Experiencing a soft penis during sex is undeniably a major mood killer. Not only does it disrupt pleasure for both you and your partner, but it can also be quite embarrassing. So, why does it happen?
What is Sexual Performance Anxiety?
Feeling worried about your performance in bed can lead to anxiety and have a significant impact on how you perform.
Research has even shown a close connection between performance anxiety and sexual dysfunction in both men and women.
For some men, this anxiety may result in premature ejaculation, while for others, it can lead to erectile dysfunction (ED), making it challenging to achieve or maintain an erection.
What Causes Sexual Performance Anxiety?
- Concerns about being unable to get and stay hard
- Worries about climaxing too quickly
- Doubts about your partner’s attraction to you
- Insecurities about the size of your genitals
- Fears of not being skilled enough in bed
- Worries about satisfying your partner’s sexual desires
- Watching pornography, which can lead to unrealistic comparisons and feelings of insecurity
Negative body image and self-esteem issues can also contribute to performance problems. In fact, a study involving young male military personnel revealed that a significant number of participants experienced ED due to concerns about the appearance of their genitals.
On a biological level, anxiety triggers the sympathetic nervous system, causing blood vessels to constrict. Additionally, stress hormones like epinephrine, norepinephrine, and cortisol flood the body, making it harder to maintain an erection.
Alcohol and Erection
Have you ever heard of “whiskey dick”? It refers to a temporary form of erectile dysfunction caused by excessive alcohol consumption. After all, alcohol is a depressant.
Drinking too much affects the cardiovascular and central nervous systems, interfering with sexual function.
Alcohol can cause a delay in the transmission of information between the brain and other parts of the body, including the penis.
A study examining individuals with chronic alcohol dependency found that sexual dysfunction was a common issue. It’s worth noting that even occasional over-drinking can lead to temporary ED.
Medication Side Effects and ED
Research suggests that approximately 25 percent of ED cases are caused by medication.
Certain types of blood pressure medications are known to have ED listed as a side effect, including:
- Beta-blockers: These prescription pills slow the heart rate by limiting hormones like adrenaline. Alongside erectile dysfunction, tiredness, and cold fingers are known side effects. Interestingly, research suggests that ED caused by beta-blockers may have a psychological component.
- Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ): This medication helps the kidneys eliminate excess water and salt. High doses of HCTZ have been associated with potential ED. However, there are other blood pressure medications available that do not list erectile dysfunction as a side effect.
How to Get Rid of Performance Anxiety
Seeking Professional Help If performance anxiety is the root cause of your issue, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or sex therapy can be beneficial. In therapy sessions, you’ll explore the underlying causes of your anxiety and work with a trained therapist to develop strategies to address them.
CBT focuses on identifying unhelpful patterns and behaviors in your life. With the guidance of a therapist, you’ll learn to recognize these habits and develop effective coping mechanisms.
Sex therapy offers individual or couples sessions where you’ll discuss your sexual history, beliefs, and concerns regarding your sexual experiences.
Medications for Erectile Dysfunction
A wide range of prescription ED medications are available for you to try. Some commonly prescribed options include:
- Sildenafil (Viagra®)
- Tadalafil (Cialis®)
- Avanafil (Stendra®)
These medications work by increasing blood flow to the penis, effectively improving your ability to achieve and maintain an erection.
If you’re interested in using an ED medication, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine which one may work best for you.
Treating Premature Ejaculation
Experiencing anxiety about ejaculating too quickly is not uncommon, and intense anxiety can contribute to a soft penis. Research has shown a significant link between premature ejaculation and sexual performance anxiety.
If this resonates with you, consider consulting a healthcare professional. They may suggest trying prescription medications known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
Although SSRIs are primarily used to treat depression, they have been found to help with premature ejaculation.
Another option is the use of anesthetizing creams or sprays. Applying these products to the penis can desensitize it, allowing you to last longer.
Why Is My Penis Going Soft During Sex?
The first step in addressing your soft penis issue is to identify its cause. Is performance anxiety the culprit? Could excessive alcohol consumption be a factor? Or perhaps a medication you’re taking, such as blood pressure pills?
Seeking guidance from a healthcare professional is always a wise decision. They can guide you toward the right treatment option, whether it involves therapy, ED medication, or premature ejaculation treatments.
Are you ready to regain control and understand the reasons behind your experience? Make an appointment to speak with a healthcare professional today.
