Stress Effects on Erectile Dysfunction

While erectile dysfunction can be a disconcerting and embarrassing condition, it is most commonly a symptom of stress. Erections are controlled by an involuntary part of the brain that also controls responses like blushing and goosebumps. Stress can affect this part of the brain and in turn cause erectile dysfunction.

Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

There are two parts to the Autonomic Nervous System: the sympathetic, which deals with sexual arousal and your fight-or-flight response; and the parasympathetic, which helps calm the body down. The penis is controlled by both of these parts of the ANS, and both must work in tandem for proper function.

Effects

During high levels of stress, these two sections of the ANS are out of alignment. In some cases, the body overcompensates and the parasympathetic input does not reach the penis, making an erection impossible. In other situations, a man may get an erection, but there is a surge in sympathetic input and he will lose that erection.

Levels of Stress

It takes very little stress to disrupt the flow of sympathetic and parasympathetic input. This makes erectile dysfunction a somewhat common symptom.

Disease

If a man is able to achieve an erection while asleep, it is a sign that the problem with erectile dysfunction is related to stress and not disease.

Managing Stress

Learning relaxation techniques, cognitive therapy and exercise are all ways to reduce stress. With a reduction of stress, erectile dysfunction will most often resolve itself on its own.

Resources

• More information on Stress-related erectile dysfunction