Impotency Anatomy of the Penis, and Pysiology of Erection

Part of understanding how to treat impotency involves learning more about the anatomy of the penis. Part of this also involves understanding the scientific nature of an erection.

If you understand how it is supposed to happen in your body you can then seek out changes. You can see out options of treatment that can help correct impotency problems.

Anatomy of the Penis

The internal structure of the penis consists of two cylinder-shaped vascular chambers. These tissue bodies are often referred to as corpora cavernosa. These run throughout the longest part of the penis, which is known as the shaft.

This opening at the tip of the penis shaft is responsible for emitting ejaculatory sperm as well as urine, and is known as the meatus. At the tip of the shaft is the head, or glans and this is where the meatus is located.

The urethra part of the penis as well. This is a tube for expelling both semen as well as urine. It is the blood that pumps through the corpora cavernosa of the penis that achieves an erection for a man.

Physiology of Erection

The physiological process of erection begins in the brain. It involves a slightly complicated process which includes the penis as well as two main arteries and several veins.

Erectile tissue is enclosed by fibrous elastic sheathes (tunicae) is what helps corpora cavernos, become engorged and expand. This is part of what happed when an increased amount of blood flow and blood pressure enters the penis.

However, certain chemicals are needed to initiate this process. Certain neurotransmitters send messages back and forth between the brain and the penis, and this is how erection is formed.

Sometimes the process of getting an erection is interrupted by one chemical called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5). If too much of this chemical is released then it stops the production of certain substances needed for erection.

That is why sometimes PDE5-inhibiting drugs such as Viagra are used to tread impotency and erectile dysfunction. When PDE5 is stopped, chemicals like cyclic GMP are allowed to work again to produce an erection.

Conclusion

Once you understand the anatomy of the penis and the science of erection you will better understand the process of treating impotency. If you have any further questions concerning any of this you can contact a doctor. He or she can direct you to the best guidance and treatment.