Erectile Issues in Adolescents: Causes and Concerns

Erectile dysfunction

Hello doctor, I am a third-year junior high school student.
I had a urinary tract infection around November last year, which eventually got better.
However, I have been worried about getting another urinary tract infection when I masturbate.
During that time, I was doing it almost every day, and eventually, I had trouble getting an erection.
After a while, that improved, but this has happened three times now, and this is the third time.
This time, I can get an erection, but it doesn't seem as firm as before.
When I do get an erection, I feel like I have to exert a lot of effort because I'm afraid it will go soft quickly.
I also have fewer morning erections, and when I do get an erection, it feels like it's only level with the floor.
I don't think I have premature ejaculation because I can last a minute without ejaculating, but I feel like I’m not as enduring as I used to be.
Am I experiencing erectile dysfunction? I'm only in junior high! If I stop thinking about these issues for a while, will it get better? I've been very worried these past few days, so I check adult videos almost every day to see if my erections are firm or how they feel, but it seems the same and not as hard as before.
During the New Year, I had morning erections every day, but once I returned to Taipei, they stopped.
Sometimes it feels like just blood flow, or sometimes there’s no engorgement at all.
Doctor, am I experiencing erectile dysfunction, or could it be prostatitis? Sometimes I feel pain in my lower abdomen, but it only hurts when I press on it.
Could it be that I’m too anxious and tense? Is it possible to have erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation at my age? Also, when I hold the glans while masturbating, it seems to lead to ejaculation very easily; could that be because I'm more sensitive? Is it because I have a long foreskin? It also seems like I need to use my hand to achieve a firmer erection.

Hi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/02/22

Dr. Xu Wencang reply Urology

There should not be any organ issues; it's best to observe and take a break.
Engage in more outdoor activities.

Reply Date: 2021/02/22

More Info

Understanding erectile issues in adolescents can be complex and multifaceted, particularly when considering the physical, psychological, and social factors that can influence sexual health. As a 9th grader, it is important to recognize that experiencing changes in erectile function or concerns about sexual performance is not uncommon, especially during the teenage years when the body is undergoing significant hormonal changes.

Firstly, it is essential to understand that erectile dysfunction (ED) in adolescents is often not the same as in older men. In younger individuals, issues with erections can frequently be attributed to psychological factors such as anxiety, stress, or fear of performance. In your case, the anxiety stemming from your previous urinary tract infections (UTIs) and the subsequent fear of re-infection may be contributing to your current concerns about erectile function. This anxiety can create a cycle where the fear of not being able to achieve or maintain an erection leads to increased stress, which can further inhibit sexual performance.

Additionally, the frequency of masturbation, especially if done excessively, can sometimes lead to temporary changes in erectile function. If you are engaging in this behavior multiple times a day, it may lead to a decrease in sensitivity or changes in how your body responds during sexual arousal. This is often a temporary condition and can improve with time and a reduction in frequency.

Regarding your concerns about morning erections (morning wood), it is important to note that these are typically a sign of healthy erectile function. The fact that you experienced them during the holidays but not afterward could be related to various factors, including stress, changes in routine, or even sleep patterns. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact sexual health, leading to decreased libido and erectile function.

You mentioned experiencing some discomfort in your lower abdomen, which could be related to several factors, including muscle tension from anxiety or even a mild infection. If this discomfort persists, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

As for your concerns about premature ejaculation, it is not uncommon for adolescents to experience varying levels of sensitivity. If you find that you are more sensitive than before, it could be due to a variety of factors, including psychological stress or changes in your sexual habits. If you are worried about your sensitivity or the need for manual stimulation to achieve an erection, these are also issues that can be discussed with a healthcare provider.

In summary, while it is understandable to be concerned about erectile function and sexual performance at your age, it is crucial to approach these issues with a balanced perspective. Many factors can contribute to these experiences, and they are often temporary. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Reduce Anxiety: Try to manage your anxiety through relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or engaging in physical activities that you enjoy.

2. Limit Masturbation: Consider reducing the frequency of masturbation to see if it positively impacts your erectile function.

3. Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep, which can all contribute to better sexual health.

4. Open Communication: If you feel comfortable, talk to a trusted adult or healthcare provider about your concerns. They can provide guidance and reassurance.

5. Seek Professional Help: If your concerns persist or worsen, consider consulting a healthcare professional, such as a urologist or a mental health specialist, who can help address both the physical and psychological aspects of your concerns.

Remember, you are not alone in experiencing these feelings, and many adolescents go through similar challenges. It is essential to prioritize your mental and physical health and seek support when needed.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Erectile Issues in Adolescents: Causes and Concerns

Hello doctor, I am a recent graduate from junior high school, and I would like to ask you if erectile dysfunction can occur during puberty. If so, what symptoms would be present? In the past, when I was in sixth grade, I used to masturbate every day, but since I had urethritis in...

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology
From your description, there doesn't seem to be any specific issues. However, it seems like you are spending too much time on this matter. You are still in your adolescence, and it's important to spend more time on physical activities; otherwise, the transition from ado...

Understanding Erection Issues in Teenagers: What You Need to Know

Hello doctor, I am a third-year junior high school student. Recently, when I masturbate, I start off with a strong erection and a high level of desire, but after a short time, my penis becomes less erect, roughly at the level of the floor, and my desire decreases as well. What co...

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology
In principle, there should not be pathological erectile dysfunction; however, the quality of erections may be poor, possibly due to overall health issues. Since you are still in your adolescence, it is essential to engage in regular exercise to maintain both physical and mental h...

Understanding Erection Issues: Insights for Teenagers and Their Concerns

Hello doctor, I am a third-year junior high school student. I want to ask about something. I learned to masturbate around the sixth grade and did it almost every day until I reached the third year of junior high, when I did it less frequently. Will this affect my erections? (I re...

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology
The length of the foreskin is not related to erectile function. Based on your description, everything seems fine, and you don't have any issues. Of course, what has happened in the past is in the past, and it is not recommended to masturbate every day. Having a focus in life...

Understanding Erectile Dysfunction in Teenagers: Causes and Solutions

Hello Doctor, I am currently a senior in high school. I started watching pornography in the third grade of elementary school and began masturbating in the fifth grade. After entering high school, the frequency increased to at least once a day, and sometimes on weekends, I would d...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: If possible, it's best to seek medical attention. If you cannot see a doctor, complete abstinence is not necessary; you can engage in DIY once every 2-3 days. Try to avoid watching explicit content. Additionally, maintain regular exercise and sleep patterns, and limit...