Initial Filling
With psychological or sexual stimulation, neurotransmitters cause penile smooth muscles to relax, increasing blood flow to the body of the penis.
Partial Erection
Penile arteries expand to
accommodate the increased
blood flow needed to
elongate and expand the
penis.
Full Erection
The increased volume of blood within
the penis is prevented from draining,
thus expanding the penis to a full
erection.
Rigid Erection
Maximum rigidity is attained. The body and the tip of the penis enlarge until the penile veins are forcefully compressed. This increases engorgement and maintains maximum penile rigidity, which will later be followed by ejaculation.
Partial Erection
Muscle contractions result in increased blood outflow from the penis, decreasing its length and girth and then returning to its flaccid state.