Numerous studies have linked healthy sleep to healthy sex.
Sleep disorders are a leading cause of sexual problems.
Sleep apnea causes you to stop breathing when you are sleeping.
Somsak Bumroongwong / EyeEm / Getty Images
Testosterone production rises when you fall asleep and peaks duringrapid eye movement (REM) sleep.
What Is Sleep Hygiene?
Sleep hygiene is a general term used to refer to all the elements that can promote a healthy rest.
Poor sleep and medical problems like sleep apnea may just make the problem even worse.
Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
There are a number of things that can cause erectile dysfunction.
Like sleep apnea, obesity can be a major contributor to erectile dysfunction.
If you are experiencing symptoms of either condition, talk to your healthcare provider.
You may be asked questions about your personal, family, and sexual health histories.
Beyond that, blood testing may be used to examine the chemical balances in your body.
This can include X-rays and other imaging studies.
Treatment
An accurate diagnosis is the first step toward creating a good treatment plan.
However, when these conditions develop over time, lifestyle choices play a major role.
Summary
Sleep apnea causes you to stop breathing while you sleep.
It not only can disrupt sleep but also affect testosterone production, which can contribute to erectile dysfunction.
Sleep apnea is commonly treated with CPAP, which can help you breathe while you sleep.
Research has shown that it may also help with erectile dysfunction.
Obesity is one reason, and the impact of sleep deficits on testosterone production is another.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the link between testosterone and sleep?
Sleep is a vital part of hormonal balance, and testosterone levels rise during sleep.
Sleep disruptions, sparked by problems like sleep apnea, can lead to a drop in testosterone levels.
Why does lack of sleep cause erectile dysfunction?
As hormone levels drop, testosteronethe male sex hormonecan decrease.
Low levels of testosterone are a primary contributor to erectile problems.
Lack of sleep can also lead to sexual health problems stemming from mood disturbances or relationship problems.
Do CPAP machines help with low testosterone?
CPAP machines have not been shown to have an effect on hormone levels like testosteroneat least not directly.
National Institutes of Health.Symptoms and causes of erectile dysfunction.
Cho JW, Duffy JF.Sleep, Sleep Disorders, and Sexual Dysfunction.World J Mens Health.
MedlinePlus.Aging changes in sleep.
Updated April 10, 2018.
