Losing the erection after the first ejaculation is normal. After ejaculation there is a natural period when a new erection does not come easily; it varies between men and gets longer with age. The real problem is losing the erection before ejaculation, or very quick ejaculation followed by loss of erection.
Medically reviewed by Prof. Dr. Samir Ahmed Al-Samarrai, consultant urologist. Last reviewed:
What happens after ejaculation?
After ejaculation blood leaves the penis and the erection fades, followed by a period when a new erection or a second ejaculation is harder. This period:
- Is usually short in young men and longer with age.
- Varies with tiredness, sleep, stress and alcohol.
- Does not mean erectile dysfunction.
Why is the second erection weaker or the second ejaculation delayed?
It is normal for a second erection to need more stimulation and for the second ejaculation to take longer, so do not compare the second time with the first or treat it as a sign of disease.
When should you see a doctor?
- Losing the erection before ejaculation repeatedly, a sign of erectile dysfunction.
- Very quick ejaculation almost always before penetration or within about a minute, with distress. Read about normal time to ejaculation.
- Both problems together, as erectile dysfunction can make a man ejaculate quickly. Read about erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation together.
- Low desire or absent morning erections.
Simple tips
- Take time to rest between times without pressure or rushing.
- Enough sleep and avoiding alcohol and smoking help performance.
- Do not take tablets of unknown origin to shorten this period; any medicine should be used after a medical assessment.
Related topics
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal not to get an erection right after ejaculation?
Yes. After ejaculation there is a normal period when a new erection does not come easily. Its length varies between men and gets longer with age.
Why does the second ejaculation take longer?
This is common and normal; the body usually needs more stimulation to reach a second ejaculation, and it does not mean there is a disease.
When is losing an erection a problem?
When the erection repeatedly fades before ejaculation and before sex is finished, or when ejaculation is very quick and is followed by loss of erection. That deserves a medical assessment.
Sources
Book a consultation
Prof. Al-Samarrai and Dr. Amer Mousa assess erectile and ejaculation problems at Prof. Al-Samarrai Medical Center, Dubai Healthcare City. Medical consultations are confidential.
This information is for health education and does not replace a medical examination. See our medical content policy.