Often Unrecognized, Doctor Explains 7 Reasons Men Can Find It Difficult To Get Erected

JAKARTA - You can't get an erection when having sex does panic, especially if it happens repeatedly. But this is actually quite common and doesn't necessarily mean there are serious problems.

According to experts, the causes can be very diverse, ranging from stress, lifestyle, to certain drug side effects.

"Many men are afraid to talk about it. Even though we have to start normalizing talk about erectile dysfunction," said Dr. Juan Cedeno, an urologist from Baptist Health South Florida, quoted from the Men's Health page.

Dr. Daniel Brison, an urologist and member of the medical board at 1MD Nutrition said erectile difficulties are very common.

"Almost all men will experience it at one point in their lives," he said.

The good news is that not all cases need strong medicine. Sometimes it is enough to improve your lifestyle and maintain your health.

The following are the 7 main reasons why men can find it difficult to have an erection according to doctors.

1. Lack of sleep

Sleep is not only a matter of rest, but also when the body produces testosterone hormones.

"If you live with chronic sleep shortage habits, it is very difficult to fully enjoy sexual life," said Dr. Nathan Starke, director of the Minister of Health Clinic in Houston Methodist.

During sleep, testosterone levels rise and peak in the morning. If you often stay up late, this hormone doesn't have time to rise optimally. This leads to decreased passion and erectile difficulties.

2. Unbalanced Eating Pattern

Eating patterns have a major effect on the health of blood vessels and heart, two important things in the erectile process.

"Focus on natural foods such as high protein, low simple carbohydrates, and lots of vegetables," advises Dr. Starke.

Research at the JAMA Network Open (2020) shows that men who follow the Mediterranean diet have a lower risk of having erectile dysfunction.

3. Too much sitting

A passive lifestyle, aka rarely moving, can also be the main cause.

"Reduced physical activity increases the risk of high blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes, all of which can reduce blood flow to the penis," explained Dr. Brison.

He suggested moving regularly.

"Look at the activities you like, whether it's walking, cycling, or lifting weights. That's good for the whole body, including vital organs," he said.

4. Weight Excessive Weight Or Obesity

Obesity can interfere with hormones and slow blood flow.

"The excess weight increases inflammation, blood pressure, and neurological disorders, all of which can affect the ability of an erection," said Dr. Starke.

Losing weight with a healthy diet and regular exercise can increase testosterone levels and improve sexual function.

5. Too much alcohol

Overdrinking can be a culprit.

"Alcohol suppresses the central nervous system and lowers blood flow to the penis," said Dr. Jamin Brahmhatt of Orlando Health.

One or two glasses may help relax, but if it's too much, it makes you have an erection.

6. Just Masturbation

If you've just ejaculated, the body needs time to recharge.

"It looks like I just finished running the marathon. It will take time to recover before I can run again," said Dr. Brahmhatt.

On average, men need about 30 minutes of recovery period, although it can be different depending on age and physical condition.

7. Stress and Fatigue

Severe stress can reduce enthusiasm as well as the ability to have an erection.

"When stressed, the body enters the 'fight or flight' mode, and the erection is definitely not a priority," said Dr. Starke.

In addition, the stress hormone cortisol can suppress the effect of testosterone.

"If you continue to worry about performance in bed, that's what makes the problem worse." added Dr. Cedeno.