What is erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to get or keep a firm erection sufficient for sexual intercourse.

In an erection, impulses from the brain and local nerves cause the muscles of the corpora cavernosa, two chambers in the penis, to relax and allow blood to flow in through the arteries and fill the spaces. The engorged chambers expand the penis and the tunica albuginea, a membrane covering the two chambers, helps to sustain the erection. The erection ends when muscles in the penis contract to stop the inflow of blood and open the veins for blood outflow.

What are the types of erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) can be categorised into several types:

1. Psychogenic ED: Caused by psychological factors like performance anxiety, stress or relationship issues, with no physical cause.
   
2. Organic ED: Linked to physical conditions and includes:
• Vascular ED: Poor blood flow due to conditions like atherosclerosis or hypertension.
• Neurogenic ED: Nerve damage from diabetes, Parkinson's or spinal injuries.
• Hormonal ED: Imbalances in testosterone or thyroid disorders.
• Anatomical ED: Structural issues, such as Peyronie's disease.
3. Mixed ED: Combines both psychological and physical causes.
   
4. Iatrogenic ED: Results from pelvic surgery or medications.