Erectile Issues: Causes and Solutions for Men

Erectile dysfunction/glans penis

I would like to ask if excessive masturbation in the past could be the reason for my recent unusual erection sensations.
I find that I don't achieve sufficient hardness when viewing stimulating content and need to use my hand to achieve an erection.
Additionally, I have noticed decreased sensitivity at the glans and base of the penis, requiring significant pressure to feel anything.
I previously went to the hospital for a blood test, and the doctor indicated that my testosterone levels were normal, suggesting this is a normal condition.
Could this be due to a lack of clinical studies or organic damage? I would appreciate your evaluation.
Thank you.

Nìmíng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/05/24

Dr. Fu Shizhang reply Urology

The likelihood of organic causes is low; it may be advisable to consider reducing the frequency of masturbation.

Reply Date: 2019/05/24

More Info

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common issue that many men face at some point in their lives. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including psychological, hormonal, and physical conditions. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing changes in erectile function, including reduced sensitivity and difficulty achieving an erection without manual stimulation. Let's explore the potential causes and solutions for these issues.

Potential Causes of Erectile Issues
1. Psychological Factors: Anxiety, stress, and depression can significantly impact sexual performance. If you have been feeling anxious about your sexual health or performance, this could lead to a cycle of anxiety that exacerbates the problem. Performance anxiety is particularly common and can create a mental block that makes it difficult to achieve or maintain an erection.

2. Hormonal Factors: Although you mentioned that your testosterone levels are normal, it's important to consider that other hormonal imbalances can also affect erectile function. For instance, elevated levels of prolactin or issues with thyroid hormones can contribute to erectile difficulties.

3. Physical Factors: Conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease can affect blood flow and nerve function, leading to erectile dysfunction. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and lack of physical activity can also contribute to these issues.

4. Neurological Factors: If there is any nerve damage or issues with the nervous system, this can affect sensitivity and erectile function. Conditions like multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injuries can lead to similar symptoms.

5. Overstimulation and Sensitization: Frequent masturbation or reliance on specific types of sexual stimulation can lead to desensitization. If you have conditioned your body to respond only to certain stimuli, it may become more challenging to achieve an erection in different contexts.

Solutions and Recommendations
1. Consult a Specialist: Since you have already seen a doctor and had your hormone levels checked, consider consulting a urologist or a sexual health specialist. They can provide a more comprehensive evaluation and may suggest additional tests, such as penile Doppler ultrasound, to assess blood flow.

2. Psychological Counseling: If psychological factors are contributing to your erectile issues, speaking with a therapist or counselor who specializes in sexual health can be beneficial. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help address anxiety and improve sexual confidence.

3. Lifestyle Changes: Adopting a healthier lifestyle can have a positive impact on erectile function. This includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol intake. These changes can improve overall health and blood circulation, which is crucial for erectile function.

4. Medication: If appropriate, your doctor may prescribe medications such as phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (e.g., Viagra, Cialis) to help improve erectile function. These medications work by increasing blood flow to the penis and can be effective for many men.

5. Sensate Focus Exercises: These exercises involve focusing on physical sensations without the pressure of performance. This can help reduce anxiety and improve sexual responsiveness. Engaging in intimate activities without the goal of intercourse can help re-establish sensitivity and enjoyment.

6. Avoid Overstimulation: If you find that certain types of stimulation are necessary for arousal, consider moderating your exposure to those stimuli. This can help your body regain sensitivity and responsiveness to a wider range of sexual experiences.

Conclusion
Erectile dysfunction can be a complex issue with multiple contributing factors. It’s essential to approach this problem holistically, considering both physical and psychological aspects. By consulting with healthcare professionals, making lifestyle changes, and possibly engaging in therapy, you can work towards improving your erectile function and overall sexual health. Remember, you are not alone in this, and many men experience similar challenges. Seeking help is a positive step towards finding a solution.

Similar Q&A

Understanding and Managing Sexual Desire Issues in Urology

It is common to notice that during daily activities, there may be instances where there is a lack of erection before ejaculation. This can be attributed to various factors, including psychological stress, fatigue, or hormonal imbalances. To address issues related to sexual desire...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: Your situation is likely not ejaculation, but rather the release of some prostatic fluid. If you do not have a regular partner, then DIY solutions are your only option. Wishing you good health.

Understanding Erectile Dysfunction: Causes and Solutions for Men

Hello Doctor: Thank you for your response. I do not have any bad habits such as smoking, drinking, or betel nut chewing. I do not engage in exercise, but I remember that during periods of inactivity in the past, my condition was still good. I would like to provide additional info...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Xiao Hua: Hello, it should not have any impact. Of course, psychological factors could also be a possibility. For now, let's just observe for a while. If there is no improvement, it is still recommended to seek further detailed treatment (Note: usually only medical centers h...

Understanding and Treating Incomplete Erections: A Guide for Better Sexual Health

It sounds like you are experiencing erectile dysfunction and difficulties with sexual performance. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including psychological issues, stress, anxiety, or physical health conditions. Here are some steps you can consider for treatment: 1. *...

Dr. Lin Hexing reply Urology
Hello, based on your description, it seems you are experiencing erectile dysfunction. Since you are not yet married and are still in school without a stable income, it may be too early to seek out pleasurable sexual experiences at your age. Focusing on improving your physical fit...

Understanding Erectile Dysfunction: Causes and Solutions for Young Men

Hello, doctor. Although I am only 26 years old, I have been experiencing erectile dysfunction for many years. During middle school, my erections were consistently strong and normal. However, starting from a certain day in high school, I noticed that my penis appeared significantl...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Mr. Li: Hello, it is recommended to undergo a thorough examination, such as a penile erection test and a penile blood flow test. If there are any unclear aspects, feel free to ask again so we can further discuss and research. Online responses can only serve as a reference; if nec...