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Male Genitourinary System  

Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Erectile dysfunction is the inability to attain or maintain an erection of the penis that is firm enough for penetration during sexual intercourse. The condition is also be called impotence. To initiate and maintain an erection, the penis must fill with blood. Nerve signals stimulate this blood fill. The nerves prompt certain blood vessels in the penis to expand so blood can fill it. Meanwhile, other blood vessels constrict, trapping blood inside.

The following factors can cause erectile dysfunction:

Venous Leak: Veins are compressed when blood fills the penis.