Morning Erections, Masturbation, and Sexual Dysfunction

Morning erections, masturbation, lack of sexual desire, and sexual dysfunction?

Hello, doctor.
Since completing my military service, I have been frequently masturbating, averaging once a day, sometimes two to three times.
Additionally, due to life stress, the frequency has increased.
After turning 30, I had a circumcision due to phimosis, and since then, I have experienced keratinization of the glans, which requires more significant stimulation (both sensory and physiological) to achieve an erection.
This year, I noticed a decrease in the frequency of morning erections.
However, due to life stress, I didn't pay much attention to it until recently when I began to focus on health issues.
In early June, I started a weight loss program, quit smoking, significantly reduced the frequency of masturbation, and began exercising for thirty minutes daily, sometimes up to an hour.
Recently, due to some emotional issues, I have been feeling quite down.
On June 7, I masturbated once, and in the following weeks, I noticed that I no longer had morning erections and experienced a complete lack of sexual desire.
One morning, I did wake up with a morning erection, but it was only slightly firm, and since then, I have not had any morning erections or sexual desire.
I would like to ask the doctor if my current condition is due to physiological and psychological factors or if there are other underlying issues.
If I want to recover, how long might it take? Thank you.

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/06/18

Dr. Du Mingyi reply Urology

It is possible to visit a urology clinic for a blood test to check hormone levels; however, it is generally believed that psychological factors play a significant role.
The time required for recovery and adjustment depends on individual emotional states.

Reply Date: 2019/06/18

More Info

Understanding the relationship between morning erections, masturbation, and sexual dysfunction involves a complex interplay of physiological, psychological, and lifestyle factors. Your concerns about changes in your sexual health, particularly regarding morning erections and libido, are valid and warrant a thorough exploration.

Morning Erections and Their Significance
Morning erections, or nocturnal penile tumescence, are a normal physiological response that occurs during REM sleep. They are an indicator of healthy blood flow and nerve function in the penis. Typically, men experience several erections during the night, which can be a sign of good sexual health. A decrease in the frequency or quality of these erections can be influenced by various factors, including stress, anxiety, hormonal changes, and physical health issues.

The Impact of Masturbation
Masturbation is a common and natural behavior that many men engage in. While it is generally considered a healthy sexual outlet, excessive masturbation can lead to temporary changes in sexual function. Frequent masturbation may desensitize the penis, requiring more intense stimulation to achieve an erection. However, this is usually reversible with a reduction in frequency.
In your case, you mentioned that you have been masturbating daily, sometimes multiple times a day, which could contribute to the changes in your sexual response. After undergoing circumcision, you may have experienced changes in sensitivity, which could also affect your sexual function.

Psychological Factors
You noted that you have been experiencing increased stress and emotional challenges, particularly related to relationships. Psychological factors such as anxiety, depression, and stress can significantly impact libido and erectile function. The mind plays a crucial role in sexual arousal, and emotional distress can lead to a decrease in sexual desire and performance.

Lifestyle Changes
You have made commendable efforts to improve your health by losing weight, quitting smoking, and exercising regularly. These lifestyle changes can positively affect your sexual health by improving blood circulation, hormone levels, and overall well-being. However, it is essential to recognize that significant lifestyle changes can also temporarily affect your body as it adjusts.

Recovery and Timeframe
The time it takes to restore normal sexual function can vary widely among individuals. Factors such as the duration of the issue, underlying health conditions, and psychological well-being all play a role. Generally, with consistent lifestyle changes, reduced stress, and possibly addressing any psychological issues through counseling or therapy, many men can see improvements within a few weeks to months.

Recommendations
1. Monitor Your Health: Keep track of your sexual health, including any changes in libido and erectile function. This can help you identify patterns and triggers.

2. Reduce Stress: Engage in stress-reducing activities such as meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises. These can help improve your mental health and, in turn, your sexual health.

3. Limit Masturbation: Consider reducing the frequency of masturbation to allow your body to reset its sexual response.

4. Seek Professional Help: If your concerns persist, consider consulting a healthcare professional or a therapist specializing in sexual health. They can provide tailored advice and support.

5. Stay Active: Continue your exercise routine, as physical activity can enhance mood and improve sexual function.

In conclusion, the changes you are experiencing regarding morning erections and libido are likely due to a combination of physiological and psychological factors. By addressing these areas holistically, you can work towards restoring your sexual health. Remember, it’s essential to be patient with yourself during this process.

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