Knowledge base

Erectile dysfunction (impotence) is the permanent inability to obtain or maintain an erection that allows for satisfactory sexual intercourse. Erectile problems happen to men of all agesand can have a wide variety of causes and in many cases co-occur with diseases such as:

• arteriosclerosis,
• diabetes,
• hypertension or coronary artery disease.

Statistically erectile dysfunction occur in approximately 12% of all men. It is estimated that more than 3 million men in Poland are affected by this problem.

ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION (IMPOTENCE) BACKGROUND

Erectile dysfunction can occur due to a number of factors, which are strongly linked to age. The most common cause of erectile dysfunction among teenagers and young men are psychological problemsrelated to complexes, fear of unwanted pregnancy or lack of experience in the sexual sphere.

In men aged 35+ impotence usually occurs due tostress, exhaustion and problems in personal relationships. The following are also becoming increasingly important organic causes due to, for example, early hypertension, coronary artery disease, atherosclerosis or diabetes.

In the majority of patients aged 45+, the organic component of erectile dysfunction is present.

It should be remembered that erectile dysfunction is the end result of a complex process that depends on vascular, hormonal, neurological and psychological factors.

To better understand this process, it is important to know that the penis is made up of three main anatomical structures - the first is the corpus spongiosum, in which the urethra is located, and the other two are the penile corpora cavernosa, which during erection are filled with blood coming from the vulvar arteries.

ERECTILE MECHANISM

The process of achieving an erection begins with sexual arousal and stimulation - the nervous system is stimulated which results in the release of neurotransmitters in the nerve endings of the corpora cavernosa and in the endothelium of the arteries supplying the penis with blood. This is followed by the release of nitric oxide (NO), a chemical compound that relaxes the arteries and allows increased blood flow to the penile corpora cavernosa. At the same time, the outflow of blood from the penis is reduced due to the pressure that is exerted on the venous vessels. These changes in blood circulation inside the penis allow the penis to increase in size. In addition, the penis is stabilised in the erect position by the contraction of the ischiofemoral muscle.

To maintain an erection, further sexual stimulation is essential. It is often at the stage of maintaining an erection that the impotence occurs, consisting of the inability to maintain an erection for the entire length of sexual intercourse.

In recent years erectile dysfunction has become a topic that is being talked about more and more frequently and boldly in medical circles, but it is still a taboo subject among patients. It is worth emphasising that in the 21st century, medicine has made enormous progress in treating this condition. Impotence is a manageable problem - but the basis for its successful treatment is a comprehensive diagnosis and an appropriately selected form of therapy.