How long can a man remain erect? Determining and describing sexual performance is never simple, and it is subjective since everyone is different.

Because averages within a population can provide insight into sexual health for that population, we can answer these questions for the average man.

That’s what we’ll do in this article—establishing the average length of time a man can remain erect after achieving a full erection, explaining the details that can influence that time, and defining the parameters for when a man should consult a physician regarding this issue.

What is an Erection?

An erection occurs when the penis enlarges and becomes firm or rigid. The physiological process involves multiple systems and is often described as a hemodynamic event or vascular phenomenon. For an erection to occur, there must be sexual arousal and stimulation, followed by the release of a gas called nitric oxide in the erectile tissue of the penis.

This gas relaxes the blood vessels of the penis and allows more blood to enter. Men typically and naturally experience ejaculation alongside sexual intercourse and penetration, but it’s the duration of time that a man can sustain the erect position during penetration that varies.

How Long Can the Average Man Stay Erect?

An erection can last anywhere between a few minutes to a couple of hours depending on various factors. Age, health, level of arousal, and individual circumstances can all impact how long an erection is sustained. For the average male, an erection generally lasts between 5-10 minutes during sexual intercourse.

Consider the following factors:

• During Sexual Intercourse: Men, on average, can maintain an erection for 5-7 minutes when engaging in intercourse, although this varies for different individuals.

• In the Morning: Men can experience spontaneous erections, also known as “morning wood”, which can last up to 30 minutes to an hour. This is a result of hormonal changes and REM (rapid eye movement) sleep cycles.

• During Masturbation: An erection can last a couple of minutes when engaging in masturbation, contingent on individual arousal and sexual health.

Factors That Determine How Long a Man Can Stay Erect

There are various reasons why a man may struggle to maintain an erection for an extended period. These reasons include:

1. Age

As men grow older, their ability to hold an erection for longer durations may decrease. This can be attributed to changes in hormone production, blood circulation, and muscle tissue. In addition, older men may have shorter erections or need extra stimulation to maintain an erection.

2. Physical Health

Another reason is attributed to overall health. If a person suffers from diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease, they may struggle to maintain an erection due to blood circulation issues. Exercising, eating healthy, and avoiding smoking or drinking can positively improve erectile function.

3. Mental Health

Finally, one’s state of mind can be another contributing factor when trying to maintain an erection. Factors such as anxiety, stress, depression, and relationship issues may stem from performance anxiety and can make it difficult to hold an erection. Psychological factors can also determine how long a man can stay erect.

4. Hormonal Levels

Testosterone, the male sex hormone involved in sexual desire and function, can impact erectile duration. Low testosterone levels can cause erectile dysfunction (ED) and affect the ability to sustain an erection. Hormonal imbalances are common as men age, but they can also result from obesity and certain medications.

5. Medications and Drugs

Some medications can impair erectile function. For example, antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and blood pressure medications can affect ED. Alcohol, nicotine, and recreational drugs also impair sexual performance and can reduce the duration of an erection.

6. Stimulation

A lack of sexual arousal and physical stimulation can cause an erection to subside. However, a higher level of arousal may lead to longer-lasting erections. If there is strong arousal, the erection may last longer.

When Should You Be Concerned About Erection Duration?

Erections should last on average 5 to 10 minutes, but some men may struggle with premature ejaculation or erectile dysfunction (ED). If you frequently have difficulties sustaining an erection or your erections last too long (this is called priapism), you should seek medical help.

Here are a few examples of when you should see a doctor:

• Persistent Erections (Priapism): An erection that lasts more than four hours can be dangerous and may risk damaging your erectile tissue. It should be treated as an emergency.

• Difficulty With Achieving or Maintaining an Erection: If you find that you are unable to achieve or maintain an erection, this could be a sign of erectile dysfunction (ED). This is quite common and can often be managed through lifestyle changes, therapy, and/or medication.

• Premature Ejaculation: If you find that you are ejaculating before you intend to (within one minute of penetration), this can be frustrating and should be discussed with a provider to find a treatment or way to improve your sexual experience.

If you are concerned about your erections and how long they last, here are some tips:

• Exercise: Cardiovascular exercises are best for improving blood flow and overall health.

• Control Your Stress: Stress and performance anxiety can disrupt erections and your ability to enjoy sexual experiences.

• Eat Better: Focus on eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meat to improve blood circulation and overall health.

• Stop Smoking and Drinking: Smoking and excessive drinking can lead to problems with erections and how long they last.

• Talk to a Doctor: Persistent erection issues can be a sign of a deeper problem. Consult a doctor to identify the causes and find appropriate treatments.

Conclusion

The average time a man can stay erect differs based on factors such as age and health. Most men can remain erect for 5 to 10 minutes. Mental and physical health, as well as lifestyle, can improve or worsen this duration. With all this in mind, if this is a concern, a medical professional should be consulted.