He Wants to Try Cold Showers for Erectile Dysfunction—Is It Safe?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) can be stressful for both partners. You may have heard that cold showers could help improve erections by “boosting” blood flow or testosterone. But does science back this up? And is it safe for him to try? Let’s break it down in clear, simple terms.

What Are Cold Showers—and Why Consider Them?

A cold shower usually means water below 20 °C (68 °F). Some people tout them for:

• Increasing alertness
• Improving mood
• Reducing muscle soreness

On social media, you might see claims that cold showers can boost testosterone or blood flow to help ED. Before he hops in, here’s what the research and guidelines say.

How Cold Affects Blood Vessels

A key study by Johnson and Kellogg (2006) explored how cold skin exposure changes circulation:

• Immediate vasoconstriction: Cold makes small blood vessels in the skin tighten, reducing blood flow to the surface.
• Blood pressure rise: As vessels constrict, the heart works harder, briefly raising blood pressure.
• Afterdrop effect: Core body temperature can continue falling after exiting a cold environment.

Takeaway: In the short term, cold actually decreases blood flow to the skin and extremities. That’s the opposite of what we want for an erection, which relies on increased blood flow to the penis.

Evidence on Cold Showers for ED

Lack of Clinical Support

The European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines on erectile dysfunction (2016) evaluate proven treatments—such as lifestyle changes, oral medications (PDE-5 inhibitors), vacuum devices, and counseling. Cold water therapy is not listed among recommended interventions for ED. There are no high-quality studies showing that cold showers improve erectile function.

Possible Downsides

• Temporary numbness: Cold can reduce sensation in genital tissue.
• Cardiovascular stress: Sudden cold exposure may trigger a spike in heart rate and blood pressure—potentially risky for men with heart disease.
• Discomfort: Uncomfortable temperatures may increase anxiety or distract from relaxation, making arousal harder.

Who Should Be Cautious?

While a healthy man might handle a quick cool rinse without serious harm, certain conditions raise concern:

• Heart or circulation issues: Men with known coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, or uncontrolled hypertension could experience undue stress on the heart.
• Cirrhosis or advanced liver disease: According to D’Amico et al. (2006), patients with cirrhosis often have fragile circulatory balance. Sudden cold-induced vasoconstriction could worsen complications like fluid shifts or blood pressure instability.
• Raynaud’s phenomenon: This condition causes extreme vessel constriction in response to cold, leading to pain or tissue damage.

If he has any serious health issues, suggest he do a free, online symptom check for and follow up with a doctor before experimenting.

Safer, Evidence-Based Approaches to ED

Rather than relying on cold showers, these lifestyle and medical options have proven benefits:

• Lifestyle Changes

• Regular aerobic exercise (e.g., brisk walking, cycling)
• Weight loss if overweight
• Smoking cessation and limiting alcohol
• Healthy diet (Mediterranean-style)

• Medications

• PDE-5 inhibitors (sildenafil, tadalafil, etc.) are first-line per EAU guidelines.
• Works in 70–80% of men without major side effects when used correctly.

• Counseling and Therapy

• Psychological factors (anxiety, relationship stress) play a big role.
• Sex therapy or couples counseling can improve communication and reduce performance anxiety.

• Devices and Procedures

• Vacuum erection devices
• Penile injections or suppositories
• In select cases, penile implants

If He Still Wants to Try Cold Showers

If he’s curious and otherwise healthy, keep the following in mind:

• Keep it brief: A 30- to 60-second rinse at the end of a normal warm shower.
• Moderate temperature: Don’t go straight to ice-cold—start with mildly cool water (around 20 °C).
• Watch for symptoms: Dizziness, chest pain, or extreme shivering are signs to stop immediately.
• Combine with warm-up: A warm shower beforehand can help avoid shock.
• Focus on relaxation: Cold therapy is not a substitute for proper arousal techniques.

When to Speak to a Doctor

ED can signal underlying health problems—cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hormonal imbalances, or neurological issues. Encourage him to speak up if he experiences:

• Sudden onset of ED
• Painful erections or persistent morning erections
• Other symptoms like chest discomfort, shortness of breath, or leg swelling

A healthcare provider will:

• Review his medical history
• Perform a physical exam and possibly blood tests
• Recommend tailored treatments based on cause and overall health

Bottom Line

• Cold showers do not improve blood flow to the penis; they cause vasoconstriction.
• There’s no clinical evidence supporting cold showers for ED in major guidelines.
• For most men, safe, effective ED treatments include lifestyle changes, proven medications, and counseling.
• Men with heart disease, cirrhosis, or circulatory disorders should avoid sudden cold exposure.
• If he’s set on trying it, keep it short, mild, and watch for warning signs.

Above all, remind him (and yourself) that ED is common and treatable. Encourage him to do a free, online symptom check for and to speak to a doctor about any concerns—especially if symptoms could signal something serious. A healthcare professional can help him find the safest, most effective path to better sexual health.