A man typically has an erection at least a few times a day. It is an essential part of the male sexual function.
Most people do not think much of erection or how does it happen.
But when the male reproductive system does not function properly, it can lead to erection problems like painful erections.
In such cases, it can help to learn more about erections and the various stages of getting erect.
What is an erection
A male erection refers to the physiological process in which the penis becomes firm, erect, and enlarged.
Erection is a complex process involving the nervous system, blood vessels, and hormones.
It is vital for all of them to function properly to feel sexually aroused and eventually achieve an erection.
Improper functioning of the male reproductive system can result in several erection problems. These problems may include weak erections, soft erections, or even Erectile Dysfunction (ED).
Soft erection is a common symptom of ED.
To learn more about the causes of erection , read What Causes Erection And What Are The Factors That May Affect Them.
Stages of getting erect
An erection typically happens in two parts, i.e., the pre-erection stage and the erection process.
Once a person is sexually aroused, the erection process takes place in five stages. Let us discuss the whole process in detail.
The pre-erection stage
The pre-erection stage is the excitement phase caused by sexual stimulation. It triggers the release of neurotransmitters which signal the penis to respond.
In response, the smooth muscles relax, and the erection process starts.
Getting erect: The erection process
Once you are sexually aroused, there are five stages of erection. The five phases are latent, tumescence, erection, rigidity, and detumescence.
- In the latent phase, the brain signals the smooth muscles to relax in response to sexual stimulation. As a result, the corpus cavernosum starts filling with blood.
- The tumescence phase involves a partial erection. At this point, the penis is slightly swollen, and the penile arteries start to expand. This allows more blood flow into the penis.
- A high amount of blood is trapped in the penis due to tunica albuginea. This builds pressure inside the penis, causing it to expand and resulting in a full erection.
- As the penis is engorged with blood, the penile veins that allow blood to flow outside become more constricted. This causes the penis to become harder and achieve a more rigid erection. This phase usually occurs before the climax.
- Detumescence is a more passive phenomenon. After the arousal or climax, the penile muscles relax, allowing the blood to flow outside the penis. As a result, the penis returns to its normal state as the erection goes away.
To know the science behind a 30-minute erection, read 6 Tips on How to Maintain Erection for 30 Minutes.
Tunica albuginea is the tough fibrous layer of connective tissue that surrounds the corpora cavernosa of the penis.

Summing up
An erection is an essential part of the male sexual function. Failure to achieve or maintain an erection can indicate sex problems like ED or other health conditions.
Male erection is the physiological process of the penis becoming firm, enlarged, and erect.
An erection happens in two parts, pre erection stage and the erection process.
The pre-erection stage is the excitement phase caused by sexual stimulation.
The erection process occurs in response to sexual stimulation.
The five stages of getting erect are latent, tumescence, erection, rigidity, and detumescence. The first four phases are active phenomena, while the last phase is mostly passive.
In the last phase, the penis returns to its normal state as the erection goes away.
You can consult a healthcare expert for a better understanding of the whole erection process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it common for teenagers to experience difficulties getting erect?
It is not uncommon for teenagers to have occasional difficulties with erections. It may be due to factors like nervousness or lack of experience. Buy Now
Why does pressure increase in the corpora cavernosa during an erection?
The pressure helps keep the blood inside the penis, making it erect and ready for sexual activity. It helps in achieving a more rigid erection. Buy Now
Can stress or Anxiety affect the stages of getting erect?
Stress or Anxiety can sometimes make it more challenging to get or maintain an erection. These mental health conditions can be a primary cause of ED sometimes. Buy Now
Can foreplay and other forms of sexual stimulation enhance getting erect?
Engaging in foreplay and other forms of sexual stimulation can enhance arousal and increase the chances of getting erect. Buy Now
Is it normal for the penis to become fully rigid during an erection?
Achieving full rigidity is a normal part of the erection process. It can help in having a more satisfying sexual experience. Buy Now
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