Erectile Issues: Hormones, Angles, and Concerns - Urology

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Doctor, I asked a question here last time, but you might have been too busy to see it.
Later, I went to the urology department for an examination because I felt that my erectile hardness was insufficient.
The urologist drew blood that day, and today the results came back.
He said my issue is due to an excess of female hormones in my blood, which temporarily reassured me.
However, I still have a few questions to ask you.
1.
Besides the issue of insufficient erectile hardness, I also noticed that when I am erect, if there is no continuous stimulation, the angle of the erection decreases somewhat.
Originally, it was over 90 degrees (measured from the body standing upright, from the thigh to the penis).
After a lack of continuous stimulation, it drops to about 90 degrees.
Is this phenomenon also caused by the excess female hormones? I found online that venous leakage seems to have a similar phenomenon.
Could it be venous leakage?
2.
I don't know if I'm overthinking it or what, but after experiencing the above issues, I also noticed that when my penis is not erect, there is no abnormality, but when erect, I feel like there is a boundary about two-thirds down the shaft of the penis that seems to be indented.
I can't describe it well, but I looked online and wondered if it could be due to trauma or something that caused damage to the tunica albuginea (which is like a penile fracture).
However, there is no pain when erect.
Am I just overthinking this? Because when I watch adult films, I observe that the male actors' penises don't seem to have this feature.
Is it that everyone is just different by nature?

Xiao Jie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/02/28

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology


Xiao Jie: Hello, I think you are overthinking it.
During an erection, a continuous influx of blood is necessary to maintain adequate penile pressure.
After an erection, if there is no ongoing stimulation, it will naturally diminish over time, which is normal.
Additionally, regarding the indentation you described, I cannot make a judgment, but it could simply be a natural contour of the urethra.
If you are concerned, you may want to consult a nearby urologist.
Note: Your erection angle is considered quite normal.

Director of Urology, Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan, Hsu Wei-Kai.

Reply Date: 2007/02/28

More Info


Erectile issues can be a source of significant concern and anxiety for many men, and it’s important to approach these issues with a clear understanding of the underlying factors that may be contributing to them. Based on your description, it seems you have already taken a proactive step by consulting a urologist and getting your hormone levels checked. The finding of elevated female hormones in your blood can indeed play a role in erectile function, as hormonal balance is crucial for sexual health.

1. Erection Angle and Hormonal Influence: The observation that your erection angle decreases when not continuously stimulated could be related to several factors, including hormonal levels, psychological factors, and possibly vascular issues. Elevated estrogen levels can lead to changes in erectile function, including reduced rigidity and possibly affecting the angle of erection. However, it’s also important to consider that the angle of an erection can be influenced by the level of arousal and stimulation. If you are not continuously stimulated, it is natural for the erection to soften, which can lead to a decrease in angle.
Regarding the concern about venous leakage, this condition occurs when the veins in the penis do not constrict properly during an erection, leading to a loss of rigidity. This can manifest as difficulty maintaining an erection or a decrease in angle. If you suspect this might be an issue, it would be wise to discuss it further with your urologist, who may recommend additional tests such as a Doppler ultrasound to assess blood flow and venous function.

2. Physical Changes and Concerns: The description of a "dividing line" or indentation on the shaft of your penis after an erection is concerning, especially if it is a new development. While it is possible that this could be a result of trauma or injury, such as a penile fracture, the absence of pain during erection is a good sign that a serious injury may not have occurred. However, it’s crucial to have any new or unusual physical changes evaluated by a healthcare professional.
The penis can have natural variations in appearance, and what you are observing may simply be a normal anatomical feature. However, if you are experiencing anxiety about this or if it changes further, it would be best to have a thorough examination by a urologist. They can provide reassurance and determine if any treatment is necessary.

3. Psychological Factors: It’s also worth noting that psychological factors can significantly impact erectile function. Anxiety, stress, and self-consciousness about sexual performance can create a cycle of dysfunction. If you find that your concerns about your erectile function are causing you distress, consider speaking with a mental health professional who specializes in sexual health. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be particularly effective in addressing performance anxiety and improving sexual confidence.

4. Lifestyle Factors: In addition to hormonal and psychological factors, lifestyle choices can also affect erectile function. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can improve overall health and sexual function.
In summary, while hormonal imbalances can certainly contribute to erectile issues, it’s essential to consider a holistic approach that includes physical, psychological, and lifestyle factors. Continue to work closely with your healthcare providers to address your concerns, and don’t hesitate to seek further evaluations or treatments as needed. Remember, you are not alone in this, and many men experience similar challenges. Open communication with your healthcare team is key to finding effective solutions.

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