Ask The Doctor

I was just wondering if this is normal for guys, to not be like stone cold metal hard? Is the penis supposed to be a little bit soft when fully erect, or should I consider viagra or something. My penis is only 6" long and its of average thickness. She said that last person she had sex with had no problem penetrating her with the same size penis.

I am really worried about this because I want to please her but I just can't get hard enough. Are there any exercises or herbs I can take to make me rock hard? I am 25 ibs over weight but its not even noticeable really, could that be adding to the problem. I also recently came off painkillers which I had been taking for almost a year straight (tylenol 3, codeine, oxycotin) up until 6 weeks ago. I have also had to take prednisone in the past but have not had it for nearly a year.

Anyway anyone with any advice/help it would be so very much appreciated, thanks in advance.

DEAR KYLE: Erectile Dysfunction has many causes

It can occure when there is restriction of blood supply to penis.  medical conditions that effect blood flow to the penis (and other organs) include diabetes, high cholesterol and hypertension.  Factors that lead to these conditions such as smoking and high fat diet also contribute.

Neurological conditions that damage the spinal cord can effect the communication between the brain, spinal cord and penis and impair or completely prevent erections.  This commonly occurs in spinal cord injuries caused by motor vehicle accidents.

Despite the above, Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, guilt, depression, low self-esteem, and fear of sexual failure are probably the leading cause cause of ED cases in my practice. Experts often treat psychologically based ED using techniques that decrease the anxiety associated with intercourse. Your partner can help with the techniques, which include gradual development of intimacy and stimulation. Such techniques also can help relieve anxiety, fear and other psychological factors and change the mood of the person to treat ED.

To identify and cure your erectile dysfunction I strongly suggest seeing your family physician in person.  If you do not have spinal cord damage, there are medications that can help in the short term.