Frequent Masturbation: Is It Normal and How to Manage It?

Frequent masturbation?

Hello, doctor.
I started masturbating since the fourth grade, but it was just crossing my legs, contracting my abdomen, and holding my breath occasionally.
If I did it too often, I would restrain myself.
However, this year, I find myself wanting to masturbate almost every day, especially after starting high school.
During the weekdays, I am busy and don't have time, but my mind keeps thinking about sexual things.
On weekends, I think about masturbation all day.
Even after doing it, I still feel unsatisfied.
Is this normal? How can I control it? Also, I read online that excessive masturbation can cause darkening of certain areas; is that true? Thank you, doctor.

Emma, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/11/28

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, based on your description of symptoms, there are no specific abnormalities noted.
If these symptoms are affecting your daily life, I recommend consulting a gynecologist for further evaluation and examination.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Zhang.

Reply Date: 2015/11/28

More Info

Masturbation is a common behavior that many individuals engage in, and it can vary significantly in frequency and intensity from person to person. Your experience of starting masturbation at a young age and noticing an increase in frequency during high school is not unusual. Adolescence is a time of significant hormonal changes, which can lead to heightened sexual urges and fantasies.
From a medical standpoint, masturbation is generally considered a normal part of human sexuality. It can serve various purposes, including sexual pleasure, stress relief, and exploration of one’s body. However, when it begins to interfere with daily life, responsibilities, or personal relationships, it may be worth examining the underlying reasons for this behavior and considering strategies for moderation.

Understanding Your Behavior
1. Frequency and Compulsion: You mentioned that you feel compelled to masturbate almost daily and that thoughts about it occupy your mind frequently. This could indicate a few things:
- Increased Sexual Drive: As mentioned, adolescence can lead to increased sexual thoughts and urges due to hormonal changes.

- Coping Mechanism: Sometimes, individuals use masturbation as a way to cope with stress, anxiety, or boredom. If you find that you are using it to escape from negative feelings or situations, it might be helpful to explore other coping strategies.

2. Physical Concerns: Regarding your concern about skin darkening due to excessive masturbation, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. Skin changes can occur for various reasons, including friction, but they are not directly caused by masturbation itself. If you notice any significant changes in your skin, it would be wise to consult a dermatologist.

Strategies for Management
If you feel that your masturbation habits are excessive or interfering with your life, here are some strategies you might consider:
1. Set Limits: Establish a personal guideline for how often you want to engage in masturbation. This could be a specific number of times per week. Keeping track of your habits can help you become more aware of your patterns.

2. Identify Triggers: Pay attention to what prompts your desire to masturbate. Is it boredom, stress, or specific situations? Understanding your triggers can help you find alternative activities to engage in when those feelings arise.

3. Engage in Other Activities: Find hobbies or activities that can occupy your mind and body. Physical exercise, creative outlets, or social interactions can be great distractions and can also improve your overall well-being.

4. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can help reduce anxiety and stress, which may, in turn, reduce the urge to masturbate frequently.

5. Seek Professional Help: If you find it challenging to manage your urges on your own, consider speaking with a mental health professional. They can provide support and strategies tailored to your specific situation.

6. Educate Yourself: Understanding more about sexual health and normal sexual behavior can help normalize your experiences and reduce any feelings of shame or guilt associated with masturbation.

Conclusion
In summary, masturbation is a normal behavior, but if it becomes compulsive or interferes with your daily life, it may be worth exploring ways to manage it. Remember that sexual health is an important aspect of overall well-being, and seeking guidance from a healthcare professional can provide you with the support you need. It’s essential to approach this topic without shame and to understand that many people experience similar feelings and behaviors.

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