effects.

Scientific Reference

Lakshman KM, Kaplan B, Travison TG, Basaria S, Knapp PE, Singh AB, LaValley MP, Mazer NA, Bhasin S. The effects of injected testosterone dose and age on the conversion of testosterone to estradiol and dihydrotestosterone in young and older men. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2010 Aug;95(8):3955-64.

DOI: 10.1210/jc.2010-0102 | PMID: 20534765 | PMCID: PMC2913038

Beyond Testosterone Podcast

Online statistics

Members online
1
Guests online
343
Total visitors
344

Latest posts

Back
Top