Masturbation and Its Effects on Morning Erections - Urology

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Because masturbation rarely leads to nocturnal emissions?


Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask: I am currently in the second year of junior high school and have had a habit of masturbation since the sixth grade, approximately every two days.
Recently, I am unsure if it is due to my sleep schedule (about 7 hours; from 11:30 PM to 6:30 AM; I usually need 9 hours of sleep to feel good) that the frequency of morning erections has gradually decreased.

1.
Is starting a masturbation habit in the sixth grade too early or too frequent, and could it be harmful?
2.
I am not sure if my regular masturbation habit is the reason I rarely experience nocturnal emissions, only about once a year.
Is there a need for abstinence? Is this normal? Is expelling semen through nocturnal emissions healthier?
3.
If I masturbate the night before a weekday, I do not have an erection the next morning, but I do experience morning erections on weekends when I have had enough sleep.
Is there something wrong with my penis? (I have not confirmed if I have erections while sleeping on weekdays.)
4.
Is it abnormal to masturbate? Thank you, doctor, for taking the time to answer!

xuesheng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/06/12

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology


Hello: I am currently in the second year of junior high school.
I have had a habit of masturbation since the sixth grade, approximately every two days.
However, recently I have noticed a decrease in morning erections, which I am unsure is related to my sleep duration (about 7 hours; from 11:30 PM to 6:30 AM; I usually feel better with 9 hours of sleep).

1.
Is starting a masturbation habit in the sixth grade too early or too frequent, and can it be harmful? -- It depends on the individual.

2.
I am not sure if my regular masturbation habit is the reason I rarely experience nocturnal emissions, only about once a year.
Is there a need for abstinence? Is this normal? Is releasing semen through nocturnal emissions healthier? -- Nocturnal emissions are not necessary, so there is no need to worry.

3.
If I masturbate the night before a weekday, I do not experience an erection the next morning, but I do have morning erections on weekends when I get enough sleep.
Is there something wrong with my penis? (I have not confirmed whether I have erections while sleeping on weekdays.) -- There is no direct relationship between morning erections and masturbation.

4.
Is it abnormal to masturbate? -- No, as long as it does not affect your quality of life.

Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/06/12

More Info


Masturbation is a common behavior among adolescents and can be a normal part of sexual development. It is important to understand its effects on the body, particularly regarding morning erections, also known as nocturnal penile tumescence (NPT). Let's address your questions one by one.

1. Is starting masturbation at a young age harmful?
Masturbation is a natural and normal behavior that many people engage in during puberty and adolescence. Starting at a young age, such as in sixth grade, is not uncommon. The frequency of masturbation, such as every two days, is generally considered normal and not harmful. It is essential to understand that masturbation does not cause physical harm or negatively impact sexual health when done in moderation. However, if it interferes with daily activities, responsibilities, or relationships, it might be worth discussing with a healthcare professional.

2. Is it necessary to abstain from masturbation if I rarely experience nocturnal emissions?
Nocturnal emissions, or "wet dreams," are a natural way for the body to release semen, especially during puberty. If you are not experiencing them frequently, it is not necessarily a cause for concern. Masturbation is a personal choice, and there is no medical requirement to abstain unless it is causing distress or interfering with your life. Both masturbation and nocturnal emissions are healthy ways for the body to manage sexual tension. The key is to find a balance that feels right for you.

3. Why do I experience fewer morning erections after masturbating the night before?
Morning erections can be influenced by various factors, including sleep quality, hormonal levels, and sexual activity. If you notice that you have fewer morning erections after masturbating, it could be due to several reasons, including fatigue or hormonal fluctuations. It is also normal for the frequency of morning erections to vary. On weekends, when you have more sleep, your body may have a chance to reset, leading to more frequent morning erections. This does not indicate a problem with your penis; rather, it reflects the natural variations in your body's responses.

4. Is it abnormal to masturbate?
Masturbation is a normal and healthy sexual activity. It is a common way for individuals to explore their bodies, understand their sexual preferences, and relieve sexual tension. Many people masturbate, and it is considered a normal part of sexual development. As long as it does not interfere with your daily life or responsibilities, it is perfectly fine.

In summary, masturbation is a normal part of sexual development, and your experiences are typical for someone your age. If you have concerns about your sexual health or habits, it may be beneficial to speak with a healthcare provider who can provide personalized guidance. Remember that sexual health is an important aspect of overall well-being, and seeking information is a positive step toward understanding your body better.

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