What is an erection?

An erection is a natural process in which the body responds to sexual stimulation. However, it doesn’t always happen automatically. Sometimes it doesn’t work, or doesn’t work as well as it should, and this can cause anxiety. At Fellos, we offer expert, discreet help for men with erectile problems. Our doctors investigate the cause and, where necessary, offer appropriate treatment. In this blog, we explain how an erection works and what factors are involved.

How does an erection occur?

An erection does not start in the body, but in the brain. As soon as you are sexually aroused, the brain sends signals via the nervous system to the blood vessels in the penis. These signals cause the smooth muscles in the erectile tissue to relax. This relaxation allows more blood to flow into the penis, causing the erectile tissue to fill with blood and the penis to become stiff.

That process sounds simple, but it requires perfect coordination between the brain, nerves, hormones and blood vessels. Relaxation is essential to this: the parasympathetic nervous system, which is active when you feel at ease, plays the leading role. Good blood flow is just as important. Research shows that physiological factors such as vascular health and neurological pathways play a central role in achieving and maintaining an erection.

What factors influence an erection?

Many factors can disrupt an erection, and they rarely act alone. One moment everything happens naturally, the next it doesn’t work. Stress is one of the most common factors. When you are stressed, the body is in a state of alert and relaxation is hard to come by. Fatigue works in the same way: an exhausted body has little capacity left for sexual arousal.

Alcohol has a two-sided effect. A glass can lower inhibitions, but too much alcohol reduces blood flow and makes it harder for the body to get or maintain an erection. Anxiety and performance pressure, for example with a new partner, can also cause the system to shut down. Furthermore, lifestyle choices such as smoking, lack of exercise or an unhealthy diet affect blood flow in the blood vessels in the long term. Some medications, such as blood pressure-lowering drugs or antidepressants, have erectile problems as a side effect. These are therefore all factors that can play a role, either temporarily or over the long term.

When do we talk about erectile dysfunction?

Failing to achieve an erection once or twice is normal and happens to almost every man. We only speak of erectile dysfunction if the problem recurs regularly: the persistent or recurring inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual activity. This can affect your self-confidence, your relationship and your quality of life.

Erectile problems are far more common than most men realise. Research shows that around 40% of 40-year-old men experience them to a greater or lesser extent. That percentage rises with age. It is a medically recognised condition with well-established treatment options, not a sign of weakness or failure. Cardiovascular risk factors play a central role in this, meaning that erectile problems in men over 40 can sometimes also be a sign that it is time to have your overall heart health checked.

What can you do yourself if you experience temporary erectile problems?

For temporary problems, the first step is often simple: put less pressure on yourself. Performance anxiety is self-perpetuating, causing you to end up in a negative spiral. By consciously making room for relaxation, you can break that pattern. Regular exercise improves blood flow and has a proven positive effect on sexual function. Getting enough sleep is also important: sleep deprivation lowers testosterone levels and reduces sexual energy.

Drinking less alcohol, giving up smoking and eating more healthily are changes that make a noticeable difference for many men. Being open with your partner also helps: relieving the pressure together is more effective than dealing with it alone. If you suspect that stress or psychological tension is playing a role, a consultation with a sex therapist can be a valuable step alongside or instead of medication.

How does Fellos help with erectile problems?

Fellos offers a fully online programme for men seeking professional help with treating erectile problems. The assessment takes about three minutes and can be completed at home, at any time. A Dutch doctor will then draw up a personalised treatment plan based on your specific situation and medical history.

If medication is appropriate, proven effective treatments such as sildenafil or tadalafil will be prescribed. Both are PDE5 inhibitors that help relax the blood vessels in the penis, thereby improving blood flow during sexual stimulation. Sildenafil works for up to four hours on average, tadalafil for up to 36 hours. They are effective in over 90% of cases. The medication is delivered discreetly to your home in unmarked packaging. Important: PDE5 inhibitors must not be combined with nitrates (such as certain heart medications or ‘poppers’), as this can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. The doctor screens for this as standard during the initial consultation. Guidance and aftercare are standard parts of the treatment via Fellos, so you can always get in touch with any questions. Want to know more about how this works? Read all about it via how it works.

When is it advisable to seek professional help?

That is sooner than most men think. If you notice that the problems recur more than a few times, if they cause you stress, or if they affect your relationship, it makes sense to seek guidance. A doctor can determine whether there is a physical cause, such as reduced blood flow or a hormonal issue, and suggest an appropriate approach. Clinical research shows that erectile problems can be an early sign of cardiovascular disease, which is an extra reason not to let it drag on for too long.

Regain confidence in your body with Fellos

You’re not alone when it comes to erectile problems. Fellos helps you with expert advice, personalised support and, where necessary, effective medication that’s proven to work. Everything is handled safely, discreetly and 100% online. You won’t have to endure long waiting times or awkward conversations. Our Dutch doctors take your symptoms seriously and draw up a treatment plan that suits you. Start your online consultation with Fellos today and discover what works for you.

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