Morning Erections and Ejaculation Issues in Young Men - Urology

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Morning erections, masturbation, and related issues?


Hello doctor, I am 22 years old.
I have not experienced morning erections for about 1 to 2 months recently.
In the past, I would often wake up in the middle of the night or early morning and feel that I had an erection, which was quite firm.
However, recently I wake up without any morning erections.
Considering that I had a military physical examination at the end of November where my ECG showed significant fluctuations, could this be related to a heart issue? Additionally, during masturbation, I do not achieve the firmness of a cucumber and lose erection within 2 to 5 minutes.
Does this qualify as premature ejaculation? What steps should I take to improve my condition? Should I go to the hospital for an examination?

Henry, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/12/14

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology


Hello: It is generally recommended to engage in regular exercise, avoid high-fat foods, and limit beverage consumption to prevent vascular blockage and hormonal deficiencies, which can affect sexual function.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2017/12/14

More Info


Morning erections, often referred to as "nocturnal penile tumescence," are a normal physiological phenomenon in young men. They typically occur during the REM (Rapid Eye Movement) phase of sleep and can happen multiple times throughout the night. For most healthy males, experiencing morning erections is a sign of good erectile function and overall sexual health. However, it is not uncommon for young men to notice fluctuations in the frequency or firmness of these erections due to various factors.

In your case, you mentioned that you have not experienced morning erections for a period of 1 to 2 months, which can understandably cause concern. It is important to note that several factors can influence the occurrence of morning erections, including stress, anxiety, lifestyle changes, sleep quality, and overall health. Given that you have recently experienced significant stress related to a military physical examination, this could be a contributing factor to the changes you are observing. Stress and anxiety can impact hormonal levels and blood flow, which are crucial for achieving and maintaining erections.

Regarding your concern about potential heart issues, while cardiovascular health can indeed affect erectile function, it is essential to consider other factors first. If you have not experienced any other symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue, it may be premature to attribute your changes in erectile function solely to heart problems. However, if you have a family history of heart disease or other risk factors, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.

As for the issue of experiencing reduced firmness during masturbation, this does not necessarily indicate premature ejaculation. Premature ejaculation is typically defined as ejaculation that occurs with minimal sexual stimulation before, on, or shortly after penetration, leading to distress. If you find that you can maintain an erection but struggle with firmness, it may be related to psychological factors, physical health, or even the frequency of masturbation. Frequent masturbation can sometimes lead to temporary changes in erectile function, as the body may need time to recover.

To address your concerns, here are some recommendations:
1. Manage Stress: Engage in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. Reducing stress can significantly improve your overall well-being and may help restore normal erectile function.

2. Healthy Lifestyle: Ensure you are maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting adequate sleep. These factors play a crucial role in sexual health.

3. Limit Stimulants: Reduce or eliminate the intake of alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine, as these can negatively impact erectile function.

4. Consult a Healthcare Professional: If your concerns persist or worsen, it is advisable to seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can perform a comprehensive evaluation, including blood tests to check hormone levels and assess cardiovascular health.

5. Open Communication: If you are in a relationship, discussing your concerns with your partner can alleviate anxiety and improve intimacy.

In conclusion, while changes in morning erections and firmness during masturbation can be concerning, they are often influenced by a variety of factors, including stress and lifestyle. It is essential to take a holistic approach to your health and consult a healthcare professional if you have ongoing concerns. Remember, fluctuations in sexual function are common, and addressing underlying issues can often lead to improvements.

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