As men age, changes in their bodies can affect their sexual health, including their ability to achieve and maintain an erection. While erectile dysfunction (ED) is common among men of all ages, the chances of experiencing ED increases with age.

In this article, we will discuss what to expect in terms of aging and erection.

Understanding Erections

Before getting into the specifics of how aging affects erections, it’s important to understand how erections work. A man’s penis contains two cylindrical chambers, called the corpora cavernosa, that run the length of the penis.

These chambers are filled with spongy tissue and are surrounded by a membrane called the tunica albuginea.

When a man becomes sexually aroused, signals from the brain cause the muscles in the penis to relax, allowing blood to flow into the corpora cavernosa. As the chambers fill up with blood, the penis becomes firm and erect.

During sexual arousal, the veins that normally carry blood away from the penis are compressed, keeping blood trapped in the erectile tissue.

This helps to maintain the erection until orgasm, at which point the veins open up and blood flows out of the penis, causing the erection to subside.

How Aging Affects Erections

While the mechanics of erections don’t change as men get older, the factors that contribute to erectile dysfunction (ED) can become more prevalent with age. Here are some of the ways that aging can affect erections:.

Decreased Testosterone Levels

Testosterone is the hormone responsible for male sexual development, and it plays a key role in maintaining healthy sexual function throughout a man’s life.

As men age, their testosterone levels naturally decline, which can make it more difficult to achieve and maintain erections.

Changes in Blood Flow

As men get older, the blood vessels that supply the penis with blood can become less elastic and more constricted, which can reduce blood flow to the erectile tissue. This can make it more difficult to achieve and maintain an erection.

Other Health Conditions

As men age, they may develop other health conditions that can contribute to erectile dysfunction, such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and obesity.

These conditions can affect blood flow and nerve function, making it harder to achieve and maintain an erection.

Medications

Many medications that are commonly prescribed to older adults can have side effects that interfere with sexual function, including the ability to achieve and maintain an erection.

These medications include antidepressants, antihistamines, and blood pressure medications, among others.

Poor Lifestyle Habits

As men age, they may become more sedentary, eat a less healthy diet, and engage in other poor lifestyle behaviors that can contribute to erectile dysfunction. Smoking, excessive drinking, and drug use can all have negative effects on sexual function.

What You Can Do

While aging can make it more difficult to achieve and maintain erections, there are steps that men can take to improve their sexual health. Here are some of the things that you can do to support healthy erections as you age:.

Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise can help improve blood flow and overall cardiovascular health, which can support healthy erections. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

Eat a Healthy Diet

Eating a diet that’s low in saturated fat, processed foods, and added sugars and high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help support good blood flow and overall health.

Manage Existing Health Conditions

If you have existing health conditions that can contribute to erectile dysfunction, such as diabetes or heart disease, work with your healthcare provider to manage these conditions effectively.

Consider Erectile Dysfunction Treatments

If you’re having trouble achieving and maintaining erections, there are several treatments that can help, including prescription medications, vacuum devices, and penile injections. Talk to your healthcare provider about your options.

Address Emotional Issues

Emotional issues, such as stress, anxiety, and depression, can contribute to erectile dysfunction. Consider speaking with a mental health professional to address any underlying emotional concerns.

Conclusion

As men age, it’s normal to experience changes in sexual function, including erectile dysfunction.

However, by taking steps to support good overall health and addressing any underlying health concerns, men can maintain healthy sexual function as they age.