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Masturbation is a common behaviour for both men and women, often considered a normal part of human sexuality. Many people engage in the practice to relieve stress, explore their bodies, or experience sexual pleasure.
However, when it becomes excessive or is practiced in a harmful manner, it can lead to health problems.
Dr Vic Albert, a renowned urologist says masturbation, in and of itself, is not inherently harmful to the reproductive system. “Generally, masturbation does not cause direct damage to the reproductive system,” he says.
In fact, for some individuals, it can be therapeutic, especially in cases where sexual dysfunction or disorders, such as erectile dysfunction (ED) are present. It can serve as a way for individuals to learn more about their sexual preferences and improve their overall sexual health.
However, as with many behaviours, moderation is key. When masturbation becomes excessive, or is practiced aggressively, it can lead to discomfort and potential harm. “Excessive masturbation, or doing it too aggressively, can cause bruising, soreness, and even more serious damage to the genital area,” Dr Albert explains.
In particular, rough handling of the penis or genital area can lead to injuries or microtrauma, where repeated friction causes damage to the skin or underlying tissue. This can manifest as irritation, redness, or even minor abrasions.
A more serious condition that has been linked to excessive masturbation is Peyronie’s disease, a condition that causes the penis to bend during erection due to scar tissue formation.
Although this condition is more commonly associated with injury, repeated friction from aggressive masturbation is considered a contributing factor. In extreme cases, this can interfere with sexual function and cause discomfort during intercourse.
Masturbation can also harm the urinary tract, particularly if hygiene is not maintained. “If you are masturbating with unclean hands or without proper hygiene, there is a risk of introducing bacteria into the urinary tract, which can lead to infections,” Dr Albert warns.
For men, improper hygiene can result in conditions, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) or balanitis, which is the inflammation of the head of the penis. For women, the risk of urinary tract infections is also significant. The urethra, which is the passage that allows urine to exit the body, is located close to the vaginal opening and anus. Masturbation that involves improper hygiene or the use of unsanitised objects can introduce bacteria from these areas into the urethra, leading to infections.
While the physical effects of excessive masturbation are concerning, it is also important to consider the psychological and emotional consequences of overindulgence. Dr Albert points out that frequent masturbation, especially in isolation, can lead to psychological issues, such as performance anxiety, guilt and shame. These feelings can affect self-esteem and sexual confidence, especially if an individual feels conflicted about their behaviour.
Masturbation can also interfere with relationships, particularly when it becomes a substitute for partner-based sexual activity. Individuals who engage in frequent masturbation may find themselves less interested in sexual intimacy with a partner, which can cause emotional strain in relationships.
Dr Albert notes: “If someone becomes too reliant on masturbation for sexual satisfaction, they may find it harder to engage in sexual activities with a partner. This can lead to difficulties in forming or maintaining intimate relationships.”
Additionally, there is evidence to suggest that excessive masturbation can contribute to erectile dysfunction (ED) or premature ejaculation. While these issues are often psychological in origin, they can sometimes be linked to overstimulation of the genitals during frequent masturbation.
The nerves in the penis can become desensitised over time, leading to issues, such as delayed or premature ejaculation. “Excessive stimulation can result in hypersensitivity, which may cause premature ejaculation. On the flip side, some people develop delayed ejaculation due to nerve damage,” explains Dr Albert.
Although many individuals engage in masturbation, studies on the exact number of people who do so frequently are difficult to find, largely due to the stigma surrounding the topic.
A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that 92 per cent of men and 62 per cent of women report having masturbated at some point in their lives. Regularity varies, with younger adults engaging in the practice more frequently.
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