Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The corpus cavernosum consists of two cylindrical structures of spongy tissue that run along the length of the penis. These structures fill with blood during sexual arousal, causing an erection.
Related terms
Erection: The process by which the penis becomes firm and enlarged due to blood filling the corpus cavernosum.
Erectile Dysfunction: A condition where there is difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection due to various factors affecting the flow of blood into the corpus cavernosum.
Spongiosum: Another spongy structure in the penis that surrounds the urethra and helps keep it open during ejaculation; it does not contribute as directly to erections as the corpus cavernosum