Incomplete Erections: Causes and When to Seek Help - Urology

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Incomplete erection


This situation has been going on for about two months.
I realized something was wrong, so I sought help.
I am currently a high school junior, and going to the hospital for an examination feels strange...
I initially thought my erectile dysfunction was due to excessive masturbation, but in the past, after resting for a few days, I could achieve a firm erection again.
However, now I can only achieve a certain level of hardness, and my erectile function seems to have decreased by about half.
Additionally, during an erection, it feels like there is insufficient blood flow to the glans.
I have no sexual experience, so it shouldn't be a sexually transmitted infection, right? When I have a girlfriend, I can maintain an erection for a long time...
I don't know why.
My body is very sensitive; even when I'm not thinking about sex, this happens.
Could it be that prolonged erections and tight clothing have caused a strain in the penile muscles, leading to inadequate blood flow? I've heard that some chronic illnesses can affect sexual function.
Is my body sick? By the way, I also have a hair loss issue.
Could that be related? Please help me with these questions...
Thank you very much.
If it is not caused by a sexually transmitted infection, should I see an endocrinologist?

Mr. A, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/06/30

Dr. Xu Wencang reply Urology


Hello: In response to your question, at your age, it is unlikely that you would have erectile dysfunction.
Wearing tight pants should not cause injury to the penile corpora cavernosa.
You may consider following up with a urology clinic for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2005/06/30

More Info


Understanding incomplete erections can be a complex issue, especially for someone your age. It's important to recognize that experiencing changes in erectile function can be influenced by a variety of factors, including psychological, physiological, and lifestyle elements.

Firstly, it's crucial to understand that erectile function is a complex interplay of physical and psychological factors. In your case, you mentioned that you are a high school student and have been experiencing incomplete erections for about two months. This change can be concerning, especially if it is different from your previous experiences.
One common cause of incomplete erections in younger individuals can be psychological stress or anxiety. Factors such as academic pressure, relationship dynamics, or even concerns about sexual performance can contribute to erectile difficulties. It's also worth noting that excessive masturbation, while often cited as a cause, typically does not lead to long-term erectile dysfunction. However, if it leads to guilt or anxiety, that could affect your performance.

Physiologically, there are several factors that can contribute to incomplete erections. You mentioned that you feel the glans (the head of the penis) does not seem to receive enough blood. This could indicate a vascular issue, where blood flow is not adequate for a full erection. Additionally, tight clothing could potentially restrict blood flow, but it is unlikely to be the sole cause of your symptoms.
You also raised concerns about chronic diseases affecting erectile function. Conditions such as diabetes, hormonal imbalances, or cardiovascular issues can indeed impact erectile capability. However, these conditions are less common in younger individuals unless there are underlying health issues.
Regarding your hair loss, while it may seem unrelated, certain hormonal imbalances can affect both hair growth and erectile function. For example, low testosterone levels can lead to both symptoms.
Given your situation, it is advisable to seek help from a healthcare professional. While it may feel uncomfortable to discuss these issues, healthcare providers are trained to handle such matters sensitively and confidentially. A visit to a urologist would be appropriate, as they specialize in male reproductive health and can provide a thorough evaluation. They may conduct tests to check for hormonal levels, blood flow issues, or other underlying conditions.

If you feel more comfortable, you could also consider consulting with a primary care physician first, who can then refer you to a specialist if necessary. It’s important to address these concerns early, as they can often be managed effectively with the right guidance and treatment.

In summary, while your symptoms may not be indicative of a sexually transmitted infection, they warrant a professional evaluation to rule out any underlying health issues. Psychological factors, lifestyle choices, and potential hormonal imbalances could all play a role in your experience. Seeking help is a positive step towards understanding and addressing your concerns. Remember, you are not alone in this, and many young men experience similar issues.

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