Sexual Desire and Erection Issues in Young Men

Sexual desire and erection questions?

Hello doctor, here are the key points: I have no sexual desire and experience slow erections; sometimes I can achieve a firm erection, but other times it is soft.
I started having some issues in mid-February of this year.
After a night of masturbation in mid-February, I noticed a lack of sexual desire the following day, and my previous sexual urges disappeared.
Before these symptoms, I would quickly become aroused and achieve an erection at the sight of attractive women, but since that night of masturbation, I no longer feel sexual desire when I see beautiful women, making it difficult to imagine deeply and achieve an erection.
Sometimes I can get an erection, but it is not as firm as before.
Previously, I would want to masturbate every 2 to 5 days and often had various thoughts, but now the frequency has decreased to about once a week, and I lose my erection if I get distracted.
I occasionally experience morning erections, but they are not as firm as before.
My lifestyle and diet are irregular; I often stay up until 2 or 3 AM, but I am now trying to go to bed before 2 AM, although my schedule is still somewhat inconsistent.
I usually do not exercise much, and recently I have noticed an increase in abdominal fat, often sweating profusely with little exertion.
For additional context, I am 170 cm tall and weigh about 58 kg.
I can achieve an erection manually, but it is not as firm as it used to be, and I have difficulty achieving spontaneous erections.
I have not yet had any sexual experience.

Doctor, could this be a sign of kidney deficiency? If I exercise and adjust my routine, can I recover? Please tell me how to resolve this.
I am only 21 years old...

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/06/24

Dr. Fu Shizhang reply Urology

This is not related to the kidneys.
In young individuals, erectile dysfunction is primarily psychogenic.
Additionally, lifestyle and dietary habits have a significant impact.
Poor habits, such as smoking and drinking, are also strongly associated.
It is recommended to first adjust lifestyle habits; going to bed before 2 AM is still insufficient; one should aim to sleep between 10 PM and 11 PM.
Regular exercise should help improve the situation.

Reply Date: 2015/06/24

More Info

Understanding sexual desire and erection issues in young men can be complex and multifaceted. It is not uncommon for young men to experience fluctuations in libido and erectile function, especially during periods of stress, lifestyle changes, or health issues. Based on your description, it seems you have been experiencing a significant change in your sexual desire and erectile function since February, which has understandably caused you concern.

Firstly, it is important to recognize that sexual desire can be influenced by a variety of factors, including psychological, physical, and lifestyle elements. Stress, anxiety, and emotional well-being play critical roles in sexual health. If you have been feeling anxious or stressed about your sexual performance or desires, this could contribute to a decrease in libido and difficulties with erections. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as irregular sleep patterns, poor diet, and lack of exercise can significantly impact your overall health, including sexual health.

You mentioned that your lifestyle has been somewhat irregular, with late nights and limited physical activity. These habits can lead to fatigue and hormonal imbalances, which may affect your sexual desire and erectile function. Regular exercise is known to improve circulation, boost testosterone levels, and enhance mood, all of which can positively influence sexual health. Therefore, incorporating a consistent exercise routine and improving your diet could be beneficial. Aim for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, and try to establish a regular sleep schedule to support your overall well-being.

Regarding the physical aspect of your concerns, it is essential to understand that erectile function can vary from day to day. Factors such as fatigue, stress, and even hydration levels can affect how firm an erection is. The fact that you can still achieve an erection through stimulation, albeit with less firmness, suggests that there may not be a significant underlying physical issue, but rather a combination of psychological and lifestyle factors at play.

You also mentioned experiencing morning erections, which is a positive sign that your body is still capable of achieving erections naturally. This indicates that the physiological mechanisms are functioning, but there may be psychological barriers or lifestyle factors that need to be addressed.

If you are concerned about the possibility of "kidney deficiency" or other medical conditions, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. They can assess your overall health, including hormonal levels, and provide guidance tailored to your specific situation. It is crucial to rule out any underlying medical conditions that could be contributing to your symptoms.

In summary, addressing your concerns about sexual desire and erection issues involves a holistic approach. Focus on improving your lifestyle by establishing a regular sleep schedule, engaging in regular physical activity, and maintaining a balanced diet. Additionally, consider seeking support from a healthcare professional or a mental health counselor if you feel that anxiety or stress is impacting your sexual health. Remember, it is normal for young men to experience fluctuations in sexual desire and function, and with the right adjustments, you can work towards regaining your confidence and sexual health.

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