Masturbation is a common and normal part of human sexuality. However, there are still many myths and misconceptions surrounding this activity. Some people believe that excessive masturbation can be harmful, while others believe that it can improve sexual health and functioning. In this article, we will explore the truth behind some of these myths and provide you with the latest research on masturbation and its effects on the body.
The Link Between Masturbation and Erectile Dysfunction
One of the most common myths about masturbation is that it can lead to erectile dysfunction (ED). However, research has shown that there is no direct link between the two. In fact, masturbation can actually improve pelvic floor muscles, which are important for experiencing pleasure and having orgasms. Exercising these muscles can lead to better orgasms and a better sex life.
The rise in accessibility to pornography has led to an increase in erectile dysfunction, particularly in young men. However, this increase is linked to the unrealistic expectations that pornography can create, rather than masturbation itself. Watching pornography can desensitize a person to normal sexual stimulation and lead to unrealistic expectations, which can cause performance anxiety and erectile dysfunction.
The Benefits of Masturbation
Masturbation can provide many benefits for both physical and mental health. For one, it can relieve stress and may help alleviate chronic pelvic and testicular pain in some cases. It can also help build confidence and alleviate performance anxiety, as mentioned previously.
Moreover, masturbation does not lower testosterone as some may believe. In fact, testosterone levels increase during orgasm or masturbation, then return to normal afterwards. Masturbation also provides pleasure without the stress of intimacy or performance pressure.
Debunking Common Myths and Misconceptions
There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding masturbation. For one, the myth that masturbation causes blindness or hairy palms is not true – almost 90% of the population masturbates! This myth is perpetuated by thought leaders who believe masturbation is sinful or represents a lack of control over one’s body. However, these myths are not true, regardless of religious convictions. Another myth is that masturbating too much reduces sensitivity. While it is true that using too much pressure or technique can affect sensation during masturbation, masturbating in a specific way can result in the body becoming habituated to that sensation, making it harder to orgasm with different techniques or pressure. It’s important to use similar techniques during masturbation as during sexual encounters or consider using less pressure or vibration if expecting different sensations during intercourse.
When Masturbating Becomes a Problem
Masturbating daily is generally not a problem, as long as it doesn’t interfere with daily life. However, compulsive or excessive masturbation that interferes with normal activities or intimacy may be a sign of a problem. Guilt from masturbation can be detrimental to sexual function and linked to depression and anxiety. Abstaining from masturbation is okay if it makes you feel bad, but seeking a sex therapist may help work through feelings of guilt.
It’s important to remember that masturbation is a common practice with over 90% of men and 75% of women regularly masturbating. Masturbation has benefits such as improved mood, better sleep, and increased focus due to the release of feel-good hormones like dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins. It’s a form of safe sex that allows a person to discover what gives them pleasure. Debunking some of the biggest myths around the practice is necessary to help people understand and embrace their sexuality.
Masturbation is common, however, misconceptions have led to negative perceptions.
One of the more common myths regarding masturbation is that it leads to Erectile Dysfunction.
Masturbation can help build confidence, alleviate performance anxiety and relieve stress.
Compulsive or excessive masturbation can lead to feelings of guilt that can be detrimental to one’s psychological health.
The rise in accessibility to pornography has led to an increase in erectile dysfunction, particularly in young men, however, this increase is linked to the unrealistic expectations that pornography can create, rather than masturbation itself, as watching pornography can desensitize a person to normal sexual stimulation and lead to unrealistic expectations which can cause performance anxiety and erectile dysfunction.
Masturbation can provide many benefits for both physical and mental health, facilitating confidence and helping to alleviate performance anxiety, whether solo or partnered.
It’s important to use similar techniques during masturbation as during sexual encounters or consider using less pressure or vibration if expecting different sensations during intercourse, as it can result in the body becoming habituated to a sensation, making it harder to orgasm with different techniques or pressure.
Overall, the benefits of self-pleasure far outweigh the myths and misconceptions surrounding it and it is essential to debunk these myths, to provide safe guidance and improve sexual health.
This article highlights the key myths and misconceptions surrounding masturbation. Research has demonstrated that despite common beliefs, masturbation does not lead to Erectile Dysfunction but can, in fact, improve pelvic floor muscles. Furthermore, it is debunked that excessive masturbation causes blindness or hairy palms, as almost 90% of the population masturbates. The article concludes by reminding readers that masturbation can have many benefits for both physical and mental health, and it is important to have accurate information regarding self-pleasure.
