When it comes to men’s sexual health, one of the most common concerns – and one that a great many men are embarrassed to talk about openly – is whether too much masturbation is bad for the penis. For those who are worried that their self-pleasuring habits are causing permanent damage, the most frequent questions about penile health are answered here; some helpful guidelines for ongoing penis care are also provided.
Does masturbation cause erectile dysfunction?
A look at the men’s health forums will show that a large number of men worry that masturbation causes erectile dysfunction. In fact, when it comes to the penis, the old saying “use it or lose it” is especially true. Men who do NOT ejaculate, whether solo or with a partner, on a fairly regular basis are actually more likely to experience loss of function. Now, men who ejaculate frequently may require some recovery time – known as the refractory period – between sessions, but this is not the same thing as erectile dysfunction.
Does too much self-pleasure cause weakness or fatigue?
The idea that masturbating can cause weakness or fatigue is often perpetuated by those who, for various reasons, want to discourage men from handling themselves. However, this concern is not grounded in fact; it is simply not true. Men may feel relaxed and sleepy after ejaculating, but this is due to the increased level of hormones like oxytocin that occur after a release; this is actually healthy and can help to reduce the effects of stress, anxiety and some symptoms of depression.
Does getting off cause infertility?
Ejaculating frequently through masturbation may cause a temporary drop in sperm count, but this is ONLY temporary. In fact, men who release more often are more likely to have higher-quality sperm, since the supply is constantly replenishing.
Does masturbating cause loss of sensation?
This particular concern may have more basis in reality than others and can occur for a couple of reasons. First, constant friction can cause microscopic tears or fissures in the outer layers of skin. The skin responds to this minor damage by forming a layer of keratinized tissue – toughened skin that is similar to the calluses that form on the hands and feet. This keratinized layer can make it more difficult for the nerve cells of the penis to detect tactile sensations, thus causing a decrease in sensation. Fortunately, this condition is not permanent, as long as men take the appropriate steps to heal the damaged tissue.
In the second place, men often develop a special technique for masturbation that becomes a habit. Over time, it may become more difficult for different types of sensation – such as those provided by a partner – to have a pleasurable effect, thus creating the perception of lost sensation. In this case, men can “retrain” the penile tissue to respond by taking some time off altogether, and then experimenting with different techniques.
Daily penis care
Following a simple daily personal care routine, men can promote healthy penile tissue, and in many cases, they can prevent or even reverse damage that may lead to loss of penile sensation. The most important aspects of penile care including keeping the area clean and free of any accumulated body fluids, as well as wearing comfortable, breathable underclothing.
Using a personal lube during solo sessions is a must to avoid the surface damage that can cause toughening of the outer layers of skin; and during partner activity, use of a lubricant, along with a condom, is recommended to prevent excessive friction.
Finally, use of a penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) that is enriched with targeted nutrients such as vitamin C (to boost collagen production for more supple skin), acetyl L carnitine (to boost sensitivity) and natural emollients (to smooth and moisturize) can improve the quality of the penile tissue, leaving it soft, supple and responsive.