Erectile Dysfunction: Causes and Concerns for Young Men

Q: Erectile Dysfunction: Causes and Concerns for Young Men

Concerns： Hello, 1. <br>I believe if you have seen my previous responses, you should have some understanding. <br>I think that due to long-term DIY practices, there may be a decrease in penile sensitivity, meaning it could be more difficult to achieve arousal or the rigidity duri

Erectile dysfunction

Hello, Dr.
Hsu: I would like to ask you some questions.
I have a girlfriend whom I have been dating for almost a year.
Due to her conservative views, we only became more intimate this year.
During our first intimate encounter, I noticed that my erection was not firm enough, which I found strange.
Recently, when my girlfriend touched my genitals, I completely failed to achieve an erection.
She even asked me why my "little buddy" was so soft, and I didn't know how to respond.
In the past, I would wake up with an erection every morning, but now I only experience one or two erections every couple of weeks.
I would like to ask you, Dr.
Hsu: (1) Could my inability to achieve an erection be due to excessive masturbation during my youth (once a day)? I still occasionally masturbate, but the firmness is insufficient, and I ejaculate quickly.
(2) After each intimate session with my girlfriend, I experience pain in the left side of my lower abdomen, which sometimes radiates to my testicles.
I had surgery for a hernia two years ago, and this pain feels similar to what I experienced before the surgery.
Could this indicate a recurrence of the hernia? Does a hernia affect sexual function? Thank you for your help!

Fanrao, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/03/29

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Concerns: Hello, 1.
I believe if you have seen my previous responses, you should have some understanding.
I think that due to long-term DIY practices, there may be a decrease in penile sensitivity, meaning it could be more difficult to achieve arousal or the rigidity during erection may be less satisfactory.
This does not indicate a problem with erections.
I suggest trying to increase the duration of foreplay and exploring new methods of stimulation, which should be helpful.
2.
Regarding localized pain after stimulation, it could be due to fibrosis in the area following hernia surgery.
Generally, the recurrence rate of hernias in young individuals is not high, so you can rest assured about that.
3.
Hernias typically do not affect sexual function.
Urology Department Chief, Hsu Wei-Kai, responding on behalf of the Taitung Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare, is concerned about you.

Reply Date: 2005/03/29

More Info

Erectile dysfunction (ED) in young men can be a concerning issue, and it’s important to understand the potential causes and implications. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a combination of psychological and possibly physiological factors that could be contributing to your current situation.

1. Psychological Factors: One of the most common causes of erectile dysfunction in younger men is psychological. Anxiety, stress, and performance pressure can significantly impact sexual function. The fact that you mentioned feeling pressure during intimate moments with your girlfriend may indicate that anxiety is playing a role in your inability to achieve or maintain an erection. This is often referred to as "performance anxiety," and it can create a cycle where the fear of not being able to perform leads to further difficulties in achieving an erection.

2. Physical Factors: While psychological factors are often the primary cause in younger men, physical issues can also contribute. You mentioned a history of hernia surgery, and while hernias themselves do not typically cause erectile dysfunction, complications from surgery or nerve damage could potentially affect sexual function. Additionally, if you are experiencing pain in the lower abdomen and testicular area, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying conditions that may need attention.

3. Masturbation and Sexual Activity: Concerns about excessive masturbation leading to erectile dysfunction are common, but research suggests that moderate masturbation does not typically cause long-term erectile issues. However, if you find that your sexual experiences are primarily focused on masturbation, it may lead to a disconnect when engaging with a partner, as the stimulation and arousal can differ significantly. This could contribute to difficulties in achieving an erection during intimate moments with your girlfriend.

4. Lifestyle Factors: Your lifestyle choices can also impact erectile function. Factors such as diet, exercise, sleep, and substance use (like alcohol or drugs) can all play a role. It’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, as poor habits can lead to decreased libido and erectile difficulties.

5. Hormonal and Medical Evaluation: If the issues persist, it may be worthwhile to undergo a medical evaluation to check for hormonal imbalances or other medical conditions that could be affecting your sexual health. Conditions such as low testosterone levels, diabetes, or cardiovascular issues can contribute to erectile dysfunction.

6. Communication with Your Partner: Open communication with your girlfriend about your feelings and experiences can also help alleviate some of the pressure you may be feeling. Discussing your concerns can foster understanding and support, which may help reduce anxiety during intimate moments.

In conclusion, erectile dysfunction in young men can stem from a variety of factors, including psychological stress, physical health issues, and lifestyle choices. It’s important to address both the mental and physical aspects of your situation. Consulting with a healthcare professional who specializes in sexual health can provide you with tailored advice and treatment options. Remember, you are not alone in this experience, and many young men face similar challenges. Seeking help is a positive step towards regaining confidence and improving your sexual health.

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