A British doctor has raised concerns that excessive m*sturbation may be contributing to a rise in male health issues. While self-pleas*re in moderation can reduce stress and improve sleep and mood, Dr. Donald Grant, a GP and senior clinical advisor at The Independent Pharmacy, warns that it can become an unhealthy habit, potentially leading to a form of erectile dysfunction.
“There are no strict rules on how often people should masturbate,” Dr. Grant noted, “but when it becomes excessive, it can have negative effects on both s*xual and physical health.”
One of the main issues is the increasing consumption of p*rnography. A recent survey by media regulator Ofcom found that half of UK adults access explicit content online, which Dr. Grant links to the growing cases of porn-induced erectile dysfunction (PIED).
According to the British Association of Urological Surgeons, around 50% of adult men experience some form of erectile dysfunction, often related to conditions like obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes. However, Dr. Grant points to PIED as a lesser-known cause, explaining, “PIED stems from excessive p*rnography use, which can desensitize men to real-life sexual experiences, making it harder to achieve or maintain an erection.”
He added that this desensitization may lead to a decreased interest in real sexual intimacy, as men may begin to prioritize pornography and m*sturbation over physical relationships.
Dr. Grant also warns that compulsive m*sturbation can cause physical issues that affect sexual intimacy. “It can lead to reduced sensitivity in the genital area, making it harder to experience pleasure. This often happens when nerve endings are overstimulated from excessive activity or rough techniques,” he explained. However, this is typically a temporary issue, and sensitivity can often be restored by taking breaks or using lubricants.
Furthermore, Dr. Grant cautioned that over-m*sturbating can lead to psychological effects, such as performance anxiety during s*x, which can diminish libido. He emphasized that m*sturbation habits vary greatly from person to person, but it’s essential to ensure that s*xual activity doesn’t interfere with work, social life, or relationships.
Physical discomfort or injury can be a sign that m*sturbation is becoming excessive. Dr. Grant advised maintaining a balanced approach to self-pleasure, ensuring it doesn’t negatively impact daily life. He also acknowledged that feelings of guilt or shame about these habits can take a toll on mental well-being.
“In the end, common sense is key to keeping m*sturbation a healthy, recreational activity that doesn’t disrupt other aspects of life,” Dr. Grant concluded.