Slow Erection Issues: When to Seek Urology Help for Improvement - Urology

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Erection occurs slowly?


Last year, I still experienced morning erections, but around November and December, I gradually noticed that I no longer had them.
However, since I didn't always remember upon waking up, I didn't pay much attention to it because I could still achieve normal erections.
Recently, there was a day when I suddenly couldn't get an erection, which scared me.
I was very anxious that day and read online that it could be psychological, so I thought I would wait a day.
The next day, I was able to get an erection, but it took a long time.
In the past, I would get aroused quickly while watching videos or reading, but now it takes a while to respond, and I also no longer feel the morning erections.
I used to masturbate a lot, almost every day.
What should I do to improve this situation, or should I see a urologist?

Li Zimin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/04/02

Dr. Chen Jiansheng reply Urology


Regular schedule, exercise, and rest for two months.

Reply Date: 2022/04/02

More Info


Experiencing changes in erectile function can be concerning, and it’s important to address these issues promptly. Based on your description, it seems you have noticed a gradual decline in your ability to achieve and maintain an erection, particularly the absence of morning erections and a slower response to sexual stimuli. These changes can be influenced by a variety of factors, including psychological, hormonal, and physical health issues.

Firstly, it’s essential to understand that erectile dysfunction (ED) can be multifactorial. Psychological factors such as anxiety, stress, or depression can significantly impact sexual performance. The fact that you experienced a sudden inability to achieve an erection, followed by a return to function but with a slower response, suggests that psychological factors may be at play. However, it’s also crucial to consider physical causes, especially if you have a history of frequent masturbation, which can sometimes lead to temporary changes in sexual response.

Here are some steps you can take to address your concerns:
1. Consult a Urologist: Given the changes you’ve experienced, it would be wise to seek an evaluation from a urologist. They can perform a thorough assessment, including a physical examination and possibly blood tests to check hormone levels, such as testosterone, which can affect erectile function. They may also evaluate for other underlying conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular issues, which can contribute to ED.

2. Lifestyle Modifications: Consider making lifestyle changes that can improve your overall health and potentially enhance erectile function. This includes:
- Regular Exercise: Engaging in physical activity can improve blood circulation and reduce stress, both of which are beneficial for erectile function.

- Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can support vascular health.

- Limit Alcohol and Quit Smoking: Both alcohol and tobacco can negatively impact erectile function, so reducing or eliminating these substances may help.

3. Psychological Support: If you suspect that anxiety or stress is contributing to your erectile difficulties, consider speaking with a mental health professional. Therapy can help address any underlying psychological issues and improve your sexual health.

4. Avoid Excessive Internet Use: If you find that your sexual arousal is heavily reliant on pornography or other stimuli, it may be beneficial to take a break from these sources. Overexposure to certain types of sexual content can sometimes desensitize individuals and affect their ability to respond to real-life sexual situations.

5. Medication: If lifestyle changes and psychological support do not yield improvements, your urologist may discuss the option of medications such as phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (e.g., Viagra, Cialis) that can help facilitate erections.

6. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including any changes in your ability to achieve erections, the quality of your erections, and any associated feelings of anxiety or stress. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider.

In summary, while experiencing slow erections and the absence of morning erections can be distressing, it’s important to approach the situation holistically. Seeking help from a urologist is a crucial step in understanding the underlying causes and finding appropriate treatment options. Remember, erectile dysfunction is a common issue, and addressing it can lead to significant improvements in your quality of life and sexual health.

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