How Long Can An Average Man Stay Erect?

When the question comes to male sexual health, several questions arise about performance and expectations. One of the most common queries is, “How long can the average man stay erect?” In this blog, we will explore the average erection duration, the factors that might affect it, and the ways to maintain a healthy sexual life.

What Is An Erection?

An erection is generally defined as the hardening of the penis. It occurs when sponge-like tissue in the penis fills with blood.  An erection usually causes enlargement of the penis and typically occurs as a result of sexual arousal.  The erections might go away on their own or after the release of semen from the penis, that is called ejaculation.

Different Types Of Erections

There are three types of erections. They are:

Nocturnal erection : It is a type of erection of the penis that occurs when waking up or during sleep.

Psychogenic erection : It is a type of erection that generally occurs through fantasies, emotions, and thoughts. It usually happens after or during receiving visual, mental, auditory, or emotional stimulation.

Reflexogenic erection : It is a type of erection that results from any direct physical touch or contact.

How Does An Erection Take Place?

An erection always starts with mental and sensory stimulation in the brain.  The brain begins to send messages to your penis through the nerves. One of the major muscles of the penis, called the corpora cavernosa, contains erectile tissue. When sexual stimulation takes place, the nervous system is activated. It releases several molecules that help in relaxing the erectile tissues in the corpora cavernosa, which allows the blood to enter the penis resulting in an erection.   To maintain an erection, the sheath that surrounds the corpus cavernosum helps to stop the blood flow from leaving the penis. It helps keep an erection from disappearing too quickly.

An erection might reduce its size and dissipate when the ejaculation occurs or in the case of a sudden erection. It happens when the muscles of the penis contract, which stops the blood from flowing into the penis and opens the channels for blood to leave the penis.

How Long Can The Average Man Stay Erect?

The amount of time the average erections last will vary based on your level of sexual stimulation, mood, and health conditions.

A 2005 study that included 500 couples in five countries found that the total time passed from the start of sex until intravaginal ejaculation ranged from under one minute to as long as 44 minutes.

People can get an average of 3-5 nocturnal erections and 10-15 during a day of varying durations.

Jay Simhan, MD, and urologist of the Einstein Healthcare Network in Philadelphia, also clarifies that there are no definitive guidelines for the duration of an erection.

However, if you frequently lose your erection during sex or before ejaculating, there might be a high chance that you are suffering from erectile dysfunction. It is a common condition that is characterized by the inability to achieve or sustain an erection. There’s nothing to worry about; there are treatment options that are available to cure ED symptoms. Some practical and widely used medications available at Pharmabridge International, a licensed and trusted online pharmacy, are generic Viagra, Levitra, and Cialis.

Why Can’t A Person Get An Erection?

The average man generally does not have any problem staying hard during a sexual encounter or while masturbating.  But when a person cannot maintain an erection that’s hard enough for sexual intercourse, it is termed erectile dysfunction.  The factors that might contribute to the symptoms of ED are:

Vascular disease : The blood supply to the penis becomes blocked or narrowed due to high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes. This can result in diseases such as atherosclerosis.

Neurological disorders : The nerves that send signals to the penis get damaged from stroke, diabetes or other causes.

Psychological factors : Stress, depression, and performance anxiety are the contributing factors to ED.

Trauma : An injury might also contribute to the symptoms of ED.

Certain medications : Different types of medications might affect erections. Surgery on your prostate, bladder or another organ in your reproductive system.

Factors Affecting The Duration Of Erections

Different factors might affect an erection. Some of them are listed below:

• Diabetes.
• High blood pressure.
• Heart disease.
• Low testosterone.
• Overweight or obesity.
• Multiple sclerosis.
• Unhealthy habits like smoking and drinking in excessive amounts.
• Injuries to the penis and surrounding area.

Can Erections Last Too Long?

The erections can last for an extended period of 4 hours or more. It might cause pain or discomfort that is not normal. The condition is also termed priapism, a serious medical emergency. It occurs when blood flows to the penis but is not able to drain properly due to a blockage in the outflow channels.

How Do I Make My Erection Last Longer?

When you have any difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection, then the erections aren’t as firm as you would prefer. Here is a list of things that you can do to improve your erections:

ED medications : ED medications such as generic Viagra, Cialis, or Levitra are safe and effective when prescribed by a doctor.

To remain physically active : Regular physical workouts are essential in improving erectile quality and duration by improving blood circulation and boosting testosterone levels.

Quitting smoking : The habit of smoking not only reduces the ability and strength of your lungs and heart but the nicotine that is present in tobacco products is called a vasoconstrictor that will tighten the blood vessels and arteries. It can increase blood pressure and reduce overall

blood circulation, which can impact erection.

Eating healthy : Foods rich in saturated fat, sodium, and processed food can plug up your arteries and hurt blood flow. Some foods that help erections include vegetables, fruits, and legumes.

Reducing stress : It is essential to lower your stress because when you are stressed, the body releases a chemical called cortisol, which is known to constrict blood vessels and elevate the heart rate. It helps increase blood pressure and can affect the erection process.

When To See A Doctor

A person should seek professional help if they frequently have an issue of getting and maintaining an erection. The medical provider helps to find a root cause and provides a better treatment to help the person regain a firm penile erection.

Conclusion

Whenever the question comes to the average length of time, it is essential to note that this generally depends upon factors such as age, physical health, emotional well-being, and individual differences.  A typical erection might last anywhere from a few minutes to around 30 minutes during sexual activity. It is essential to focus on overall health and communication with your partner to maintain a firm penile erection.