Erection problems aren't only for older men. They occur in younger men too, and the cause is then often a mix of the head and the body. Stress, performance pressure and lifestyle often play a big role, sometimes together with hormones or blood flow.
Honestly: in younger men the mental side is often underrated, and the shame makes it worse.
What causes erection problems in younger men?
In younger men the cause relatively often lies in psychological factors: stress, anxiety, performance pressure or relationship problems. On top of that, lifestyle, alcohol, drugs, medication and sometimes hormones or the blood vessels can play a role. It's usually a combination.
That the cause is often mental doesn't mean it's "all in your head" in a blaming way. It's simply how the body works under pressure.
What can you have investigated?
A blood test can map a low testosterone, a raised prolactin or general health values. In younger men the result is often normal, and that's useful too, because it shifts attention to the mental and lifestyle side.
When do you see your GP?
If the complaints persist or create tension in your relationship or your head, discuss it with your GP. There are good ways to work on it. See also the pillar less interest in sex and the broader piece on erectile dysfunction and the health factors.
Getting started
The Men's Hormones panel maps several hormones at once, so you can rule the physical side in or out.
References
- NHG-Standaard Erectile dysfunction (causes and course). Dutch College of General Practitioners.
- Wu FCW, et al. Identification of late-onset hypogonadism in middle-aged and elderly men. N Engl J Med. 2010;363(2):123-135. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa0911101.
- Rutgers (Dutch knowledge centre on sexuality). Sexual problems in men: background.
Disclaimer
Caliberhealth works with BIG-registered doctors who assess your blood results. This article gives general information and is not a substitute for medical advice from a GP or specialist. A blood test is a tool, not a diagnosis in itself. For serious symptoms, contact your GP, or in an emergency call 112.
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