Erection Issues: Causes and Solutions for Men - Urology

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Erectile dysfunction


I would like to ask about the situation where I experience an erection hardness of about 8-9 while sitting during masturbation, but when I stand up, it drops to around 5-6 or even becomes flaccid.
Is this due to becoming accustomed to a specific motion during masturbation, or could there be other reasons? My daily routine is normal, and I also work out.
I masturbate approximately 2-3 times a week.
If it is indeed caused by a specific motion, what methods can I use to improve this? I am concerned about potential issues during sexual intercourse in the future.
I have also undergone surgery for varicocele; could this be related?

Mr. A, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/02/27

Dr. Du Mingyi reply Urology


There is no need to worry about the differences between masturbation and sexual intercourse as they are not related to varicose veins.

Reply Date: 2020/02/27

More Info


Erection issues can be a source of concern for many men, and understanding the underlying causes is crucial for addressing them effectively. Based on your description, it seems that you experience a significant difference in erection hardness when transitioning from a seated to a standing position. This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors, including physiological responses, psychological influences, and potential underlying medical conditions.

Firstly, it’s important to recognize that the body’s response to sexual arousal can vary depending on posture. When seated, blood flow to the pelvic region may be more concentrated, allowing for a firmer erection. However, when standing, the gravitational effects can alter blood flow dynamics, potentially leading to a decrease in erection hardness. This is a common experience and does not necessarily indicate a serious problem.

Additionally, the habitual nature of your masturbation technique could play a role. If you consistently use a specific motion or position while masturbating, your body may become conditioned to respond optimally in that context. This conditioning can lead to difficulties achieving the same level of arousal or erection hardness in different situations, such as during intercourse or when standing. To address this, consider varying your techniques and positions during masturbation to help your body adapt to different stimuli and situations.

Another aspect to consider is the psychological component of sexual arousal. Anxiety about performance, especially if you are concerned about future sexual encounters, can create a cycle of stress that impacts your ability to maintain an erection. This performance anxiety can be exacerbated by past experiences or medical history, such as your previous surgery for varicocele (enlargement of veins within the scrotum). While varicocele surgery is primarily aimed at improving fertility and reducing discomfort, it can also have implications for erectile function, particularly if there were complications or if the surgery affected blood flow.

To improve your situation, here are some strategies you might consider:
1. Vary Your Techniques: As mentioned, try different masturbation techniques and positions to help your body become accustomed to various stimuli. This can help reduce the psychological reliance on a specific method.

2. Practice Relaxation Techniques: Engage in relaxation exercises, such as deep breathing or mindfulness meditation, to help alleviate performance anxiety. Reducing stress can improve overall sexual function.

3. Physical Fitness: Continue your regular exercise routine, as physical fitness plays a significant role in sexual health. Cardiovascular health, in particular, is crucial for maintaining good blood flow, which is essential for erections.

4. Consult a Healthcare Professional: If the issue persists or worsens, consider consulting a urologist or a sexual health specialist. They can conduct a thorough evaluation, including assessing hormonal levels, blood flow, and any potential psychological factors.

5. Open Communication: If you are in a relationship, communicate openly with your partner about your concerns. This can help reduce anxiety and create a supportive environment for addressing any sexual difficulties.

In summary, while the changes in erection hardness you experience when transitioning from sitting to standing can be influenced by various factors, they are not uncommon. By exploring different techniques, managing anxiety, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, you can work towards improving your sexual health. If concerns persist, seeking professional guidance is always a wise step.

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