When it comes to the erection, it’s move it or lose it. At least, that’s what a rumor that is seemingly as old as time itself claims, and it’s a rumor that has only grown among the male populace. No one knows where this old wives originated from, but there are men that swear by the adage. According to these men, if you don’t stay sexually active, your brain can translate any sexual feelings, be it intercourse or masturbation, into jitters and nerves, leading to the body being unable to achieve an erection.
Obviously, this claim sounds ridiculous, as how often you engage in sexual activity should have no baring on your erection. But, in actuality, the rumor isn’t as wrong as you would think; rather, there is a kernel of truth in the claim, but its not entirely accurate.
To clear things up, no, not engaging in sex does not cause the body to develop erectile issues. However, studies have found that men that stay sexually active tend to not develop ED as frequently as men that do not have much sex.
According to a study published in the American Journal of Medicine, European scientists found that infrequent sex can increase the chances of developing erectile dysfunction. The study tracked 989 men over 50 for five years, charting their sexual history. The study found that men who reported having intercourse less than once a week are twice as likely to develop ED as their sexually active counterparts.
The science behind this phenomenon is understandable: Regular sexual activity helps to keep the nerve fibers and blood vessels responsible for regulating erections active and healthy, which translates into lessened chances of ED.
But, again, this doesn’t mean not having sex is a guarantee of erectile issues. While regular sex can lessen ED chances, men who having sex daily are just as likely to develop erectile dysfunction as men who never have sex.
At the end of the day, your sexual history doesn’t matter. Simply make positive lifestyle choices, eat well, and get active, and your erection should be just fine.