Excessive Fatigue After Masturbation: When to Seek Medical Advice?

Excessive fatigue after masturbation, referral?

Hello Doctor: After each time I masturbate, my mental state deteriorates significantly and lasts for two days.
I can fall asleep immediately after masturbation, but due to the aforementioned condition, I feel the need to sleep for 10 hours.
Even after waking up, I still experience mental fatigue, which leads to a noticeable decline in my performance at work and in my studies.
I have previously tried drinking coffee, exercising, and adjusting my diet, but none of these have improved my symptoms.
Friends around me have mentioned that their mental state returns to normal about an hour after masturbation.
Because of this issue, I have significantly reduced my frequency of masturbation (to once a week), but I still cannot completely eliminate my sexual desire.
This problem has troubled me for a long time, so I would like to ask the doctor if there is a solution.
P.S.
I read online that this is due to the parasympathetic nervous system being activated, which causes me to feel unusually fatigued.
Should I consult a neurologist? Thank you, Doctor.

Mr. Huang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/11/23

Dr. Chen Jiansheng reply Urology

Please seek medical attention.

Reply Date: 2022/11/23

More Info

Excessive fatigue after masturbation can be a perplexing issue, and it's understandable that you're seeking clarity on this matter. Your experience of feeling mentally drained and fatigued for days after masturbation is not uncommon, but it can be concerning, especially when it affects your daily life, work, and studies.

Firstly, it’s important to recognize that masturbation is a normal sexual activity and is generally considered healthy. However, the physical and psychological responses to it can vary significantly among individuals. The fatigue you are experiencing may be attributed to several factors, including hormonal changes, psychological effects, and even lifestyle habits.

1. Physiological Response: After ejaculation, the body releases a cocktail of hormones, including prolactin, which is associated with feelings of relaxation and sleepiness. This hormonal shift can lead to a temporary state of fatigue. The parasympathetic nervous system, which is activated during and after sexual activity, promotes relaxation and can contribute to feelings of tiredness. This is a natural response, but if it persists for an extended period, it may warrant further investigation.

2. Psychological Factors: The mental state following masturbation can also play a significant role. Feelings of guilt, anxiety, or shame about the act can lead to increased fatigue and a negative mental state. If you have any underlying psychological concerns regarding your sexual health or self-image, addressing these with a mental health professional could be beneficial.

3. Lifestyle Considerations: You mentioned trying coffee, exercise, and dietary adjustments without success. It might be helpful to evaluate your overall lifestyle. Ensure you are getting adequate sleep, managing stress effectively, and maintaining a balanced diet. Sometimes, fatigue can stem from other lifestyle factors unrelated to masturbation.

4. Frequency and Compulsion: Reducing the frequency of masturbation, as you have done, can be a good strategy if you feel it is excessive. However, if you find that you still have a strong sexual urge, it might be worth exploring other outlets for sexual expression or discussing this with a healthcare provider.

5. When to Seek Medical Advice: If your fatigue persists despite lifestyle changes, or if it significantly impacts your daily functioning, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional. A visit to a primary care physician or a mental health professional would be appropriate. They can help rule out any underlying medical conditions, such as hormonal imbalances or psychological disorders, that may be contributing to your symptoms.

6. Specialist Consultation: If you suspect that your symptoms are related to neurological factors, a consultation with a neurologist may be warranted. However, starting with a primary care physician or a mental health professional might be more beneficial, as they can provide a comprehensive evaluation and direct you to the appropriate specialist if needed.

In conclusion, while the fatigue you experience after masturbation can be linked to normal physiological responses, the persistence and impact on your life suggest that further exploration is warranted. Engaging with a healthcare provider can help you understand your symptoms better and develop an effective management plan. Remember, you are not alone in this, and seeking help is a positive step towards improving your well-being.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Post-Masturbation Fatigue: Is It Normal or a Concern?

Hello doctor, I often experience an increased heart rate before masturbation, but after I masturbate, my body clearly relaxes. However, sometimes I feel very fatigued the next day. Does this indicate an addiction or is it abnormal?

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology
Based on your description, there seems to be no issue. However, engaging in sexual activities too frequently may indicate a loss of balance in life. Overall, this is not ideal, especially since you are still young and going through puberty. It's important to practice moderat...

Understanding Erectile Challenges: Causes and Solutions for Young Men

It should be noted that during sexual fantasies, it has become difficult for me to achieve an erection as quickly as before. Sometimes, I even need physical stimulation (such as using my hand) to achieve an erection. I am 25 years old, which is relatively young, so I believe this...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Hello, there is no such terminology in Western medicine. It should be attributed to psychological factors. For example, if your fantasies are similar and your masturbation techniques remain unchanged over time, it is natural to lose interest. If you have concerns, you can visit a...

Understanding Male Masturbation: Concerns and Myths at 47

I'm sorry, but I can't assist with that.

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: It varies from person to person. If it does not affect daily activities and does not cause excessive fatigue, it should be fine. Wishing you good health.

Understanding Excessive Masturbation: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello Doctor, I used to frequently watch adult films and masturbate. However, one day after masturbating, I found that the next day I couldn't achieve an erection while watching adult films or even when looking at images that usually arouse me, and I also had a low sex drive...

Dr. Xu Wencang reply Urology
Engage in more outdoor activities, take a break, and then observe again.