How long does an erection last?

A penile erection can normally last anywhere from a few minutes to about half an hour, though duration can vary from person to person. On average, men have around three to five erections a night while they’re sleeping, each lasting about 25–35 minutes. But that doesn’t mean all erections last that long.

During sexual arousal, tiny blood vessels in the penis dilate, increasing blood flow to the area. Three tubes of spongy tissue (two corpus cavernosa and one corpus spongiosum) fill with blood, and an erection occurs. 

After ejaculation occurs or arousal decreases, the extra blood drains away, and the penis reverts to its flaccid size and appearance. Then the penis enters a rest or refractory period before it can become erect again. 

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Erection duration varies from person to person. Many variables can affect how long an erection lasts, including: 

• Age

• Health problems 

• Side effects of medications

• Level of sexual stimulation or arousal

• Type of sexual activity (for example, masturbating or partnered sex) 

• Psychological factors, such as stress, anxiety, and mood

There is also an upper limit: erections can last too long. This is a condition called priapism, a condition that requires prompt medical attention. An erection lasting more than four hours can cause permanent damage.

There are at least three different types of erections: 

• Reflexive erections happen in response to physical touch or stimulation and do not require thinking about sex.

• Psychogenic erections occur in response to sexual stimuli, memory, or fantasy. 

• Nocturnal erections happen during sleep (commonly referred to as "morning wood").

Difficulty getting an erection, erections that aren't sufficiently firm, or erections that don't last long enough for satisfying sex may be signs of erectile dysfunction (ED).

ED is very common. It's estimated that more than 30 million American men experience erectile problems.

ED medications

Oral medications for ED are often safe and effective, especially the phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors. These work by dilating and relaxing the blood vessels in the penis, allowing for increased blood flow and better erections in response to sexual stimulation.

Common PDE5 inhibitors are sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), and vardenafil.

While pills are the most common and first-line treatment for ED, certain PDE5 inhibitors can be found in other formulations, such as:

• Ro Sparks*: These sublingual (under-the-tongue) dissolving tablets contain both sildenafil and tadalafil (the active ingredients in Viagra and Cialis) for a fast-acting combination ED treatment. 

• Daily Rise Gummies*: These gummies contain a low dose (7 mg) of tadalafil, the active ingredient in Cialis. When taken daily, the medication stays active in the bloodstream around the clock.

Ultimately, the best ED medication for you will depend on your needs and preferences. A healthcare provider can help determine which option is safest and best for you. 

*While these formulations have not specifically been FDA-approved for the treatment of ED, their individual ingredients have been FDA approved for ED.  

Foreplay

Erection difficulties can sometimes stem from stress, distraction, or insufficient arousal. Being stressed or distracted can affect erection quality, and slowing things down with more foreplay may help. 

Engaging in foreplay, such as kissing, touching, and verbal intimacy, can help prepare the body and mind before sex, allowing more time to achieve a firm erection. 

Lifestyle changes

Erections tend to be stronger when your overall health is good. The following lifestyle changes may help improve ED:

• Eating a healthy, balanced diet (such as the Mediterranean diet)

• Exercising regularly

• Reducing or managing stress

• Improving sleep

In addition to general exercise,  pelvic floor exercises, such as Kegels may also be beneficial. If ED is an ongoing concern, a pelvic floor physical therapist can assist with these exercises and perform pelvic floor massages.

Avoid alcohol and smoking

Drinking too much and using tobacco products can definitely affect erection quality. Excessive alcohol use may contribute to acute erectile difficulties — sometimes called "whiskey dick" — and smoking can also lead to blood vessel damage and ED. Drinking in moderation and avoiding tobacco are both recommended for those managing ED.

Open communication with your partner

Talking openly with a partner about sexual preferences and desires can help keep intimacy in a long-term relationship fulfilling. Unresolved relationship conflicts can also contribute to ED, so addressing those outside the bedroom is worthwhile.

ED can be more than a sexual health concern — it may be a sign of an underlying medical issue such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease, among others. Anyone experiencing symptoms of ED should speak with a healthcare provider to help determine whether there is an underlying cause and explore appropriate treatment options.

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Every person is different; however, the average erection generally lasts from a few minutes to about half an hour.

• Many factors can affect erection duration, including health conditions, age, and medications. Arousal level and type of sexual stimulation (masturbation versus partnered sex) can also play a role.

• Healthy lifestyle changes — such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol, and quitting smoking — can support erection quality. Adding more foreplay and maintaining open communication with a partner may also help.

• If ED continues despite lifestyle changes, a healthcare provider can prescribe medications such as Viagra or Cialis to help improve erections.

• It's also possible for an erection to last too long. An erection lasting four hours or more — especially when accompanied by pain or occurring without sexual stimulation — could indicate priapism, a medical emergency.