Male mammals penises: what you need to know about their parts and diseases causing erectile dysfunction

The penis is an organ that male mammals possess and it plays a crucial role in their reproductive system. It consists of three main parts namely: the root, shaft, and glans. The root lies close to the pubic bone while the shaft extends towards the tip or glans which is the bulbous end that forms the urinary opening for males. The urethra passes through the middle of the shaft and opens at the tip to expel semen during ejaculation. Erectile dysfunction can be defined as the inability to achieve or maintain an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse or other types of physical stimulation. This condition affects about half of men above the age of forty years old and may have emotional and psychological effects such as low self-esteem and depression. The penis contains no bones; thus, its erections are purely based on blood flow and muscle action. During arousal, the brain sends signals to the nervous system to relax smooth muscles around the penis allowing increased blood flow into the spongy tissues within the corpus cavernosum. The resulting pressure causes rigidity and hardness of the penis making it suitable for sexual activity. While some studies suggest that stress, anxiety, and fatigue can lead to erectile dysfunction, there are medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and high cholesterol that may also cause this problem. Treatment options include medication, surgery, vacuum devices, implants, and counseling. Medications such as Viagra and Cialis help increase blood flow by blocking enzymes that break down cGMP, a chemical responsible for regulating blood flow. Surgical procedures involve implanting rods made of silicone, alprostadil (a synthetic hormone), or prosthesis into the penis to create rigidity during sex. In conclusion, the absence of bones in the penis makes it possible for it to achieve an erection through blood flow and muscle action. However, several factors can cause erectile dysfunction which may require treatment and management to restore normal functioning.