Does the absence of morning erections in the morning indicate kidney deficiency?

Apr 02, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

In the past few months, I haven't experienced morning erections anymore. I often feel physically fatigued and started to wonder: could the absence of morning erections be caused by kidney deficiency?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong

In general, the absence of morning erections in the morning may be caused by kidney deficiency, but it could also be caused by other factors.

Morning erection is a physiological phenomenon in males where the penis spontaneously erects unconsciously in the early morning. When kidney deficiency occurs, functions of multiple systems in the body, including the reproductive and urinary systems, may be affected. This may lead to a decrease or disappearance of morning erections, and may also be accompanied by symptoms such as soreness and weakness in the waist and knees, fatigue, dizziness, tinnitus, and reduced sexual function.

However, the absence of morning erections does not necessarily indicate kidney deficiency. For example, long-term mental stress, anxiety, depression, and other negative emotions can affect the neuroendocrine system and thereby suppress morning erections. Poor sleep quality can also impact hormone secretion and subsequently affect morning erections. As men age, their sexual function gradually declines, and the frequency of morning erections may decrease. If the absence of morning erections is accompanied by other sexual dysfunctions, such as difficulty achieving erection or decreased libido, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment.

In daily life, it is recommended to improve lifestyle habits, maintain healthy eating habits, engage in moderate exercise, and avoid unhealthy habits, which can help maintain sexual function and overall health.