UNC Healthy Heels

Here at Campus Health, we are busy preparing for Orgasm? Yes Please! which will be held on September 21 in the Union’s Great Hall from 7-9pm. Free tickets are available at the Union Box Office!

This year, we are making some changes to the program, including adding more information about men’s sexual health.  Please keep in mind that when I say “men’s” health, I mean folks with a male sex organ – a penis, not necessarily those who strictly identify as male.  We strive to be gender inclusive and provide the best information possible for folks of all gender identities, sexual orientations, and gender expressions.  Be on the lookout for a blog specific to trans sexual health soon!

In this post, we’ll talk about one organ that faces a lot of pressure when it comes to sex: the penis. Specifically—what happens when the penis does not follow orders?

Erection

For starters, some men get worried about not being able to get hard in the first place. There are many reasons why it may be difficult for the penis to become erect. Being depressed, stressed, anxious, tired, or drunk can make it difficult for a man to get hard. Sometimes, there may be no identifiable reason. Although we stereotypically think that this works the other way, men can also experience simply not “being in the mood”.

If a male experiences trouble keeping an erection it is important not to panic. More pressure and worry usually only make matters worse. The fact is that most men have at one time or another experienced not being able to maintain an erection.  And partners—try not to get defensive. It usually has nothing to do with you. Instead, be reassuring and try to suggest other bedroom activities that you could do that are still fun, enjoyable, and take away some of the pressure.

If a person faces regular problems with getting hard, it may be important to check in with a doctor to see if there is a medical reason. Some medications and serious medical conditions can change the way men are aroused. A doctor may be able to help identify the culprit and help men identify possible treatments.

Premature Ejaculation

Many men also worry about ejaculating too soon when they are with their partners. There is no exact cut off to determine if ejaculation is premature. It is really up to a male and his partner to determine if ejaculation is happening too soon.

It is estimated that between 30-40% of males have had issues with premature ejaculation. It can be helpful for men to concentrate on sensations they are feeling in other parts of their body and to relax to help prevent premature ejaculation.  For guys with consistent problems with ejaculating too soon, there are some exercises that can help erections last longer.

Remember: the penis is not the only thing that can make a sexual experience enjoyable for male-bodied people or their partners. Switch the focus to your fingers or tongue or whatever else helps get the job done.

What are some other things that men worry about when it comes to sex? Leave your comments below AND check out Orgasm? Yes Please!. on September 21, 2012 to get your questions answered.). Tickets are FREE and available to pick up at the Union Box Office.

 

References:

Solot, D. & Miller, M. (2007). I Heart Female Orgasm: An Extraordinary Orgasm Guide. Philadelphia, PA: Da Capo Press.

Joannides, P. (2003). Guide to Getting It On! 3^rd Edition. Oregon: Goofy Foot Press.

Mayo Clinic. (2011). Premature Ejaculation. Retrieved from: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/premature-ejaculation/DS0057