Masturbation Myths | How much is too much? | Urologist explains the truth about masturbation

Summary

In this video, Dr. Eric, a urologic surgeon and men's health expert, debunks common myths about masturbation. He explains that masturbation is a normal, healthy activity practiced by both men and women, offering benefits like improved mood, sleep, and stress reduction. Dr. Eric dispels myths such as masturbation causing erectile dysfunction or being unnatural, while emphasizing that it is a natural part of sexual development. He also touches on the importance of moderation, noting that excessive masturbation only becomes problematic if it interferes with daily life or relationships.

Takeaways

• 😀 Masturbation is not exclusive to men; 70% of women report masturbating regularly as well.
• 😀 Masturbation can improve mood, sleep, focus, stress levels, and even boost self-esteem and body image.
• 😀 Orgasm during masturbation releases hormones like dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins that contribute to these positive effects.
• 😀 People in relationships do masturbate, whether separately or together, and it doesn't reflect dissatisfaction in the relationship.
• 😀 Masturbation does not cause erectile dysfunction, though it can impact sexual performance in some cases if done excessively or in a way that reduces pleasure during partnered sex.
• 😀 'Erectile latency' is the time it takes to get another erection after orgasm, and this time increases with age, which can impact sexual performance if masturbation happens too soon before a sexual encounter.
• 😀 Masturbation is a normal and healthy part of sexual development, with studies showing that 74% of boys and 48% of girls between ages 14-17 engage in it.
• 😀 Masturbation is a safe way to explore your body and sexual desires, and it helps avoid unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections.
• 😀 There is no such thing as 'too much' masturbation unless it becomes compulsive, interferes with relationships, or disrupts daily activities.
• 😀 Masturbation does not cause blindness. The myth likely stems from outdated religious or cultural beliefs about sexual pleasure.
• 😀 Masturbation is a healthy and normal way to relieve sexual tension, and there are no health risks associated with it. In fact, it may even reduce the risk of prostate cancer in men.

Q & A

Is masturbation a behavior exclusive to men?

No, masturbation is not exclusive to men. While 90% of men report masturbating regularly, 70% of women do as well. Masturbation is a common activity for both genders.

Can masturbation have positive effects on health?

Yes, masturbation can have various positive effects on health. It may help improve mood, reduce stress, improve sleep, and even enhance focus and concentration. The hormones released during orgasm, like dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins, contribute to these benefits.

Do people in relationships still masturbate?

Yes, people in relationships can still masturbate. Some may masturbate separately or together with their partner. Masturbation in a relationship doesn't reflect negatively on the relationship's happiness or intimacy.

Does masturbation cause erectile dysfunction?

Masturbation does not cause erectile dysfunction (ED). However, frequent masturbation close to a sexual encounter can lead to erectile latency, which means it may take longer to achieve an erection. Additionally, masturbation techniques that differ significantly from normal sexual activity might decrease sexual arousal with a partner.

Is masturbation a normal part of sexual development?

Yes, masturbation is a normal part of sexual development. Studies show that a large percentage of adolescents, including 74% of boys and 48% of girls aged 14-17, engage in masturbation. It is a healthy way to explore one's body and avoid unwanted pregnancies or sexually transmitted infections.

Can you masturbate too much?

While masturbation is healthy in moderation, it can become problematic if it turns into a compulsive behavior that interferes with relationships or daily activities. In such cases, it may be necessary to reduce the frequency or seek therapy to address underlying issues.

Is it true that masturbation can make you blind?

No, this is a false myth. Masturbation has no connection to blindness. This myth is rooted in outdated religious and conservative beliefs about sexuality. There is no scientific basis for the claim that masturbation can cause blindness.

What are the health benefits of masturbation?

Masturbation is a healthy activity with several benefits, including stress relief, mood enhancement, and better sleep. Additionally, it has been suggested that masturbation may reduce the risk of prostate cancer in men.

Is there any age range where masturbation is particularly common?

Yes, masturbation is common in adolescence, with a study showing that 74% of boys and 48% of girls aged 14-17 engage in the practice. However, people of all ages can and do masturbate as part of their sexual development.

Can masturbation impact sexual relationships?

Masturbation does not inherently harm sexual relationships. However, if it becomes a substitute for real-life sexual experiences or creates issues with arousal or intimacy, it may require attention. Communication with a partner can help address any concerns related to masturbation within a relationship.