Erections are a normal part of male sexual function, but they can be a source of mystery and confusion for many men. Despite their frequency, many men don’t fully understand how erections work and what factors can affect them.

Here are 10 things you may not know about erections.

1. Erections Start in Your Brain

While it may seem like erections start and end in your penis, the process actually begins in your brain. Chemical messengers in your brain, including dopamine and nitric oxide, trigger increased blood flow to the penis, which causes it to become erect.

2. Stress Can Affect Erections

Stress can have a negative impact on sexual function, and that includes erections.

When you’re stressed, your body releases cortisol, a hormone that can constrict blood vessels and reduce blood flow to the penis, making it more difficult to achieve or maintain an erection.

3. Alcohol Can Impact Erections

While many men think that alcohol can enhance sexual performance, the reality is that excessive alcohol consumption can actually make it more difficult to achieve an erection.

Alcohol is a depressant, and it can dampen nerve responses and reduce sexual sensitivity, which can make it difficult to get or keep an erection.

4. Smoking Can Affect Erections

Smoking is a major risk factor for erectile dysfunction. Smoking damages blood vessels and can reduce blood flow to the penis, making it more difficult to achieve or maintain an erection.

Quitting smoking can improve erectile function and overall sexual health.

5. Medications Can Affect Erections

Many medications, including antidepressants, antihistamines, and blood pressure medications, can impact erectile function.

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If you’re experiencing erectile dysfunction, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about any medications you’re taking to see if they may be causing the problem.

6. Erections Can be a Sign of Overall Health

Erectile function is a good indicator of overall health. Conditions that impact blood flow, such as heart disease and high blood pressure, can also impact erectile function.

If you’re experiencing erectile dysfunction, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider to rule out any underlying health problems.

7. Age Can Impact Erections

As men age, they may experience changes in sexual function, including reduced erectile function. This is due in part to changes in the circulatory system, as well as hormonal changes. However, age alone does not typically cause erectile dysfunction.

8. Psychological Factors Can Impact Erections

While physical factors certainly play a role in erectile dysfunction, psychological factors can also have an impact. Stress, anxiety, and depression can all contribute to reduced sexual function.

Counseling or therapy may be helpful for men who are experiencing psychological barriers to sexual function.

9. Exercise Can Improve Erections

Exercise can improve erectile function by improving circulation and promoting overall health. In fact, studies have shown that men who are physically active are less likely to experience erectile dysfunction than those who are sedentary.

10. Treatment Options are Available

If you’re experiencing erectile dysfunction, there are a variety of treatment options available. These include medications like Viagra and Cialis, as well as vacuum pumps and other devices.

There are also lifestyle changes that can improve erectile function, such as quitting smoking, reducing stress, and increasing physical activity.