What are the potential side effects of excessive masturbation?
Hello, doctor.
I have been really worried and anxious lately.
I am only 16 years old and in the third year of junior high school.
I have a lot of pressure because I am preparing for the entrance exam.
In the past few days, I have been masturbating before going to bed.
Since I started masturbating in the first year of junior high, I have done it about 2 to 3 times a month, except during the summer vacation when it was more frequent, about 3 times a week.
However, in the last five days, due to the immense pressure, I have masturbated almost 4 times, roughly once every 1 to 2 days.
I don’t do it more than once a day.
Is this frequency considered excessive for my age? I have read online that 2 to 3 times a month is normal, but I am concerned about the nearly 4 times in the past five days.
Will this lead to any long-term effects, such as problems with my prostate, bladder, or glans in the future? I am really worried about getting sick, and I don’t dare to talk to my family about it, so I am seeking help here.
Additionally, I apologize for asking another question, but I noticed a lump at the tip of my glans while showering today.
Isn’t that something that only occurs during an erection? However, I was not erect at that time.
Am I just overthinking it? I have many questions.
Thank you!
Kevin Garnett, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/05/11
Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Kevin: From the perspective of Western medicine, as long as one can achieve an erection, the frequency of ejaculation does not have a significant impact on the body.
However, Traditional Chinese Medicine has a different viewpoint, which will not be discussed here.
The lump on the glans needs to be visually examined for a proper diagnosis.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can further discuss and research together.
This response is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of Urology, Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.
Reply Date: 2010/05/11
More Info
It's completely normal to have concerns about masturbation, especially during your teenage years when you're experiencing a lot of changes both physically and emotionally. Let's break down your questions and worries regarding excessive masturbation and its potential effects.
Firstly, masturbation is a natural behavior that many teenagers engage in. It can serve as a way to relieve stress, explore one's body, and understand sexual feelings. The frequency of masturbation varies widely among individuals. While you mentioned that you typically masturbate 2 to 3 times a month, you've recently increased that frequency due to stress. This is not uncommon, especially during high-pressure situations like preparing for exams.
From a medical standpoint, masturbation in moderation is generally considered safe and does not lead to any long-term health issues. The concerns about potential negative effects on the prostate, bladder, or other urinary organs are largely unfounded when it comes to normal masturbation habits. Research indicates that regular ejaculation, whether through masturbation or sexual intercourse, may even have protective benefits for prostate health.
Regarding your specific concern about the frequency of masturbation, doing it 4 times in 5 days, especially under stress, is not necessarily harmful. The key is to listen to your body and ensure that it doesn't interfere with your daily life, responsibilities, or mental health. If you find that your habits are causing you distress or impacting your ability to focus on your studies, it might be worth considering other stress-relief techniques, such as exercise, meditation, or talking to someone about your feelings.
As for the physical changes you're noticing, such as the lump on the head of your penis, it's important to remember that the penis can have various normal anatomical features, and sometimes what you perceive as unusual may not be a cause for concern. However, if you notice persistent changes, discomfort, or if the lump does not go away, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation. They can provide reassurance and address any potential issues.
In summary, masturbation is a normal part of development, and while it's good to be mindful of your habits, occasional increases in frequency, especially during stressful times, are typically not a cause for alarm. If you continue to have concerns or if your habits begin to interfere with your life, consider reaching out to a trusted adult or a healthcare provider for guidance. Remember, you're not alone in this, and seeking help is a sign of strength.
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