How To Shorten Your Refractory Period – Guide For Men

One of the biggest downsides of being a man when it comes to sex, is the dreaded refractory period.

This is a time period after orgasming where you are physically unable to get an erection, and your interest in sex diminishes to zero almost instantly. In fact, if you think about it, it’s actually pretty incredible that you can go from incredibly horny to being in a completely different mindset just seconds after orgasming!

Of course, if you want to have sex multiple times, you’ll want your refractory period to be as short as possible.

So, in this article I’ll talk about what causes the refractory period, factors that influence its length, and what you can do to shorten it as much as possible. I’ll also cover what you can do in the meantime to keep things spicy in the bedroom, while you wait to get hard again.

Let’s get started!

What Causes The Refractory Period, Anyway?

Interestingly enough, we know A LOT about how different sexual processes were beneficial to our evolution. However, one thing that we don’t understand all that much is why we have a refractory period at all.

After all, you’d think that the more sex we had, the more likely women would be to get pregnant, right?

Well, we know that we need time for sperm to replenish. The relaxation after an orgasm may also encourage partners to stay and bond, rather than just pursuing more sex, perhaps with someone else.

As for how the changes actually happen so suddenly, it comes down to neurochemistry.

Before and after orgasm, your brain is flooded with different hormones, that affect things like interest in sex, ability to achieve an erection, and even your level of energy.

For example prolactin and serotonin increases feelings of sexual satisfaction and relaxation, while dopamine after ejaculation makes your penis less responsive to stimulation.

It can take some time for hormones to return to their normal levels after orgasm.

Additionally, the autonomic nervous system, which governs involuntary bodily functions, undergoes a shift after orgasm. The sympathetic nervous system, responsible for the “fight or flight” response, is highly active during sexual excitement. Following orgasm, there is a transition to the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation and recovery. This switch can result in temporary erectile dysfunction and a reduced desire for further sexual activity, as the body needs time to reset.

What Factors Make It Longer?

The duration of the refractory period can vary significantly from person to person and is influenced by a variety of factors.

1. Age

One of the most significant factors affecting the refractory period, unfortunately, is age. As men get older, their bodies experience hormonal changes, such as a decrease in testosterone levels. This decline can lead to longer refractory periods, as testosterone plays a key role in sexual arousal and performance. Younger men generally have shorter refractory periods, allowing them to engage in sexual activity more frequently.

Unfortunately guys, this one is pretty unavoidable. Thankfully, there’s still a lot we can do.

2. Hormonal Levels

Hormones are pivotal in regulating sexual function. Elevated levels of prolactin, which surge after ejaculation, can prolong the refractory period. Similarly, lower levels of testosterone can hinder the ability to become aroused again quickly. Conditions that affect hormonal balance, such as hormonal disorders or obesity, can also lead to extended refractory periods.

If your refractory periods are particularly long or you are having other symptoms, it may be worth having your testosterone levels checked.

3. Psychological Factors

Mental health plays a crucial role in sexual function. Anxiety, stress, and depression can impact libido and performance, potentially lengthening the refractory period. A heightened state of arousal or nervousness during sexual encounters can lead to increased tension, making it harder to relax and recover post-orgasm. Conversely, positive emotional states and a comfortable, relaxed environment can help shorten the refractory period.

4. Physical Health

Overall physical health and fitness levels can affect the refractory period as well. Conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity can impair blood flow and hormonal function, making it more challenging to achieve erections and become sexually aroused again quickly. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can help mitigate these issues, promoting better sexual health.

5. Medications

Certain medications can impact sexual function and the refractory period. Antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are known to cause sexual side effects, including prolonged refractory periods. Other medications, such as those for high blood pressure or prostate issues, can also affect sexual performance and recovery time.

There are other classes of antidepressants that are known to not have as intense of effects on sexual performance. One such example is Welbutrin, which is nicknamed the ‘happy, horny, skinny’ pill.

6. Frequency Of Orgasms

How frequently you orgasm may also play a part in the length of your refractory period.

After multiple orgasms in a short period, the body may take longer to recover – in fact, you may notice each subsequent orgasm takes longer and longer.

If you go a long time without ejaculating, it may be easier to do so a second or even third time without waiting as long.

How To Shorten Your Refractory Period

Shortening the refractory period is achievable by making small adjustments to your lifestyle, and doesn’t require drastic intevention. Of course, it does take work, and some people are simply blessed with shorter refractory periods than others. Still, there is a lot you can do!

First and foremost, maintaining a healthy diet is essential. Nutrient-rich foods can enhance overall health and hormonal balance. It goes without saying, but eating healthy improves all aspects of your body, including your sexual performance. Incorporating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into your meals provides the necessary vitamins and minerals that support reproductive health. Specific nutrients, such as zinc and omega-3 fatty acids, are particularly beneficial for hormone production and blood circulation, both of which play crucial roles in sexual function.

Fish oil and zync supplements are only a few cents a day on Amazon, so if you aren’t getting enough through diet, this may be worth considering! Of course, always consult your doctor before starting new supplements.

Equally important to diet is achieving and maintaining a healthy body weight. Excess weight can lead to hormonal imbalances, particularly a decrease in testosterone levels, which is linked to longer refractory periods. Engaging in regular physical activity not only aids in weight management but also improves cardiovascular health, enhances blood flow, and boosts energy levels. Cardio exercises, in particular, are beneficial as they strengthen the heart and improve circulation, ensuring that blood flows effectively during arousal.

Remember that pills like Viagra and Cialis don’t magically make you horny, they just improve bloodflow. There’s a lot you can do to help out, even without these two pills!

Addressing mental health is another vital component. Conditions like depression and anxiety can significantly impact libido and sexual performance. Seeking treatment, whether through therapy, counseling, or medication, can alleviate these symptoms. When you feel mentally well, your body is more likely to respond positively during sexual encounters, reducing the refractory period.

It’s also crucial to tackle any underlying issues that contribute to erectile dysfunction. This can include consulting with a healthcare provider to discuss medical conditions, medications, or lifestyle habits that may be affecting your sexual health. Open communication with partners can also alleviate performance anxiety, fostering a more relaxed environment that can aid recovery after orgasm.

Although I am not a licensed sex therapist, I have done a lot of phone calls with people that they’ve told me have been quite helpful, so don’t hesitate to book a call with me if you’d like to talk about anything on your mind. You can learn more at LewdLexi.com/phone/

If you feel that medication might be the right answer, check out this article to learn more about the differences between Viagra and Cialis.

Next up, avoid excessive alcohol and recreational drugs if possible. I understand alcohol can help you wind down and put you in the mood, but it ain’t doing you any favors when it comes to your refractory period.

Finally, prioritizing cardiovascular health cannot be overstated. Conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes can severely impact sexual function. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider, coupled with a heart-healthy lifestyle, can mitigate these risks. Incorporating activities like walking, jogging, or cycling into your routine not only benefits your heart but also boosts your mood and energy levels.

As you can see, there’s not a whole lot that can be done when it comes to things like hormone levels. A lot of the work is just making it easier to achieve an erection.

So, if you’re having sex a lot or you’re desensitized to sex from excessive porn consumption, consider cutting out these as well.

Want To Go For Round Two? Try This In The Meantime

Although women have a refractory period as well, it’s not really as intense as men’s are – and there is nothing physically preventing us from having sex, even after orgasm.

Therefore, you can keep your sex session going without her losing interest as well, as long as you do it right.

It helps to have a plan in place for what you want to do after you orgasm, and remember that you will get interested in sex again before long, as long as you are patient.

Think about it this way – if you have cum and she hasn’t, why not use this time to try to give her an orgasm as well?

Or, you can transition to other acts that are intimate and romantic. Kissing, cuddling, or making out while you wait for your erection to return can all make excellent choices, while keeping her in the mood for sex.

Finally, if you need to pee or grab a quick snack, there’s no harm in doing so either.

Sometimes, removing yourself from the room for the moment and then returning to see your partner naked, waiting, and ready can be just the change you need to get yourself back in the mood!

Conclusion

I’m pretty sure endless, horny sex that never has to stop is many people’s idea of heaven on Earth. Unfortunately, the refractory period makes this pretty much impossible.

Thankfully, although you cannot eliminate the refractory period entirely, there are things you can do to make it as short as possible. And as long as you know that your interest in sex will return before long, there’s no reason you need to stop after just one orgasm!

~ Lexi