Morning wood, or Nocturnal Penile Tumescence (NPT) as it’s formally named, is a regular occurrence for many boys and men. As they may occasionally wake up with an erect penis. However, NPT is more common in younger men but it can technically affect men of any age. Many people believe that an erection in the morning indicates sexual stimulation, but this isn’t always the case. But did you know that morning wood is actually medically essential for penile health?
Morning wood is medically essential to penile health. Not having it for long periods of time could indicate an underlying issue. NPT suggests that you’re physically capable of obtaining and maintaining an erection while awake.
Who Gets Morning Wood?
Men of all ages can experience Nocturnal Penile Tumescence (NPT). It is a symptom of a fully functioning blood and neural system in and around the penis healthy at any age.
Boys as young as 6 to 8 years old may be subjected to NPT. While men in their 60s and 70s are also susceptible to it. However, it will become less common as Erectile Dysfunction (ED) concerns start to emerge. These issues will become more prevalent as you become older. (Source: Healthline)
What Does It Mean If You Stop Getting Morning Wood?
If you stop having Nocturnal Penile Tumescence (NPT) completely or notice that you are no longer waking up with an erect penis, it could be an early symptom of a medical concern. This is most likely a symptom of physical Erectile Dysfunction (ED). It’s possible that anything in your body is inhibiting optimal erectile function by preventing appropriate blood or nerve supply. Some physical impairments may also exacerbate ED.
Your capacity to experience morning wood may also be affected by medications. Painkillers and some antidepressants may prevent NPT. Although NPT is becoming less frequent as people age, it’s time to consult your doctor if you’re young and don’t have a morning erection or if your erections abruptly stop. (Source: Healthline)
When Do You Need to See a Doctor?
Contrary to what people may think, morning wood is healthy, and it’s rarely a reason to see your doctor. However, there are situations that may mean it’s time to make an appointment with your physician. These include:
When You Stop Having Morning Wood
If you used to have morning wood but no longer do or have fewer erections, you should see your doctor. While it’s typical for NPT episodes to become less regular as you become older, a dramatic decrease in frequency could indicate an underlying medical condition.
You Start Having Painful Erections
Most morning erections will subside within 30 minutes of waking up. If your erections last more than an hour after you wake up or if they become painful, you should make an appointment to see your doctor.
When it comes to NPT, too much and too little are problematic. Some men have an erection every single morning. While others have less than once-a-week experiences. Talk to your doctor about how often you have morning wood during your annual medical exam. If you’re not having enough of it, your doctor may be able to help you figure out what’s causing it. (Source: Healthline)