How And Why You Need To Stop Masturbating?

Introduction

Masturbating is a common and normal behaviour. In fact, it is often considered a part of healthy sexual development¹. However, it is not a medically proven method for improving sexual function or health outcomes. In some cases, excessive masturbation might be associated with compulsive sexual behaviour disorder². An activity meant to be pleasurable should not interfere with daily life or emotional well-being. In this article, we will explore possible reasons to reduce masturbating and practical ways to do so. 

Friendly Reminder: The information shared here is for educational purposes only, and the reader should consult a registered medical practitioner before implementing any changes to their health routine. 

Are You Masturbating a Lot?

How do you know if masturbation has become a concern? Masturbation can be a normal and healthy sexual behaviour for many individuals, and it does not indicate any serious problems. However, sometimes it might affect the way you think, act, and feel, and your day-to-day functioning. This may be associated with compulsive sexual behaviour, not just masturbation. You may experience changes in your behaviour that can affect your surroundings, loss of control, distress, or difficulty managing daily activities². 

The first step to address this is to accept the issue and be open to finding solutions. Signs that suggest you are excessively masturbating may include: 

• Skipping work, school, and social gatherings to masturbate. 
• An uncontrollable urge to masturbate. 
• Planning your activities around opportunities to masturbate. 

NOTE: Many people masturbate at some point in their lives, and it is healthy to do so. People may masturbate whether they are satisfied or unsatisfied with their sex life. The key is moderation, so that it does not interfere with daily life, relationships, or emotional well-being. 

Interesting Facts About Masturbation

Here are some interesting facts that will give you an insight into this topic and its other facets. 

• Masturbation does not cause shrinking of the penis, decreased sex drive, infertility or blindness³. 
• Women in their late 20s may masturbate frequently. 
• Masturbation may help improve your sex life. 
• Men may masturbate more than women. 
• Some studies suggest that frequent ejaculation over a lifetime may be associated with a slightly lower risk of prostate cancer; however, there is no frequency established and this should not be considered a preventive measure⁴. 

Why Do People Masturbate?

It is absolutely normal to masturbate, and there are a lot of reasons why people do it. Some of the common reasons include: 

• To release stress temporarily 
• To understand their body better 
• To experience orgasm 
• Lack of sex (not in all cases) 
• Relationship issues¹ 

How to Manage Excessive Masturbation?

If masturbation becomes difficult to control or interferes with your daily life, it may be time to address it. Here are a few simple strategies to support better self-control. 

1. Say ‘NO’ to Pornography

Pornography can be a trigger for people who masturbate frequently⁵. It may also influence a person’s thoughts, expectations, and behaviours related to sexuality. Limiting or avoiding exposure to explicit images, videos, or websites may help reduce the urge to masturbate and support healthier habits. 

2. Do Something New

Diverting your mind by doing something else may help. Consider taking up a new hobby, such as swimming or hiking, which can replace time otherwise spent masturbating⁶. Working on personal goals and writing them down in a diary may also be helpful. Reminding yourself of these goals can help you stay motivated and redirect your energy towards other activities, reducing repeated thoughts about masturbation. 

3. Consult a Doctor

Masturbation does not always require medical treatment or therapy. However, if you feel unable to control the behaviour, experience distress, or notice problems with day-to-day functioning, it may be a sign of compulsive sexual behaviour². In such situations, it is important to understand that managing this alone can be difficult. A healthcare professional may provide guidance and support to help address the issue. Not seeking help may affect mental well-being and could worsen distress over time. Therefore, consider speaking with a psychologist or therapist for appropriate support. 

4. Socialise More

Did you know that many people socialise because they feel lonely? Engaging in social activities can help reduce repetitive or intrusive thoughts. Socialising keeps your mind diverted from masturbation and focused elsewhere. So make it a point to socialise with family, and friends or hit the gym to keep your body more productive. 

5. Regular Exercise

Exercising regularly may help keep your mind healthy and balanced. Simple activities such as walking, jogging, running, or swimming can improve focus and may help reduce stress⁶. Physical activity can also help you feel calmer and more positive. Even setting aside 30 minutes a day for exercise can make a difference. 

Sometimes erectile dysfunction, especially in elderly males, can be a sign of underlying undiagnosed coronary artery disease. These patients should get themselves screened for cardiac issues under the guidance of their physician before resorting to any therapies for erectile dysfunction. 

Dr. Nikhil Yadav, MBBS, MD, CCEBDM

Psychology Behind Excessive Masturbation

Excessive masturbation may be linked to underlying mental health concerns and, in some cases, problematic behavioural patterns. Feelings of intense guilt after masturbation can be one possible sign of compulsive sexual behaviour disorder, and some individuals may also turn to alcohol more frequently as a coping mechanism². Masturbation may become a concern if it feels compulsive or difficult to control. It is generally normal, but it is important not to let it interfere with your well-being or daily life. 

Does Masturbation Have Side Effects?

Yes, excessive masturbation may have physical and mental side effects. 

• Physical side effects: Excessive masturbation may sometimes lead to local oedema (fluid build-up between body tissues or cells) due to vigorous friction or minor trauma, as well as skin irritation. Gripping the penis too tightly may cause temporary swelling, along with skin irritation or small tears^7,8. 
• Mental side effects: Excessive masturbation may involve internal conflict, where a person notices changes in their thoughts and behaviour. This can include changes in personal or religious beliefs, difficulties with sexual communication, avoidable conflicts with a partner, and relationship strain. In some individuals, strong feelings of guilt may affect mood and self-esteem, and emotional distress may contribute to low mood, anxiety, or changes in social behaviour^8,9. 

Also Read: Does Masturbation Cause Weight Loss? Debunking Sexual Health Misconceptions

Conclusion

Masturbation is a normal sexual behaviour for many people and is generally not harmful when practised in moderation. However, if it becomes compulsive, causes distress, affects daily functioning, or leads to sexual or emotional difficulties, it may be helpful to seek guidance from a healthcare professional. Along with professional support, measures such as staying socially engaged and maintaining regular physical activity may help manage such concerns. 

Excessive masturbation may be associated with both mental and physical discomfort in some individuals. Rather than focusing on specific numbers or limits, it is important to pay attention to how the behaviour affects your well-being, relationships, and daily life. The following frequently asked questions provide further clarity on this topic. 

NOTE: Consult a doctor if you feel this behaviour is becoming difficult to control or is affecting your well-being. While masturbation is a normal and healthy part of human sexuality, doing it excessively may be associated with physical discomfort or emotional distress in some individuals. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References

1. Herbenick D, Fu T chieh, Wasata R, Coleman E. Masturbation Prevalence, Frequency, Reasons, and Associations with Partnered Sex in the Midst of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Findings from a U.S. Nationally Representative Survey. Arch Sex Behav. 2023;52(3):1317-1331. doi:10.1007/s10508-022-02505-2. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9794105/ 
2. Zhang W, Wang P, Gao B, Wang Z. Global research status and trends of compulsive sexual behavior disorder: A comprehensive bibliometric analysis. JBA. 2025;14(3):1199-1221. doi:10.1556/2006.2025.00059. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12486290/ 
3. Nandy A, Das S. Masturbation, It’s Facts & Myths. 2019;3(5). Available from: https://www.ijtsrd.com/biological-science/biological-system/25273/masturbation-its-facts-and-myths/arpan-nandy  
4. Ejaculation frequency and prostate cancer. Published online 2022. Available from: https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens-health/ejaculation_frequency_and_prostate_cancer 
5. Ince C, Fontenelle LF, Carter A, et al. Clarifying and extending our understanding of problematic pornography use through descriptions of the lived experience. Sci Rep. 2023;13(1):18193. doi:10.1038/s41598-023-45459-8. Availabe from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10598215/ 
6. Shekarey A, Rostami MS, Mazdai Kh, Mohammadi A. Masturbation: Prevention& Treatment. Procedia – Social and Behavioral Sciences. 2011;30:1641-1646. doi:10.1016/j.sbspro.2011.10.318. Availabe from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/271889495_Masturbation_Prevention_Treatment 
7. Godse K. Urticaria and masturbation. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol. 2009;75(5):516. doi:10.4103/0378-6323.55405. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/26795329_Urticaria_and_masturbation 
8. Albobali Y, Madi MY. Masturbatory Guilt Leading to Severe Depression. Cureus. Published online March 1, 2021. doi:10.7759/cureus.13626. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8011625/ 
9. Castellini G, Fanni E, Corona G, Maseroli E, Ricca V, Maggi M. Psychological, Relational, and Biological Correlates of Ego-Dystonic Masturbation in a Clinical Setting. 2016;4(3):e156-e165. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.esxm.2016.03.024. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5005301/ 

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof. 

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