Dear Blinky182,

Many guys have trouble maintaining an erection. This tends to be caused by anxiety or nervousness for most guys. "Performance anxiety" is the fear of being unable to maintain an erection. Lack of attraction to a partner, fear or anxiety about having sex, a negative body image, a lack of self-esteem, problems in relationships, and using alcohol or other drugs may contribute to performance anxiety.

Circumcision, however, has no effect on the ability to have an erection.

Some people find that masturbation is a great way for both guys and girls to learn about how they like to be aroused and what is sexually pleasing. Sharing masturbatory experiences with a partner can communicate what makes a person feel good sexually. Being clear about what you like and want can make sex play with a partner more pleasurable.

Rest assured that most guys will experience performance anxiety and be unable to achieve an erection from time to time. It's important that guys and their partners accept this as a normal part of their sex lives and not become so anxious that it makes having sex less pleasurable and more difficult.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.