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What Are The Harmful Effects Of Masturbation?

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Posted on Wed, 28 Oct 2015
Question: Hi doctor, I am a 34 year old man. My query is as follows :-
I have been masturbating almost everyday, since I was 18 yrs old. So that means from last 14 yrs it's almost everyday. Sometimes I do it twice also (once in afternoon, and once at night). I do it so often as I enjoy it.

My concern is....
1)Does it decrease my body immune system fight virus and bacterial infections?
2)I have been married since 1yr now, but I still enjoy masturbation more than actual intercourse. Is it an issue?
3) are there any issues /disadvantages in what I am doing?
ssue?
4) are there any advantages in what I am doing?
5) if there is any need to decrease the frequency of this habit, please give some tips.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (15 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Consultation

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for your question.

1. There is no harm at all to your health in masturbating. It will not affect your immune system. It is a normal and healthy activity.

2. Most people masturbate when married. This is not an issue.

Regarding 3-5, masturbating even when married is a normal healthy practice. If you notice erectile difficulties when having intercourse, this is a sign you should cut down on masturbation, as this can decrease your stamina with your wife. Aside from this, there is no advantage or disadvantage. This is a normal healthy practice that should not interfere with a happy marriage.

For a more personalized comprehensive evaluation and answer, ask me on HealthCareMagic at this private link: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Sonia Raina
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (44 minutes later)
Thank you for the Clear reply.
Yes. I do experience erectile difficulty while intercourse with wife. But not during masturbation. This is effecting my relationship with wife as I'm finding it difficult to satisfy her. Pls suggest some solution
doctor
Answered by Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (7 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Follow-up

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for your followup question.

You describe difficulties maintaining an erection during intercourse with your wife, but you are able to maintain an erection while masturbating. This means there is very likely nothing wrong with your penis or the hormones that lead to erection, as you are able to maintain an erection by yourself. This points to a psychological issue regarding intercourse with your wife.

Firstly, I will say that there are medications that can help with this, such as sildenafil (Viagra) or tadalafil (Cialis). These can be taken 30 minutes prior to intercourse to maintain a firm erection. However, because the issue is primarily psychological ("performance anxiety" about pleasing your wife), I would recommend psychotherapy to talk about these concerns. This therapy would be targeted to decrease your anxiety about performing "well" and focus on getting you and your wife to open up and talk about this issue so you can make your sex life more fulfilling and exciting together. Either medication or therapy would be effective here.

If you are interested in continuing therapy with me, I am always looking for new patients. Talk with me on HealthCareMagic at my private link: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers
Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe

Psychiatrist

Practicing since :2014

Answered : 2236 Questions

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What Are The Harmful Effects Of Masturbation?

Brief Answer: Consultation Detailed Answer: Thanks for your question. 1. There is no harm at all to your health in masturbating. It will not affect your immune system. It is a normal and healthy activity. 2. Most people masturbate when married. This is not an issue. Regarding 3-5, masturbating even when married is a normal healthy practice. If you notice erectile difficulties when having intercourse, this is a sign you should cut down on masturbation, as this can decrease your stamina with your wife. Aside from this, there is no advantage or disadvantage. This is a normal healthy practice that should not interfere with a happy marriage. For a more personalized comprehensive evaluation and answer, ask me on HealthCareMagic at this private link: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers