What should I do to avoid getting an erection during a massage?

Dear Stressed, 

A massage can definitely loosen tense muscles, but it can be hard (no pun intended) to relax if you’re stiffening up. Penises often have a mind of their own, and erections can happen for all sorts of reasons—sexual or not. While the idea of lying on a massage table with a raised flag might feel mortifying, there’s nothing to be embarrassed about. Most professional massage therapists will likely understand that erections are a common physical response to deep relaxation and will do their best to put you at ease.  

Do erections only happen when you’re sexually aroused? 

People often associate erections with sexual arousal, but erections can happen for a variety of reasons. Erections can occur when something makes you think about sex or turns you on, but they can also occur spontaneously when you’re sleeping or when something touches the genital region. Physical contact or the feeling of clothing brushing against skin can be enough to cause an erection.  

Is it common to get an erection during a massage? 

You may not be a happy camper if you find yourself with a pitched tent on the massage table. But don’t worry—it's not an uncommon reaction. During a massage, the combination of physical touch and deep breathing relaxes your body. It activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for “rest and digest” body functions such as slowing the heart rate, digestion, and yes—arousal.  That’s why some people may fall asleep, pass gas, or get an erection when they’re deeply relaxed during a massage.  

What should you do if you get an erection during a massage? 

While you may feel awkward or embarrassed, there’s no need to worry. Regardless of their gender, massage therapists are professionals. They’ll likely understand that erections can happen due to relaxation and touch, and may ignore it. If they notice, they may reassure you that it’s a common and natural reaction to deep relaxation. It’s also possible that they use sheets or towels to keep you covered and continue with the massage.  

If you need a break, you can always ask them to pause or stop the session to give you a moment to gather yourself. The massage therapist may even offer to do this if they notice that you’re uncomfortable. You could also request an extra blanket or towel to cover up. Sometimes, focusing on something else, such as counting backwards from one thousand in sevens, or doing breathing exercises may help take your mind off anything that could be contributing to the erection. If all else fails, take heart in knowing that most erections only last for a few minutes and will eventually go away on their own.  

How can you avoid getting an erection during a massage? 

While erections can be unpredictable, there are some strategies you can use to reduce the risk of an unwanted hard-on during a massage. These include: 

• Wearing briefs or a men’s bikini bathing suit, which may provide more support than boxers
• Requesting a blanket in advance for the added weight
• Requesting to keep your clothes on
• Masturbating before a massage session
• Choosing a massage that focuses only on certain parts of the body, such as the head or shoulders
• Asking the massage therapist to avoid certain parts of your body that are sensitive  

The bottom line is—don't stress it! Erections are part of your body’s natural response to relaxation and a professional massage therapist will likely be gracious and understanding.  

Hope this helps ease the tension,