Morning Erections: What’s Normal for Teenagers? - Urology

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How come I wake up without an erection?


It's normal for adolescents to experience morning erections, also known as nocturnal penile tumescence.
These occurrences can vary from person to person, and it's not uncommon for them to happen inconsistently.
If you're experiencing morning erections sometimes but not all the time, it generally isn't a cause for concern.
Hormonal changes during puberty can affect the frequency of these erections.
However, if you have any specific concerns about your sexual health or development, it might be a good idea to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/04/20

Dr. Lin Hexing reply Urology


Hello, sir: Thank you for your question.
I would like to respond to your inquiry and provide the following advice: The normal frequency of nocturnal erections in men is 4-6 times per night, mostly occurring during the rapid eye movement (REM) sleep phase, which is the deeper stage of sleep.
Therefore, it is not necessarily the case that you experience an erection upon waking.
Lastly, I wish you peace and happiness!

Reply Date: 2009/04/20

More Info


Morning erections, often referred to as "nocturnal penile tumescence," are a common physiological phenomenon in males, particularly during puberty and adolescence. It is entirely normal for teenagers to experience these erections, which typically occur during the rapid eye movement (REM) stage of sleep. During this phase, the body goes through various physiological changes, including increased blood flow to the penis, leading to erections.
For teenagers, the frequency of morning erections can vary significantly. While some may experience them almost every morning, others may notice them only occasionally. According to medical literature, it is normal for males to have 4 to 6 erections during the night, but this does not necessarily mean they will wake up with one every morning. Factors such as sleep quality, stress levels, hormonal fluctuations, and overall health can influence the occurrence of morning erections.

If you find that you are not experiencing morning erections as frequently as you might expect, it is generally not a cause for concern. Variability is common, and many factors can contribute to this. For instance, if you are experiencing stress from school or personal life, it could affect your sleep patterns and, consequently, your body's natural functions. Additionally, hormonal changes during puberty can lead to fluctuations in sexual function, including the frequency of erections.

It is also important to note that the absence of morning erections does not necessarily indicate a problem with sexual function. As long as you are able to achieve erections at other times and your sexual function feels normal, occasional absence of morning erections is typically not a sign of any underlying issue.
If you have concerns about your sexual health or if you notice significant changes in your ability to achieve erections, it may be beneficial to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide personalized advice and reassurance based on your individual health status.

In summary, experiencing morning erections is a normal part of male physiology, especially during puberty. The frequency can vary widely among individuals, and occasional absences are generally not a cause for concern. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, and ensuring adequate sleep can all contribute positively to your overall sexual health. If you have ongoing concerns, seeking advice from a medical professional is always a good step.

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