Can Cold Showers Help With Erectile Dysfunction?

April 10, 2024

4 mins

Cold showers have been suggested to have various health benefits, including potential improvements in circulation, immune function, and mood. However, there isn't substantial scientific evidence directly linking cold showers to the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED).

Erectile dysfunction is a complex issue with multiple potential causes, including psychological factors, vascular problems, hormonal imbalances, and neurological disorders. While improving circulation through cold exposure might theoretically have some impact on ED, it's unlikely to be a standalone solution for most cases.

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What are the Benefits of Cold Showers?

While there may not be direct scientific evidence linking cold showers to the treatment of erectile dysfunction, there are some potential indirect benefits that could have a positive impact on ED. Here are some ways cold showers might be beneficial:

Improved circulation

Cold exposure can cause vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels) followed by vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) as the body works to maintain its core temperature.

This process may help improve blood circulation throughout the body – including to the genital area – which is necessary for achieving and maintaining an erection.

Testosterone production

Myths about ice baths and cold showers raising T levels have come and gone. Some of the rationale behind these claims comes from the fact that high temperatures aren’t good for male hormones like testosterone.

But just because it’s true that very hot showers can have a negative effect on testosterone levels, it doesn’t mean the reverse (that cold showers can have a positive effect) is true too.

Boosted mood and energy

Cold showers can provide an invigorating sensation and may boost mood and energy levels. Feeling more energized and positive about oneself may indirectly contribute to better sexual performance and libido.

Stress reduction

Cold exposure triggers the release of endorphins and activates the body's stress response systems. 

Over time, regular exposure to cold showers may help individuals adapt to stress more effectively, potentially reducing the negative impact of stress on sexual function.

Improved immune function

Some research suggests that cold exposure may stimulate the immune system, leading to a stronger immune response. A healthy immune system is important for overall well-being, which can indirectly affect sexual health.

How Long Should Your Cold Shower Be?

The ideal range of time for taking a cold shower is between three and five minutes. The first minute, your body will be shocked from the extreme change in temperature, and you’ll probably not feel very comfortable. 

As you begin to adjust to the cold water, your body will begin to feel energized, more alert, and eventually calm. 

It’s better to take a cold shower for a few minutes every day than to subject yourself to extreme temperatures for extended periods of time. This way, your body will reap the benefits of cold showers daily. 

Who Shouldn’t Take Cold Showers?

For most people, cold showers pose no harm. But those with certain conditions should be cautious about showers with severely cold water, or avoid them altogether. You should avoid taking cold showers if you have the following health conditions: 

• Cold urticaria (cold hives): People with this type of hives develop itchy welts after being in cold water or whenever something cold touches their skin.

• Heart or lung conditions: Cold water narrows the blood vessels, increasing blood pressure and heart rate. This exposure can cause increased strain on the heart in people with heart disease or high blood pressure. It can also cause irregular heartbeats in people with heart issues and pulmonary edema, a condition that causes fluid-filled air sacs in the lungs.

• Raynaud's syndrome: This condition causes the narrowing of blood vessels due to cold exposure or stress, leading to reduced blood flow to certain body parts, especially the fingers and toes. Cold showers can trigger Raynaud's reaction, causing temporary discoloration of the skin (white or blue), followed by redness as blood flow returns. This may be accompanied by sensations of throbbing or tingling. In severe cases, sores may develop in the affected areas.

How Else Can You Treat ED?

While a cold shower a day may help you feel energized, it may not be a practical solution for ED. 

Fortunately, there are other promising treatment options, including medications like PDE5 inhibitors. PDE5 inhibitors are a class of medications that help relax muscles in the penile arteries and promote blood flow, which often leads to an erection.

If you’re looking to get a little help in the bedroom, Rex MD offers meds like Viagra and Cialis – both of which have proven to be highly effective – so you’re sure to perform.

How Else Can You Treat Low Testosterone?

Testosterone doesn’t just affect libido and sexual function. It also plays a role in men’s overall well-being. When treating low testosterone levels, two main approaches are commonly used:

Medications that stimulate testosterone production: One such medication is Clomid (clomiphene citrate), which works by blocking estrogen receptors in the brain. This action increases the production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which in turn stimulate the testicles to produce more testosterone and improve sperm production.

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT): TRT involves administering exogenous testosterone into the body, typically through medication. This synthetic testosterone supplementation raises circulating testosterone levels to within the normal range. By doing so, TRT helps alleviate symptoms associated with low testosterone levels, promoting overall health and well-being.

Both treatment options aim to restore testosterone levels to normal ranges and effectively manage symptoms of low testosterone. However, it's important for individuals to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable treatment approach based on their specific needs and medical history.

With the Rex MD TestoRx program, you’ll have access to testosterone-boosting medications like Clomid or TRT that will help you feel like yourself again. 

To find out if the program is right for you, just answer a few questions about your symptoms and medical history. Then, you’ll be able to schedule a virtual call with the Rex MD care team.

Your provider will order lab work for you and determine if you’re eligible for Clomid or TRT based on your testosterone levels.