Erections can go away afterejaculationor on their own.
The time this takes depends on the length and thickness of the penis.
Hormones, blood vessels, nerves, and muscles all play a part.
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It will also trigger the release of a chemical called nitric oxide that causes penile arteries to dilate.
Intercourse and repetitive penile stimulation force additional blood into the corpus cavernosa and corpus spongiosum, increasing tumescence.
This is the stage when the penis is at its maximum rigidity and sensitivity.
This allows blood to flow out of the penis, returning it to its normal, flaccid state.
After ejaculation, there will be arefractory periodduring which you cant get another erection even with stimulation.
This can be as short as 15 minutes, or as long as a day or more.
Over time, testosterone will be less prone to fluctuations, resulting in fewer spontaneous erections.
How Hard Is a Normal Erection?
For most people with penises, the stage where the penis is hardest is at the rigid erection stage.
How Long Does An Erection Usually Last?
Erections in a normally functioning penis generally last until ejaculation occurs.
On average, the time from erection to ejaculation is between five and seven minutes.
Erectile Problems
The more common problem related to erections iserectile dysfunction (ED).
This is broadly described as the inability to achieve or sustain an erection suitable for penetrative sex.
There are different types of ED because of different physiological and psychological factors, many of which co-exist.
Although erectile dysfunction is very common, only around 10% of those who experience it seek medical treatment.
Practicing good health is the first step to ensuring and maintaining strong erections.
Severe cases may benefit fromalprostadil, a throw in of ED drug injected into the shaft of the penis.
Non-pharmaceutical options includepenile vacuum pumpswithconstriction rings(“cock rings”).
A less common but potentially beneficial option ispenile implant surgery.
Erections involve a complex interplay of nerves, blood vessels, muscles, and hormones.
They are typically triggered by sexual arousal or manual stimulation of the penis.
The ability to achieve and sustain an erection can change as you get older.
This can lead to erectile dysfunction.
Urology Care Foundation.What is erectile dysfunction?
Kew KL, Heidelbaugh JJ.Erectile dysfunction.Am Fam Physician.2016;94(10):820-7.
