Temporary Erectile Dysfunction: Causes and Solutions - Urology

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Inability to achieve an erection?


I haven't seen my boyfriend for a long time, and when we finally met, everything was normal for the first two days.
On the third day, while I was helping him, he suddenly lost his erection.
He said he felt aroused, but he just couldn't maintain an erection.
After taking a break, he was able to get an erection on his own at first, but later on, he also lost it.
Could it be because I was teasing him for the past two days without letting him finish, which affected him? Or is it because he hasn't had enough sleep, causing his body to not respond normally?

Yu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/01/20

Dr. Lin Wenxu reply Urology


Engaging in sexual activity too frequently in a short period, or experiencing excessive physical fatigue and exhaustion, can certainly have an impact.
It is advisable to rest more and observe the situation.
If erectile dysfunction persists, a consultation with a urologist is recommended.

Reply Date: 2017/01/20

More Info


Understanding temporary erectile dysfunction (ED) can be complex, as it often involves a combination of psychological, physiological, and situational factors. In your case, the sudden onset of erectile difficulties after a couple of days of normal sexual activity could be attributed to several potential causes.

1. Psychological Factors: Performance anxiety is a common issue that can lead to temporary ED. If your boyfriend was feeling pressure to perform after two days of successful sexual encounters, this could have created anxiety that affected his ability to maintain an erection. The mind plays a significant role in sexual arousal, and any stress or anxiety can disrupt the process.

2. Physical Factors: Fatigue and lack of sleep can significantly impact sexual performance. If your boyfriend was not well-rested, his body might not have been able to respond adequately during sexual activity. Physical exhaustion can lead to decreased libido and erectile difficulties. Additionally, factors such as alcohol consumption, smoking, or even certain medications can also contribute to temporary ED.

3. Situational Factors: The context of the sexual encounter can influence performance. If there were distractions, discomfort, or any changes in the environment, these could have affected his ability to maintain an erection. Sometimes, the excitement of being intimate after a long time can lead to heightened expectations, which might inadvertently create pressure.

4. Physiological Responses: The body’s physiological response to sexual arousal involves a complex interplay of hormones, blood flow, and nerve signals. If there was any interruption in this process, such as a sudden change in position or physical discomfort, it could lead to a temporary loss of erection.
5. Refractory Period: After ejaculation, men typically experience a refractory period during which they cannot achieve another erection immediately. If your boyfriend was close to ejaculation during your activities, he might have entered this phase, leading to temporary erectile difficulties.


Solutions and Recommendations:
- Open Communication: It’s essential to talk openly with your boyfriend about what happened. Discussing feelings, concerns, and experiences can help alleviate anxiety and build intimacy.

- Relaxation Techniques: Encourage relaxation before sexual activity. This can include deep breathing exercises, a warm bath, or even engaging in non-sexual physical intimacy to reduce performance pressure.

- Adequate Rest: Ensure that both of you are well-rested before engaging in sexual activities. Fatigue can significantly impact performance.

- Avoiding Pressure: Remind him that it’s okay if things don’t go perfectly. Sexual experiences can vary, and it’s essential to focus on intimacy rather than performance.

- Consulting a Professional: If temporary ED becomes a recurring issue, it might be beneficial for him to consult a healthcare professional. They can help identify any underlying physical or psychological issues that may need to be addressed.

In summary, temporary erectile dysfunction can arise from a variety of factors, including psychological stress, physical fatigue, and situational pressures. Understanding these factors can help both partners navigate the experience with empathy and support. Open communication and a relaxed approach to intimacy can significantly enhance sexual experiences and reduce anxiety surrounding performance.

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