Factors Affecting Erection: the Impact of Adult Content - Urology

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Factors Affecting Erection


Due to recently watching adult films and wanting to engage in DIY activities, I feel that my erection only gets bigger but not significantly harder, and I ejaculate quickly.
However, when I simply watch adult films or more suggestive images without the intention of DIY, I can achieve a full erection, although sometimes I can only maintain it for a few minutes.
I'm wondering if this is because I've been watching adult films since I was 13 or 14, and over time, I have become desensitized to them.
In the mornings, just thinking about something more erotic allows me to achieve full engorgement, and I can maintain it for a while.
Can I temporarily stop watching adult films and engaging in DIY, and will these issues improve when I have a regular sexual partner in the future?

ABC, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/07/26

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology


Hello everyone, the hardness and length of the penis during each erection can vary depending on the level of stimulation.
Masturbation and actual sexual intercourse provide different types of stimulation.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again for further discussion and research.
Answers found online should only be used as a reference; it is essential to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility if necessary.
This message is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of the Urology Department at Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan, who cares about your well-being.

Reply Date: 2013/07/26

More Info


The concerns you've raised about erectile function and the impact of adult content consumption are quite common and warrant a comprehensive understanding of the underlying factors involved.
Firstly, it's important to recognize that erectile function is influenced by a myriad of factors, including psychological, physiological, and relational aspects. The experiences you've described suggest a potential desensitization to sexual stimuli due to prolonged exposure to adult content, which can affect arousal and erectile response. This phenomenon is often referred to as "porn-induced erectile dysfunction" (PIED), where individuals may find it challenging to achieve or maintain an erection in the absence of pornography or when engaging in sexual activities that do not involve adult content.

When you mention that you can achieve an erection while viewing adult content but struggle during DIY activities, it may indicate that your brain has become conditioned to respond to the specific stimuli presented in pornography. Pornography often portrays exaggerated scenarios that can create unrealistic expectations regarding sexual performance and arousal. This can lead to a disconnect between what is experienced in real-life sexual encounters versus what is seen in adult films.

Moreover, the psychological aspect cannot be overlooked. Anxiety, stress, and performance pressure can significantly impact erectile function. If you find yourself feeling anxious about your performance or worried about your ability to maintain an erection, this can create a cycle of anxiety that further exacerbates the issue. The fact that you can achieve an erection upon waking and thinking about sexual content suggests that your physiological responses are intact, but the psychological factors may be playing a role in your experiences during DIY activities.

Taking a break from adult content and DIY activities, as you suggested, could be beneficial. This period of abstinence may help reset your sexual responses and allow you to reconnect with your body's natural arousal mechanisms. Engaging in mindfulness practices, focusing on intimacy, and exploring sexual experiences with a partner can also help in re-establishing a healthy sexual response.
Additionally, it’s crucial to consider the role of a supportive and understanding partner in this process. Open communication about sexual desires, preferences, and concerns can foster a more relaxed environment, which is conducive to better sexual experiences.
If these issues persist, it may be worthwhile to consult a healthcare professional or a sex therapist who specializes in sexual health. They can provide tailored advice and strategies to address any underlying psychological or physiological concerns.
In summary, your experiences highlight the complex interplay between psychological conditioning, sexual arousal, and erectile function. Taking a break from adult content, focusing on building intimacy with a partner, and seeking professional guidance if necessary can all contribute to improving your sexual health and function. Remember, sexual health is an integral part of overall well-being, and addressing these concerns is a positive step towards achieving a fulfilling sexual life.

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