There are many causes of erectile dysfunction or ED. It can be because of an underlying medical condition, like diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, or heart conditions. It can be because of psychological issues, like stress, anxiety, or depression. It can also be because of lifestyle issues, like smoking or alcoholism. But there’s one surprising claim that makes erectile dysfunction an even more complex issue: hot water exposure causing erectile dysfunction. There are claims that hot baths, saunas, and hot tubs can adversely affect your sexual function. How true are these claims? Can hot water cause erectile dysfunction? Let’s find out!
Hot water and erectile dysfunction
The relationship between hot water and erectile dysfunction is a contentious issue. Hot water by itself won’t cause erectile dysfunction. However, some studies suggest that prolonged exposure to hot water might lead to erectile dysfunction. When we say prolonged exposure, we’re talking about frequently bathing with hot water or staying in a hot tub for prolonged periods of time.
The safest time that you can stay in a hot bath or a hot tub is around 15-30 minutes. Nonetheless, the best time depends on different factors, like your health and how you feel. The water temperature is also a factor. If it’s too hot for you, it’s best to get out.
Possible nerve damage
Some claim that staying in a sauna for a long time might harm the male reproductive system. After all, steam is a form of water. How does hot water cause erectile dysfunction?
We all know that hot water can cause nerve damage. When your skin comes in contact with hot water, you might get burns. Although some damages might be superficial, like redness in the skin or mild blistering, some damages are more severe. Some burns from hot water might damage your nerve endings. This is what might increase your risk of erectile dysfunction.
Your penis contains nerves. Your pelvic region also contains nerves connected to your penis. Damages to these nerves because of prolonged exposure to hot water might increase your risk of erectile dysfunction.
One type of nerve essential to male sexual functions is the pudendal nerve. The pudendal nerve is a major nerve found in your pelvic region. One of its most important functions is to send sensation information to your penis. The pudendal nerve is responsible for sending feelings of pain or pleasure to your anus and external genitals. The pudendal nerve is also responsible for the sensations you feel in your foreskin. Your foreskin is one of your primary erogenous zones.
Damages to the pudendal nerve might result in reduced sensitivity in your sex organs. This means that your partner might not be able to sexually stimulate you to achieve erection.
The pudendal nerve is also crucial for sexual behaviour. It sends sensory information from your genital area to your brain. This information spurs you into action and increases your libido. The lack or reduction of sensory information in your brain might lead to lower libido or reduced interest in sexual intercourse. If you lack interest in sex, it will be harder (pun intended) to achieve or maintain an erection.
Low blood pressure
We already know that erections are due to the penis getting filled with blood. There is a part of the penis called the corpus cavernosa. The corpus cavernosa are the erectile tissues of your penis. They form two cylinders or chambers. They are spongy and contain blood vessels. When you get aroused, the blood vessels of the corpus cavernosa fill up with blood, resulting in an erection.
What’s this got to do with hot water? There is a theory that hot water affects blood vessels. Hot water causes blood vessels to dilate. This process is called Vasodilation.
When you expose yourself too long in hot water, blood vessels dilate — leading to lower blood pressure. Lower blood pressure means less blood flowing into your penis. This can prevent you from achieving an erection. If you manage to achieve an erection with low blood pressure, it might not be as hard or you might not be able to maintain it for a long time. If your blood pressure drops too low, you might also pass out.
Hot water and the male reproductive system
Aside from its possible effects on erectile dysfunction, hot water can also affect the male reproductive system in other ways. Prolonged exposure to hot water (for around more than an hour) might temporarily affect your sperm. Your testes, the body part in charge of sperm production, need to remain at a slightly cooler temperature than the rest of your body. This is why you will notice your testes hanging lower than usual during hot weather.
When you are exposed to hot water for a long time, the amount of sperm that your testes produce will be lower than normal. The quality of sperm it produces also gets affected. Your sperm might have low motility. Motility is the sperm’s ability to swim in search of an egg to fertilize. This means that you have a lower chance of conceiving if you and your partner want to have a baby. The good news is these are temporary and reversible. Once the testes return to their normal temperature, sperm production and quality should also be back to normal levels.
Benefits of hot water
Although there are claims about the possible negative effects of hot water on male sexual functions, hot water also has its benefits.
It reduces stress – A warm bath or a hot shower can help reduce stress. It helps promote relaxation. Stress and anxiety are some of the most common causes of erectile dysfunction. The relaxing effects of hot water might help improve your sexual functions and avoid erectile dysfunction.
It helps muscles relax – Warm water helps the muscles relax and relieves tension. When your muscles are free from tension, you are more comfortable with your movements and this might improve your sexual performance.
It can help relieve pain – Hot water can help relieve pain in your pelvic area, thighs, and lower back. This is why a hot water bottle or hot compress is essential for those living with chronic pain. If you have chronic pain, the pain relief that hot water offers might help make sexual activities more enjoyable.
How to avoid erectile dysfunction due to hot water
Although claims of erectile dysfunction due to hot water might be anecdotal in nature, there is no harm in taking precautions. Here are some things you can do to avoid ED because of hot water.
Avoid prolonged exposure – There is no harm in taking a hot shower or soaking in a hot tub but do not overdo it. Limit your time on your hot tub to between 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how hot the water is.
Adjust water temperature – Turn the temperature of your shower to moderate heat before taking a shower. A scalding hot shower might be your thing but it might have negative effects on your sexual functions.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle – A healthy lifestyle is still your best defence against erectile dysfunction. Eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly. Avoid smoking and limit your alcohol intake. A healthy lifestyle can help reduce stress. It can also help you maintain an ideal weight and avoid other health issues that might lead to ED, like diabetes and hypertension.
Consult an Expert in Erectile Dysfunction
If you suspect that you’re experiencing ED due to prolonged exposure to hot water or heat in genetal, don’t hesitate to consult one of our ED specialists at the Men’s Health Clinic (MHC).
MHC is a telehealth clinic that has been providing custom treatment for ED for more than 13 years and has helped hundreds of thousands of men worldwide. By working closely with our specialists, you’ll receive a treatment plan designed specifically for you, as we take into account your medical history, preferences, and any underlying conditions.
Our telehealth platform also ensures convenience and privacy — allowing you to seek help from the comfort of your home or office. With thorough assessments and ongoing support from our team, you can navigate your journey towards improved sexual health with confidence.
Conclusion
Can hot water cause erectile dysfunction? Yes, it can indirectly cause erectile dysfunction. It can cause nerve damage to the muscles of your penis and pelvic area. It can also temporarily cause your blood pressure to drop and make it challenging to achieve an erection. However, keep in mind that most cases of erectile dysfunction are caused by known risk factors such as psychological issues, medical issues, aging, and injuries. If you have erectile dysfunction, the best thing to do is consult a licensed doctor immediately. MHC’s doctor can help pinpoint the source of your ED and recommend a custom treatment that will help you get back in the game. Book an appointment with MHC now!
