I know people sometimes avoid getting a massage because they fear they MIGHT get an erection and it kinda makes me sad that this fear could be keeping someone who could really benefit from the therapeutic benefits of massage. so, let’s go ahead and talk about it like adults.
1) Erections do not happen in massage as often as most men fear and most women suspect.
2) For men, the physiological response to increased circulation and something that feels good can include an erection. I am not going to demonize someone for how their body is wired. This is all assuming the client maintains professional boundaries in the situation, of course.
3) IF someone gets an erection during a massage, I want to make it clear – I will not do ANYTHING about it.
4) IF someone gets an erection in session, I ignore it. Completely. If the client feels more comfortable ignoring it as well, I play along. If the client prefers to address it, we can acknowledge it in a professional and polite way.
5) I might be the expert in the room, but you are the expert of your body. If you would rather end the session (for any reason), end the session. No hard feelings (that’s what she said, hehe…)
I hope this helps someone who might have been avoiding getting a massage feel more educated and confident about the situation. I have learned that most guys who have this concern feel more comfortable knowing this as the start of the session. I know this can be a difficult conversation, but addressing it directly and professionally seems to help. or at least that’s my observation in my experience. Don’t hesitate to have this conversation with your therapist.
I hope this was helpful to anyone who wants a massage, but has been avoiding it because of this concern.
Be well, friends
Donna