HELP FOR IMPOTENCE AFTER PROSTATE TREATMENT: WHAT HAPPENS IN NORMAL SEXUAL FUNCTION?
Author: admin
Normal erection in men can be reduced in medical terms to a “vascular event,” but this seems too simple a description for the delicate, complex interplay between blood vessels (veins and arteries) and nerves. The penis itself is a remarkable structure, made up of nerves, smooth muscle tissue, and blood vessels. It has three cylindrical, spongy chambers that are essential to erection; one of these is called the corpus spongiosum, and the other two are called the corpora cavernosa.
A substance called nitric oxide is released by the nerve endings, and the smooth muscle tissue in the penis begins to relax. The spongy chambers (also called sinusoids) within this smooth muscle tissue begin to dilate. Meanwhile, arteries continue to pump blood, as usual, into these spongy chambers of the penis. As the penis elongates, the veins are stretched; they clamp down against the thick tissue that surrounds the corpora cavernosa —shutting themselves off so the blood can’t leave the penis. The chambers become engorged, and this keeps the penis “inflated” during sexual activity. An erection is born.
After ejaculation, nitric oxide stops being released; the smooth muscle tissue contracts and the blood flow to the penis is reduced—the veins ease their viselike grip. Once again, blood is allowed to leave the penis, and the erection goes away.
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Tags: Erectile Dysfunction, Men’s Health