Post-Masturbation Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Advice

Discomfort after masturbation?

In simple terms, after masturbation, there is a persistent feeling of swelling and pain that develops a few days later.
Immediately after masturbation, there are no noticeable abnormalities, but over the next few days, the intensity of the discomfort gradually increases, peaking around one to two days later.
This entire process lasts about a week, until the sensation of swelling and pain slowly fades away, leaving a feeling as if something is stretching the urethra.
There is a sensation of urgency to urinate, but it is difficult to do so, especially within about 20 minutes after using the restroom, when discomfort is particularly pronounced.
However, after approximately 20 minutes, the discomfort gradually subsides.
This cycle repeats itself after each restroom visit.
When gently pressed, the area does not feel particularly painful, and the location is roughly the width of one or two fingers behind the glans and lower down.
There appear to be no visible abnormalities, and I do not have complex social relationships (I am quite introverted).
This situation has not occurred before; it started happening last year and has since recurred in a cycle of natural recovery and relapse.
I have concluded that this tends to happen after one or two consecutive days of masturbation.
I would like to inquire whether this is serious and if I should seek medical examination.

you dian dan xin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/01/23

Dr. Cai Zhuorong reply Urology

If your discomfort is clearly related to masturbation, you may try to abstain for one to two weeks and then reassess.

Reply Date: 2021/01/23

More Info

Understanding post-masturbation discomfort can be quite complex, as it encompasses various physiological and psychological factors. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing a pattern of discomfort that arises a day or two after masturbation, characterized by a sensation of fullness or pressure in the urethral area, which intensifies over a week before gradually subsiding.
Firstly, it’s important to recognize that some degree of discomfort after masturbation can be normal, especially if it is frequent or vigorous. However, the specific symptoms you describe—such as a feeling of something being "stretched" in the urethra, a sense of urgency to urinate without being able to, and the cyclical nature of the discomfort—may warrant further investigation.

Potential Causes of Your Symptoms
1. Urethritis: This is an inflammation of the urethra, which can be caused by infections (bacterial or viral) or irritation. If you have been engaging in activities that could introduce bacteria into the urethra, this could be a possibility.

2. Prostatitis: Inflammation of the prostate gland can lead to discomfort in the pelvic region, including the urethra. Symptoms can include pain during urination, difficulty urinating, and discomfort after ejaculation.

3. Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: Tension or dysfunction in the pelvic floor muscles can lead to discomfort and a sensation of fullness. This can be exacerbated by repetitive activities, including masturbation.

4. Overstimulation: Frequent masturbation, especially if done vigorously, can lead to temporary swelling or irritation of the tissues involved, which may explain the delayed onset of discomfort.

5. Psychological Factors: Anxiety or stress related to sexual activity can also manifest as physical discomfort. If you are feeling anxious about your sexual health or experiences, this could contribute to your symptoms.

When to Seek Medical Advice
Given that your symptoms have persisted for several months and seem to follow a specific pattern, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Here are some indicators that you should seek medical advice:
- Duration and Frequency: If the discomfort continues to occur regularly and affects your quality of life, it’s important to get it checked out.

- Severity of Symptoms: If the pain becomes severe or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, chills, or unusual discharge, you should seek immediate medical attention.

- Changes in Symptoms: If you notice any changes in the nature of your symptoms, such as increased pain, changes in urination patterns, or any new symptoms, these are also reasons to consult a doctor.

- Psychological Impact: If the discomfort is causing you significant anxiety or distress, discussing it with a healthcare provider can help address both the physical and psychological aspects.

What to Expect During a Medical Consultation
When you visit a healthcare provider, they will likely ask about your symptoms in detail, including their onset, duration, and any associated factors. They may perform a physical examination and possibly recommend tests such as urine analysis or imaging studies to rule out infections or other underlying conditions.

Conclusion
While post-masturbation discomfort can sometimes be benign, the specific symptoms you describe suggest that it would be prudent to seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can provide a thorough evaluation and help determine the underlying cause of your discomfort, as well as recommend appropriate treatment options. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.

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