A doctor has issued a warning to men who pleasure themselves too often, as it could negatively impact their health.
While self-pleasure can offer benefits such as stress relief, improved sleep, and enhanced mood, overindulgence might be costly.
Dr. Donald Grant, GP and senior clinical advisor at The Independent Pharmacy revealed all to the Daily Mail.
“Overall, there’s no strict rule or guideline on how much people should m*sturbate,” Dr. Grant explained. “But when m*sturbation gets out of hand, there’s a variety of ways it can impact sexual and physical health.”
A key factor Dr. Grant highlights is the increasing consumption of p*rnography, which has been linked to a rise in p*rn-induced erectile dysfunction (PIED).
A recent survey by media regulator Ofcom revealed that half of adults in the UK now access explicit content online.
This trend is concerning, as Dr. Grant suggests it may be contributing to the growing incidence of ED.
Up to 50% of adult men experience some degree of erectile dysfunction, according to the British Association of Urological Surgeons.
While ED is often connected to health conditions like obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes, Dr. Grant warns that lesser-known factors, such as PIED, could also be to blame.
“PIED is a type of erectile dysfunction that stems from an unhealthy consumption of p*rnography,” Dr. Grant stated.
“This unhealthy p*rn usage can lead to desensitization, making it more difficult for men to achieve and maintain an erection — as they’re used to more intense sexual activity seen on screen. It can lead to reduced interest in sex with actual partners as men prioritise p*rn and m*sturbation instead.”
Dr. Grant also warns that compulsive m*sturbation could cause physical changes that make intimacy more difficult.
“Compulsive m*sturbation can lead to reduced sensitivity in the genital area, making it more difficult to achieve sexual pleasure or stimulation,” he said.
“It can occur when nerve endings become damaged from too much activity, creating a loss of sensitivity. This can also impact individuals who m*sturbate too roughly, causing potential friction damage.”
The good news, he adds, is that this issue is often temporary.
"Factors such as taking breaks or using lubricants can help restore sensitivity," he said. "And there are a range of treatments available to men struggling with ED, helping them manage a healthy sex life and achieve erections with ease."
Beyond physical effects, Dr. Grant warns that excessive m*sturbation could also take a toll on mental well-being.
“Over-m*sturbating can be damaging in other ways,” he said. "It can cause men and women to become hyper-focused on their own pleasure, leading to performance anxiety when the time comes for intercourse with a partner, which directly impacts sex drive."
However, defining what counts as "too much" is subjective.
"M*sturbation habits can differ largely from person to person, with some doing it daily, weekly, or not at all," Dr. Grant noted.
He advised individuals to monitor their sexual activity to ensure it doesn't interfere with their daily lives, work, or relationships. "Discomfort or injury is usually a telltale sign that the m*sturbation sessions are becoming too much and harming health."
He also touched on the potential for mental distress due to guilt or shame associated with m*sturbation, particularly when linked to p*rnography. These feelings can take a toll on mental health, but Dr. Grant emphasizes that open communication can help.
“For those concerned they are suffering from PIED, it’s important to speak openly about the situation with your partner,” he advised, adding that reducing anxiety can play a crucial role in resolving sexual issues.
