Erectile Dysfunction Solutions: How to Get (And Keep) An Erection Without Meds

What is Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction, also called ED or impotence, refers to trouble getting hard and keeping a firm erection for long enough to have sex. It’s important to note that if you’ve experienced ED, you’re not alone! Erectile dysfunction is a common ailment, affecting between 30 and 50 million men in the United States. Unfortunately, erectile dysfunction can lead to issues like stress, decreased self-confidence, and challenges with your partner. 

You may want to consult your doctor if you’re suffering from erectile dysfunction to learn about treatment options. These days, many men are also turning to non-medical treatments like sex toys and dietary supplements. Keep reading to learn more and to find out if sex toys or supplements might help you achieve harder, longer-lasting erections and a more vibrant sex life.

Why Does My Erection Go Away So Fast?

Your sexual wellness can be affected by many different factors, from job stress to tobacco use. Here are some common contributors to erectile dysfunction:

Aging

Older people may experience higher rates of ED than younger men, due to age-related decline in testosterone levels. Older adults may also be more likely to experience conditions or take medications that can lead to ED.

Stress or Emotional Issues

Sexual wellness is influenced by both physical and psychological factors. Sometimes ED can be caused by conditions like stress, depression, or anxiety. 

Alcohol 

Excessive drinking in both the short term and the long term can interfere with your hormone levels, nervous system, and circulation, making it difficult to achieve or keep an erection. 

Tobacco Use

Tobacco use can lead to vascular changes, potentially affecting your ability to achieve a strong erection.

Low Levels of Testosterone

Testosterone is a hormone that, in adult males, enhances libido and an overall sense of well-being.

Obesity

Some studies suggest that obesity may be a risk factor for ED. Obesity is a medical condition, often associated with a body mass index (BMI) of over 30.

Injury

Some types of injuries, such as those affecting the nerves, veins, or penile tissue, can affect your erection.

Underlying Health Concerns

Erectile dysfunction may be a symptom of an underlying health issue. You may want to see your doctor for help identifying what is causing your erectile dysfunction.

ED Solutions

Solutions like sex toys and dietary supplements for men will not treat any underlying conditions that may be contributing to your erectile dysfunction; however, they can help improve your erections, enhance your sexual function, and increased your enjoyment, so you can have more satisfying sexual experiences. 

Play Your Way to Stronger Erections

Sex aids have been used pretty much since the beginning of time to enhance sexual experiences. If you’re interested in a non-invasive way to strengthen your erection, here are four types of sex toys that may help:

Cock Rings

A cock ring is a flexible ring that fits snugly around the penis and/or scrotum to restrict blood flow out of the erect penis, allowing you to achieve harder erections for longer. 

Cock rings are available in many styles, including soft, stretchy rings, vibrating cock rings, adjustable rings, and double rings that fit around both the penis and scrotum. Cock rings can enhance the sexual experience of both the wearer and the receiver.

Penis Sleeves

Penis sleeves can function both as a stimulating toy and as a penile support device. It’s a hollow device worn over the penis to make the penis longer, add girth, or help you keep an erection. A fitted penis sleeve can give you a tighter, more pleasurable sensation, while also allowing you to reach your partner’s most sensitive erogenous zones.

Some penis sleeves cover the penis shaft only (sleeves); while others cover the entire penis from base to tip (sheaths); and still others cover the entire penis and then some, with extra material to extend the length and/or girth of the penis (extenders).

Male Vibrators

A male vibrator is a sex toy equipped with a small motor that delivers stimulating vibrations, and is specifically designed for people with male anatomy. Incorporating a vibrator into your sexual wellness routine may increase arousal and pleasure, leading to stronger erections. 

Male vibrators include erotic toys like vibrating penis sleeves, anal vibrators, strokers, and prostate massagers, and many styles are designed to be stimulating for your partner, too!

Penis Pumps

A penis pump is a plastic tube that fits over the penis. A pump is then used to draw the air out of the tube, creating a vacuum that pulls blood into the penis. Then, you can place a cock ring at the base of the penis to restrict blood flow out. The result is a firm erection that lasts long enough to have sex.

Supplements for Male Enhancement

Men interested in natural remedies for erectile dysfunction may also find positive results with dietary supplements like L-Arginine, Ginseng, Maca, Gingko Biloba, and Ashwagandha. Before adding any supplements to your wellness routine, it’s a good idea to talk with your doctor, particularly if you take other medications or if you’re affected by long-term health conditions.

L-Arginine

L-Arginine supplements may help improve blood flow, resulting in firmer, longer-lasting erections. 

Side effects may include stomach upset, bloating, headache, insomnia, and diarrhea.

Ginseng

Studies have suggested that Korean Red Ginseng may be a particularly effective treatment for erectile dysfunction, though researchers state that more research is necessary into the efficacy of Korean Red Ginseng.

Short-term red ginseng use is considered safe for most people, but may have some side effects including trouble sleeping, increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, dizziness, headache, diarrhea, and rash.

Maca

Some research has found that maca can help improve sperm concentration and increase libido. 

Reported side effects of maca include stomach upset, headaches, and insomnia.

Gingko Biloba

Gingko may increase blood flow to the penis, potentially resulting in stronger erections.

Side effects may include dizziness, digestive symptoms, and headache. 

Ashwagandha

An herb used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, Ashwagandha has a wide range of potential benefits, including increased testosterone, which can lead to enhanced libido and overall wellbeing in men.

Some folks might experience side effects like nausea or headache with the use of ashwagandha.

Tips for Managing Erectile Dysfunction: Make Small Changes for Big Results

Living with erectile dysfunction is a challenge, but small changes can go a long way! Here are a few tips to help with daily erectile dysfunction management:

Communicate With Your Partner

Talk honestly with your partner about what’s going on so there are no misunderstandings. You can stay close by communicating openly and spending quality time together outside of the bedroom.

Healthy Lifestyle

Some lifestyle changes, such as cutting back on alcohol or losing weight, may improve your condition. Changes like improving your diet, walking regularly, and incorporating kegel exercises can help restore sexual performance and satisfaction.

Try New Things in the Bedroom

It’s a myth that men with erectile dysfunction can’t satisfy their partner. Trying something new, or spicing things up with a new sex toy can lead to enhanced intimacy for everyone involved.

Erectile Dysfunction FAQs

How can I get an erection without meds?

Non-medical ways to enhance your erection include the use of sex toys like cock rings, penile support devices, penis pumps, and male vibrators. You may also want to try a dietary supplement known to support men’s sexual wellness, such as L-Arginine, Ginseng, Gingko Biloba, Maca, or Ashwagandha.

How long can the average man stay hard?

An erection can last anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours. The average amount of time a person has an erection during sex before they ejaculate is about seven minutes.

Why does my erection go away so fast?

There are many factors that may contribute to erectile dysfunction, including stress and other mental health issues, injury, alcohol or tobacco use, age, and certain medications.