Masturbation and Erectile Dysfunction: Removing Myth from Medicine

Author: Renu Meena

Category: Erectile Dysfunction

Published: 20, May 2025 Last Updated: 20, May 2025

Masturbation and Erectile Dysfunction: Removing Myth from Medicine

The internet is loaded with claims linking masturbation with erectile dysfunction (ED). Many readers feel fear or shame while encountering such claims. There is so much misleading information surfacing on the internet, giving birth to myths all over. Sometimes, these myths may sabotage people’s thinking around sexual wellness and mental health.

The persistence of the myths stems from a lack of reliable information around sexual health education. There are also a lot of stigmas surrounding candid conversations we have with our circle about sexual function. Such misconceptions contribute to needless distress and deter readers from seeking reliable support.

In this blog, we will explore both the concepts of masturbation and erectile dysfunction. This blog serves as a base for clearing away the myths hovering around the internet and allows readers to fully focus on what truly matters.

Setting the Stage: Does Masturbation Cause ED? What Science Really Says

Masturbation and erectile dysfunction are sensitive topics. They are shrouded in several stigmas and misleading information. Fears around the consequences of self-pleasure are pretty standard. This is especially true for rampant online speculations and cultural taboos around both concepts. Men worry that masturbation may sap their virility. It may cause them long-term harm or may eventually lead them to erectile dysfunction (ED).

But is there any scientific basis for these worries? Does masturbation cause erectile dysfunction? Or are these beliefs only myths reflecting a lot of cultural anxieties and misleading information? We should look at the past myths and focus on evidence-based medicines.
Understanding what the real relationship between masturbation and erectile dysfunction looks like is essential. It empowers individuals to take charge of their health and destigmatizes their sexual wellness. It is necessary to seek appropriate support as and when you need it.

This blog will help in demystifying a lot of erectile dysfunction and masturbation myths. It helps explore the real underlying causes of ED to provide the proper guidance for healthy and shame-free self-pleasure around your sexual health.

Physiology 101: What Really Happens During Masturbation vs. Partnered Sex

In the case of the basic mechanics of sexual arousal and orgasm, your body will respond remarkably similarly to when you are engaged either in masturbation or partnered sex.

Physiologically, both your experiences trigger a hormonal and neurological cascade. Blood flow to your genital region increases along with your heart rate. Your body starts experiencing good chemicals in your brain, such as oxytocin and dopamine. On the contrary, the erection process relies heavily on a delicate dance between your nerves, blood vessels, and hormones. This erection is regardless of whether you experience stimulation from yourself or because of your partner.

During masturbation, both arousal and stimulation are directed by yourself. It allows you to focus exclusively on your unique pleasure triggers and rhythms.

On the other hand, partnered sex involves an interplay between your physical and emotional attunement. This interplay adds to your excitement or nervousness as people tend to navigate through mutual desires and feedback. Orgasm in both cases contracts your muscles by building up tension. It is usually a pronounced sense of relaxation due to the release of hormones like endorphins and prolactin. A subsequent refractory period becomes a necessity for your body to recover. It is temporarily less responsive to your sexual stimuli. You may experience it in both solo and partnered scenarios.

The Evidence Base: Does Masturbation Alone Cause ED?

For decades, the masturbation myths around erectile dysfunction have persisted across several cultures and online circles. However, there have been several credible scientific studies that have overwhelmed these beliefs. There are numerous peer-reviewed studies and expert reviews examining the relationship between masturbation and erectile dysfunction. Routine studies showed no causal links to erectile quality.

A 2024 study indicates that men who indulged in atypical patterns demonstrated lower IIEF scores and higher ED rates. "Atypical masturbation" was defined as self-stimulation techniques that differ significantly from those encountered during partnered sex.

The IIEF-6 (International Index of Erectile Function, 6-item version) is a validated questionnaire widely used to assess erectile function. It scores responses to six questions about erection frequency, firmness, penetration ability, maintenance, and satisfaction. Each question is rated from 0 to 5, with a possible score of 30. Higher scores indicate better erectile function, while lower scores suggest more severe ED. Common cutoffs are:

26–30: No ED
18–25: Mild ED
11–17: Moderate ED
10 or below: Severe ED

People also want to know, does porn cause ED? Several cross-sectional studies claim that internet pornography use is increasing the incidence of erectile dysfunction. As a result, the cases of porn-induced ED are rising.

Medical professionals are increasingly recognizing masturbation as a normal and healthy part of male sexuality, being practiced by the majority of men at some point in their lives. Several clinical studies show that masturbation produces no harm to the penile tissues nor damages their hormonal levels. Some doctors even note the benefits of masturbation, such as reducing sexual tension, promoting self-awareness, and potentially maintaining erectile health through regular stimulation and increased blood flow.

When Self-Stimulation Can Indirectly Sabotage Erection Quality

Masturbation addiction itself does not directly cause you erectile dysfunction. There are specific patterns or habits around self-stimulation that indirectly impact the quality of your erection while indulging in partnered sex. For example, an individual consistently relies on particular techniques, such as excessive pressure or fast and focused stimulation. Such practices may make it difficult to replicate the same experience with your partner, as your body and mind may become conditioned to expecting only that form of stimulation. This process is referred to as "death grip syndrome." It may make it harder to achieve or maintain your erection levels during intercourse. The only reason behind this is that you may experience different or less intense sensations over time.

Another indirect psychological factor is that you harbor guilt, anxiety, or shame for your masturbation habits. Such experiences are often shaped by cultural taboos or misleading information and erectile dysfunction porn. You may experience anxieties around your sexual performance when you are with your partners. This type of anxious sexual performance may impact your erectile response.

Overindulgence in pornography in association with masturbation may also result in unrealistic expectations or decreased sensitivity to real-life sexual activities. However, mainly these are irreversible issues. You must be mindful of many self-stimulation techniques to reduce reliance on specific media types. This self-stimulation is vital in fostering a healthy and shame-free attitude towards sexuality for mitigating such effects. It supports a healthy sexual function.

Prone Masturbation

Prone masturbation refers to a self-pleasuring method where a person lies face-down and stimulates their genitals by pressing and moving against a surface such as a mattress, pillow, or the floor. Some individuals may also use their hands to cup their genitals while pushing against the surface. There are relatively rare yet well-documented case-control trials on prone masturbation syndrome.

Physical Aspects

Prone masturbation can create a bit more pressure on the genitals than traditional hand techniques. Over time, this extra pressure and friction might lessen sensitivity in the genital area, which could make it a bit tougher to enjoy lighter forms of stimulation, especially during partnered sexual activities. This phenomenon is often referred to as sexual desensitization.

Some studies indicate that regularly practicing this method could lead to particular sexual challenges, including:

Difficulties with maintaining erections
Delayed climax
Challenges reaching orgasm through other methods
Difficulties with ejaculation during partnered encounters

Psychological and Behavioral Considerations

Adapting to this technique can hinder enjoyment or climax with other stimulation forms, affecting sexual adaptability and satisfaction.

Sexual difficulties, regardless of their cause, can sometimes lead to emotional distress, including feelings of concern or self-consciousness, particularly if they begin to affect intimate relationships or personal confidence.

Research Context

Some studies have examined connections between high-pressure masturbation habits and sexual function issues, though definitive causal relationships remain under investigation. The concept referred to as "Traumatic Masturbatory Syndrome" describes potential effects of excessive pressure during masturbation, though this framework continues to be discussed and evaluated within medical communities.

If someone experiences persistent sexual difficulties that cause distress, consulting with a healthcare provider who specializes in sexual health can provide personalized guidance and support.

The Larger ED Landscape: Medical & Lifestyle Drivers

You might have noticed that the concerns around masturbation are pretty standard. The fundamental drivers of ED are more complex and multifaceted. Mainly, persistent ED stems from underlying medical conditions and not just from normal sexual behaviors. Cardiovascular disease has been at the forefront. Conditions such as atherosclerosis and hypertension reduce your blood flow to your penis. This condition makes it difficult for you to achieve and sustain an erection. Diabetes, to go down next, can cause damage to your blood vessels and nerves. You need them for healthy erectile dysfunction.

Hormonal imbalances, such as low testosterone levels and thyroid-related disorders, are recognized contributors. Neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s and multiple sclerosis also affect your nerve signals, triggering erections. Medicines for depression, hypertension, and anxiety may have ED as a side effect as well.

Healthy Self-Sexual Practices to Support Erectile Function

Masturbation as Part of a Healthy Routine

Physical Benefits: Maintains erectile function, helps prostate health, and can improve mood through endorphin release.
Emotional Benefits: Relieves stress, helps in sexual self-discovery, and can strengthen body acceptance.

When Masturbation Might Be a Problem

Interferes with Daily Life: If masturbation becomes compulsive to the point that it affects work, relationships, or daily functioning, it’s time to talk to a health professional.
Used to Cope with Mental Health Issues: If used exclusively to manage stress or negative emotions, underlying issues may need to be addressed.

Red Flags & Next Steps: When Professional Help Is Essential

A healthcare provider can distinguish between physical and psychological causes, recommend lifestyle changes, adjust medications, and provide sexual counseling or therapy if needed. Here are a few instances when you need immediate professional help:

Can’t achieve or maintain an erection regularly.
Notice other symptoms like reduced desire, pain, or curvature.
Have underlying health conditions (diabetes, heart disease, etc.).
Struggle with anxiety, depression, or relationship stress.

Key Takeaways

The key takeaways around masturbation and erectile dysfunction include:

Educating yourself through trusted medical sources
Discussing concerns with partners in a nonjudgmental way
Reaching out to counselors or sexual health experts when needed

Final Note

Masturbation, contrary to persistent myths, does not cause erectile dysfunction. ED is a complex condition influenced by medical, psychological, and lifestyle factors, none of which are scientifically linked to regular, moderate masturbation. Understanding the difference between masturbation and erectile dysfunction is empowering for all individuals, leading to more confident, taboo-free decisions about sexual health.

If you’re experiencing ongoing ED or discomfort around sexual practices, consult a healthcare provider. An open, honest approach—with yourself and your physician—will always yield the best results for your well-being.