Erectile Dysfunction: Causes, Effects, and Recovery Tips

Q: Erectile Dysfunction: Causes, Effects, and Recovery Tips

Hello： Excessive masturbation can lead to issues such as decreased sensitivity, poor erectile function, premature ejaculation, and difficulties with normal sexual intercourse. <br>It is advisable to seek medical attention if there is no improvement after a week of rest. <br>Gener

Erectile dysfunction

Could you please clarify what kind of dysfunction excessive masturbation can cause, as you mentioned in your response to #118362? Currently, I am experiencing a lack of sensation when watching adult films or fantasizing about a penis (I cannot achieve an erection automatically); I can only achieve an erection through manual stimulation, and it quickly becomes soft without continuous stimulation.
The hardness and ejaculation time are also different from before.
Is this due to excessive masturbation? I previously tried resting for a week, but there was no significant change.
Is it possible that I did not rest long enough, or could there be other reasons, such as an increased threshold for sexual arousal? This situation has persisted for about six months, during which I have maintained a habit of masturbation.
Should I rest for more than two weeks for it to be effective, or is this condition irreversible? My cholesterol level is above 200, and I have seen a doctor for many years without needing medication.
My blood pressure is around 130/80, and my triglycerides are 126.
Overall, only my cholesterol is elevated, so at my age, it shouldn't be a vascular issue, right? The erectile issues also arose suddenly in the past six months.
Should I continue to observe my condition, or should I consider medication? When you mention resting, does that mean abstaining from masturbation, sexual activity, and watching adult films? I have quite a few questions, so I appreciate your guidance.
Thank you.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/02/02

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: Excessive masturbation can lead to issues such as decreased sensitivity, poor erectile function, premature ejaculation, and difficulties with normal sexual intercourse.
It is advisable to seek medical attention if there is no improvement after a week of rest.
Generally, reducing masturbation may help, but the extent of improvement is difficult to predict, as sexual activity is a complex process influenced by both psychological and physiological factors, which humans may not fully understand even today.
High cholesterol can lead to vascular obstruction, often starting with small blood vessels.
Medication may not be the primary focus; lifestyle habits are more important.
Resting means refraining from masturbation, sexual activity, and watching adult films, which can be more effective.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2018/02/02

More Info

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a complex condition that can arise from a variety of causes, including psychological, physiological, and lifestyle factors. Your concerns about the relationship between excessive masturbation and erectile dysfunction are valid and worth exploring in detail.

Understanding Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction is defined as the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. It can be influenced by numerous factors, including hormonal imbalances, psychological issues, and lifestyle choices. In your case, you mentioned experiencing a lack of sensation and difficulty achieving an erection without manual stimulation, which can be indicative of both psychological and physiological components.

Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
1. Psychological Factors: Anxiety, depression, and stress can significantly impact sexual performance. If you have been preoccupied with your erectile issues, this can create a cycle of anxiety that exacerbates the problem. Overstimulation from excessive pornography consumption can also lead to unrealistic expectations and desensitization, making it difficult to achieve arousal in real-life situations.

2. Physiological Factors: Conditions such as high cholesterol and blood pressure can affect blood flow, which is crucial for achieving an erection. Although your cholesterol levels are elevated, they are not at a level that typically necessitates medication. However, it is essential to monitor these levels and maintain a healthy lifestyle to mitigate potential cardiovascular issues that could contribute to ED.

3. Lifestyle Factors: Excessive masturbation can lead to temporary changes in sexual function. Frequent stimulation may desensitize the body to sexual arousal, making it harder to achieve an erection without direct physical stimulation. This phenomenon is sometimes referred to as "porn-induced erectile dysfunction."

Effects of Excessive Masturbation
Excessive masturbation can lead to a decrease in sexual sensitivity and a potential shift in sexual arousal patterns. If you find that you can only achieve an erection through manual stimulation, it may indicate that your body has become accustomed to a specific type of stimulation, which can be difficult to reverse.

Recovery Tips
1. Abstinence Period: Taking a break from masturbation and sexual activities can help reset your body's arousal mechanisms. While you mentioned trying a week of abstinence without improvement, some individuals may require a longer period—up to two weeks or more—to notice significant changes. During this time, it is advisable to avoid all forms of sexual stimulation, including pornography.

2. Healthy Lifestyle: Focus on maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep. These factors can improve overall blood circulation and hormonal balance, which are crucial for sexual health.

3. Consult a Healthcare Professional: Given your ongoing symptoms and elevated cholesterol levels, it may be beneficial to consult a healthcare provider. They can assess your overall health, conduct necessary tests, and provide tailored advice or treatment options.

4. Psychological Support: If psychological factors are contributing to your ED, consider speaking with a therapist or counselor who specializes in sexual health. They can help address any underlying anxiety or stress that may be affecting your sexual function.

Conclusion
In summary, your experience with erectile dysfunction may be influenced by a combination of psychological and physiological factors, including excessive masturbation. While a break from sexual activities may help, it is essential to adopt a holistic approach that includes lifestyle changes and possibly professional guidance. Monitoring your cholesterol and blood pressure is also crucial, as these factors can impact your sexual health. If symptoms persist, seeking medical advice is recommended to explore further treatment options.

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