Erectile Issues During Masturbation: Causes and Solutions - Urology

Share to:

Experiencing a loss of erection during masturbation?


Hello Dr.
Du,
I have a question that has been troubling me for a long time.
It started around my junior year in college when I began to notice that occasionally during masturbation, I would lose my erection.
I can regain it, but it takes some time.
After finishing one session, I find it easy to lose my erection again during the next attempt.
Over the past year, the frequency of these occurrences has increased, and I feel that my penis has become less sensitive.
The situation fluctuates; sometimes I have no issues with hardness, while other times it suddenly goes soft.
Recently, I have experienced this again.
Regarding my masturbation frequency, I started during middle school, and it was quite frequent from middle school to college, about once a day, sometimes twice.
After entering graduate school, it decreased to about every two days, but in the past week, I have been back to about once a day, with a few days having two sessions.
I previously consulted other urologists, and they suggested taking a break, stating that it wasn't a significant issue.
I tried abstaining for about three weeks, and after that, I had fewer problems for a month, but it eventually returned.
I'm unsure if this is related to my habit of watching adult content while masturbating and the duration (ranging from over half an hour to more than an hour).
I'm quite worried, especially since I'm only 24 years old, have a normal weight, and maintain a relatively healthy lifestyle, exercising more than four times a week (one day of weight training and one day of jogging 5K).
My only bad habit is staying up late (between midnight and 1 AM).

I would like to know how serious this situation is and how I can improve or treat it.
I apologize for the lengthy message, and I appreciate your help, Dr.
Du! Thank you!

worry, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/12/08

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology


Hello: If changing the frequency and timing of masturbation does not lead to improvement, it is advisable to seek medical attention.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2018/12/08

More Info


Erectile issues during masturbation can be a source of concern for many individuals, and it’s important to understand that these issues can stem from a variety of factors, both physical and psychological. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing intermittent erectile difficulties, which can be influenced by several aspects of your lifestyle and mental state.

Firstly, it’s essential to recognize that occasional erectile dysfunction (ED) is common, especially among younger men. Factors such as stress, anxiety, fatigue, and even the frequency of masturbation can play significant roles in erectile performance. In your case, you mentioned that the issue has been fluctuating, which suggests that it may not be solely physical but could also be linked to psychological factors.


Potential Causes
1. Psychological Factors: Anxiety about performance, especially when it comes to sexual activities, can lead to difficulties in maintaining an erection. If you find yourself worrying about your ability to perform, this anxiety can become a self-fulfilling prophecy.

2. Physical Factors: Although you mentioned that you maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, factors such as sleep patterns can significantly impact erectile function. Late nights and insufficient sleep can lead to fatigue, which may affect your libido and erectile strength.

3. Masturbation Habits: The frequency and manner in which you masturbate can also play a role. Watching pornography, especially for extended periods, can desensitize you to sexual stimuli, making it harder to achieve or maintain an erection during actual sexual activity or even during masturbation.

4. Hormonal Levels: Testosterone levels can influence erectile function. If you suspect that hormonal imbalances may be an issue, it might be worth discussing this with a healthcare provider.


Recommendations for Improvement
1. Reduce Anxiety: Consider practicing relaxation techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing exercises. These can help alleviate anxiety and improve your overall mental health.

2. Limit Pornography: If you find that your habits around pornography are affecting your sensitivity or performance, it may be beneficial to reduce your consumption or take breaks from it. This can help reset your sexual response.

3. Regular Sleep Schedule: Aim for a consistent sleep schedule to ensure you are well-rested. Sleep is crucial for overall health and can significantly impact sexual function.

4. Moderate Masturbation Frequency: While masturbation is a normal activity, consider moderating the frequency if you feel it is becoming compulsive or if it is affecting your sexual performance.

5. Consult a Specialist: Since you have already seen a urologist, it might be helpful to consult a mental health professional who specializes in sexual health. They can provide strategies to address any underlying psychological factors contributing to your erectile issues.

6. Physical Health Check: If the problem persists, consider a thorough check-up to rule out any underlying medical conditions that could be affecting your erectile function.


Conclusion
It’s important to remember that experiencing erectile issues, especially at a young age, is not uncommon and can often be resolved with lifestyle adjustments and professional guidance. Open communication with healthcare providers about your concerns is crucial, as they can offer tailored advice and treatment options. By addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of your situation, you can work towards improving your sexual health and overall well-being.

Similar Q&A

Addressing Erectile Issues Caused by Improper Masturbation Techniques

Hello, doctor. In the past, during puberty, I often used incorrect masturbation techniques such as floor pressure masturbation, straight leg masturbation, and intense stimulation masturbation (for instance, gripping the penis too tightly and masturbating too quickly). Now, I find...


Dr. Cai Zhuorong reply Urology
There is no clear medical evidence supporting a relationship between masturbation and erectile dysfunction; however, if you feel there is a connection, you may consider reducing the frequency of masturbation. Additionally, it is recommended to seek medical evaluation for further ...

[Read More] Addressing Erectile Issues Caused by Improper Masturbation Techniques


Understanding Erectile Dysfunction: Causes and Solutions for Men

Hello doctor, I have a question I would like to ask. In the past, I would satisfy my sexual urges through masturbation, but recently, during intimate moments with my girlfriend, I experience a lack of sensation and difficulty achieving ejaculation, and sometimes I even lose my er...


Dr. Fu Shizhang reply Urology
In general, it may indeed be related to long-term masturbation and excessive stimulation, with psychological factors also playing a role. It is recommended to visit a urology clinic to rule out any organic causes.

[Read More] Understanding Erectile Dysfunction: Causes and Solutions for Men


Understanding Erectile Dysfunction: Causes and Solutions for Improved Performance

Experiencing insufficient rigidity during erections, occasional loss of erection upon stopping stimulation, and the ability to ejaculate while not fully erect are concerning symptoms. These issues were not prevalent in the past, as you previously had normal rigidity and duration ...


Dr. Xu Wencang reply Urology
Masturbating too frequently can lead to decreased sensitivity of the nerves and impaired erectile function. It is advisable to stop masturbating for a period of time to see if there is any improvement. Given your age, there should not be any organ issues. If you have a regular pa...

[Read More] Understanding Erectile Dysfunction: Causes and Solutions for Improved Performance


Understanding Erectile Issues: Causes and Solutions for Young Men

Hello Doctor, Since middle school, I have had a habit of masturbation, about once every 1 to 2 days. Last year, when I was about to have intercourse with my girlfriend, I encountered some issues. Firstly, my girlfriend's lubrication was insufficient, making penetration diff...


Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Chris: Hello, at 18 years old, I think psychological factors are likely more significant. Typically, individuals who have engaged in long-term masturbation may experience decreased sensitivity, meaning that a greater level of stimulation is required to achieve an erection. I beli...

[Read More] Understanding Erectile Issues: Causes and Solutions for Young Men


Related FAQ