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What are the Different Types of Erection Problems?

By C. Daw
Updated May 17, 2024
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Even though there are various different types of erection problems, they all fall under the more familiar category of erectile dysfunctions. A man of any age may have problems getting, or maintaining, an erection. There are a few instances where this may be a medical problem associated with the sexual organs, but many times it is an indicator of a separate, underlying problem. Erection problems all have the final result of not being able to have, or maintain, an erection. As with all other medical conditions, though, there are different types and stages of any erectile dysfunction problem.

Impotency is one of the most common types of erection problems that men all over the world have to deal with. Contrary to what the name might imply, this condition is when the penis does not maintain an erection long enough to finish a sexual interaction. This condition is most common among men 40 years of age or older, but it has been known to strike men of all ages. This is one type of erectile dysfunction that can be caused by medical conditions within the body as well as psychological problems.

Another very common erection problem that men will have to face at one time or another is very similar to impotency, but slightly different. When this problem is experienced the penis will become semi-erect, but never reach a full erection. Even though sexual interactions will be able to take place, this type of erectile dysfunction can become worse over time. This problem can be attributed to medical conditions as well as psychological problems, as well as a general lack of arousal.

Two problems associated with men that cause serious problems within relationships are premature or retarded ejaculation. Even though these specific issues are not directly related to having or maintaining an erection, it is still considered to be one of the types of erection problems that men may have. Premature ejaculation is when a man does not have control over his orgasm, and retarded ejaculation is when an orgasm cannot be reached. In both cases, as before, they can be linked to medical or mental problems within the person.

An actual medical condition that can cause erection problems is when damaged nerves are present. The human nervous system controls the reflex of the penis during certain circumstances to get, and maintain, an erection. When these nerves are damaged an erection will not be possible. This is one erectile dysfunction problem that can be strictly blamed upon a medical condition that has to be dealt with by a licensed medical practitioner.

Many different medical and mental conditions can cause different types of erection problems, but they all closely resemble the ones discussed above. Sometimes the erection will be non-existent, while other times the penis simply will not fill fully with blood, causing a semi-erection. No matter what type of erectile dysfunction occurs, a medical problem may be indicated so professional medical help should be sought.

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Discussion Comments

By Buster29 — On Mar 08, 2014

@Ruggercat68, I know what you're talking about, but my urologist assured me it was a normal part of the aging process. A younger man can achieve a full erection and it will remain erect until he achieves orgasm. It may even remain erect for several minutes afterwards. Older men without erectile dysfunction can achieve full erections, but they need more stimulation to maintain them. The equipment still works, but it just needs a little more attention to keep it running.

By Ruggercat68 — On Mar 07, 2014

I don't know what type of problem this would be considered, but there are times when I can achieve a full erection at the beginning of a sexual encounter, but not keep it going long enough to have intercourse. I don't experience premature ejaculation or anything, but I have to spend time regaining interest. I didn't have this problem when I was younger, but after I turned 40 I started noticing things would cool down after a few minutes of inactivity.

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