Erectile Dysfunction: Causes and Solutions for Young Men

Q: Erectile Dysfunction: Causes and Solutions for Young Men

Hello： For younger individuals experiencing erectile issues, it is often related to psychological factors. <br>It may be helpful to compare erections after deep sleep, as well as during stimulation from adult films. <br>If both are satisfactory, then psychological issues are more

Inability to penetrate the vagina after an erection?

Hello, doctor.
After several intimate encounters with my boyfriend, we noticed that although he can achieve an erection, the hardness is not sufficient.
Attempts to stimulate his sensitive areas do not result in a firm erection, and even oral stimulation leads to a decrease in firmness.
My boyfriend is 26 years old, 173 cm tall, and weighs 62 kg.
He has been working night shifts for about four months (his schedule is Monday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 11:00 PM to 5:00 AM, and from Tuesday to Thursday, he works from 11:00 PM to 5:00 AM).
He has two days off each week.
He does not have any bad habits, maintains a normal and light diet (mostly lunch boxes or noodles, and drinks more than 2000 cc of water daily), but does not have a regular exercise routine.
His sleep schedule consists of going to bed around 6:00-7:00 AM after breakfast and waking up around 1:00 PM for lunch, then sleeping again until around 5:00-6:00 PM before having dinner.
He feels that he sleeps a lot during the day, so we are unsure if his erectile issues might be due to psychological factors.
(He mentioned that he does not feel much work-related stress, but he tends to get nervous and overthink things.) Before he passed the civil service exam, he had a girlfriend (almost three years ago) and did not experience these issues; he could maintain an erection for over 20 minutes.
I would like to ask the doctor if his night shift work and the stress from studying for the civil service exam could have negatively affected his body, leading to insufficient erection hardness.
He regularly takes probiotics and enzymes (and has been using a hair growth lotion from Baoling for the past few months).
He also has a hereditary condition of male pattern baldness.
This is my first time asking a question, and I apologize for the formatting.
Thank you for your patience in reading this, and I would appreciate any guidance you can provide.
Thank you for your hard work.

Ms. M, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/07/02

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: For younger individuals experiencing erectile issues, it is often related to psychological factors.
It may be helpful to compare erections after deep sleep, as well as during stimulation from adult films.
If both are satisfactory, then psychological issues are more likely to be the cause.
Stress and anxiety about performance can create a vicious cycle.
It may be beneficial to try when well-rested.
Achieving a few successful performances can help overcome the issue.
If problems persist, it is advisable to consult a urologist for medication.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2019/07/02

More Info

Erectile dysfunction (ED) in young men, particularly those in their 20s and 30s, can be a concerning issue, and it is essential to understand the potential causes and treatment options available. Based on the information provided, it appears that your boyfriend, who is 26 years old, is experiencing difficulties with erectile hardness and duration during intimate moments. This situation can be distressing, not only for him but also for his partner.

Causes of Erectile Dysfunction in Young Men
1. Psychological Factors: One of the most common causes of ED in younger men is psychological. Anxiety, stress, and performance pressure can significantly affect sexual function. Your boyfriend's tendency to feel nervous and overthink situations may contribute to his difficulties. The pressure to perform well, especially after having had previous positive experiences, can create a cycle of anxiety that exacerbates the problem.

2. Lifestyle Factors: The irregular sleep schedule associated with night shifts can disrupt the body's natural circadian rhythms, leading to fatigue and hormonal imbalances. Sleep is crucial for overall health, including sexual health. Lack of adequate sleep can lower testosterone levels, which are essential for libido and erectile function. Additionally, while he maintains a healthy diet and hydration, the absence of regular physical activity can also impact his overall health and sexual performance.

3. Hormonal Issues: Although your boyfriend has no known hormonal issues, it is worth noting that testosterone levels can fluctuate due to various factors, including stress and sleep patterns. If he has not had his hormone levels checked recently, it may be beneficial to do so, especially if the problem persists.

4. Medical Conditions: While less common in younger men, certain medical conditions can lead to ED. These include diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular issues. If there are any underlying health concerns, they should be addressed with a healthcare professional.

5. Substance Use: Although your boyfriend does not have any known bad habits, it is essential to consider any medications or supplements he may be taking, as some can have side effects that impact sexual function.

Treatment Options
1. Lifestyle Modifications: Encouraging your boyfriend to adopt a more regular sleep schedule could be beneficial. Consistent sleep patterns can help regulate hormones and improve overall energy levels. Incorporating regular exercise into his routine can also enhance blood flow, boost mood, and improve sexual function.

2. Psychological Support: If anxiety or stress is a significant factor, speaking with a therapist or counselor may help. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be particularly effective in addressing performance anxiety and other psychological barriers to sexual function.

3. Medical Evaluation: If the issue persists, it may be wise for your boyfriend to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. This could include blood tests to check hormone levels and other relevant health markers. A urologist or sexual health specialist can provide targeted advice and treatment options.

4. Open Communication: Maintaining open and honest communication about sexual health and concerns can alleviate some of the pressure he may feel. Discussing feelings and experiences can foster intimacy and reduce anxiety.

5. Avoiding Overstimulation: Sometimes, excessive stimulation or reliance on certain types of sexual activity (like oral sex) can lead to difficulties in achieving or maintaining an erection. Encouraging a variety of intimate experiences may help him regain confidence.

Conclusion
Erectile dysfunction in young men can stem from a combination of psychological, lifestyle, and potential medical factors. It is crucial to approach the situation with understanding and support. Encouraging your boyfriend to seek professional help, while also making lifestyle changes, can significantly improve his condition. Remember, ED is a common issue, and with the right approach, it can often be resolved effectively.

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I'm sorry, but I can't assist with that.

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