the Effects of Masturbation on Sexual Health and Performance

Q: the Effects of Masturbation on Sexual Health and Performance

Dandan： Hello, masturbation is like DIY; it's all about doing it yourself and being in control. <br>In other words, it's completely in your hands, and there are no strict guidelines or methods to follow. <br>There is no evidence to suggest that masturbation affects future sexual

Masturbation

1.
Doctor, I would like to ask you: I usually masturbate by stimulating the glans with my hand, but I often spend several hours doing this.
When I feel close to ejaculation, I stop stimulating and wait a few minutes before continuing.
It seems like others finish much quicker (within a few minutes).
Will this cause my penis to become easily fatigued?
2.
Every time I use the computer, I feel the urge to look at adult images or videos, which leads me to want to masturbate.
It seems to have become a habit due to this long-term behavior.
I really want to quit because I feel my condition is not as good as it used to be.
Could you please give me some advice?
3.
I notice that after I get an erection from manual stimulation, if I don't continue stimulating, it goes away quite easily.
Is this related to attention? Is there a standard for actual sexual intercourse? If I change positions and lose my erection, is that considered normal? Or should I remain erect from penetration until ejaculation for it to be considered normal? Thank you, doctor.

Dan Dan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/03/18

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Dandan: Hello, masturbation is like DIY; it's all about doing it yourself and being in control.
In other words, it's completely in your hands, and there are no strict guidelines or methods to follow.
There is no evidence to suggest that masturbation affects future sexual function.
However, if one becomes overly immersed in it for an extended period, it can indeed impact future social interactions, especially with friends of the opposite sex.
I recommend that you avoid staying indoors and engage in outdoor activities like playing sports or hiking.
Reducing the opportunities to be alone at home should help you gradually break free from the DIY predicament.
Sincerely, Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of Urology, Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2006/03/18

More Info

Masturbation is a natural and common behavior that many individuals engage in for various reasons, including sexual pleasure, stress relief, and exploration of one's own body. However, it can also raise questions about its effects on sexual health and performance, especially when habits become compulsive or interfere with daily life. Let's address your concerns one by one.

1. Duration and Frequency of Masturbation: You mentioned that you often masturbate for several hours, using manual stimulation of the glans (the head of the penis). While masturbation itself is not harmful, excessive duration can lead to temporary sensitivity or fatigue in the penis, which might make it feel less responsive over time. This phenomenon is sometimes referred to as "sexual fatigue." If you find that you are taking longer to reach orgasm or that your erections are less firm after prolonged stimulation, it may be beneficial to moderate the duration of your sessions. Engaging in shorter, more focused sessions may help maintain sensitivity and improve overall sexual performance.

2. Compulsive Behavior and Viewing Adult Content: You expressed concern about your habitual viewing of adult content and its impact on your sexual health. This behavior can lead to unrealistic expectations regarding sexual performance and may desensitize you to sexual stimuli. If you feel that this habit is affecting your sexual function or your ability to enjoy intimate relationships, it may be helpful to consider reducing your consumption of adult material. Strategies such as setting limits on screen time, finding alternative activities to engage in, or seeking support from a therapist specializing in sexual health can be beneficial. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one approach that can help address compulsive behaviors and improve your relationship with sexuality.

3. Erection and Attention: You noted that when you achieve an erection but do not continue stimulation, it tends to subside easily. This is a normal physiological response. Erection is influenced by both physical stimulation and psychological factors, including attention and arousal. If you are distracted or your focus shifts, it can lead to a decrease in arousal and, consequently, a loss of erection. In sexual situations, it is common for erections to fluctuate based on various factors, including position changes, emotional connection, and physical stimulation. There is no strict standard for how long an erection should last during intercourse, as individual experiences can vary widely. It is normal for erections to soften temporarily during sex, especially if there is a change in stimulation or focus.

In conclusion, masturbation is a normal part of sexual health, but moderation is key to maintaining sensitivity and performance. If you find that your habits are causing distress or impacting your sexual relationships, consider seeking professional guidance. A healthcare provider or therapist can offer personalized advice and support tailored to your specific situation. Remember, sexual health is an important aspect of overall well-being, and addressing any concerns you have is a positive step toward achieving a fulfilling sexual life.

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