In the past, men and boys were sternly discouraged from masturbation with dire warnings about hairy palms, blindness, impotence and infertility, to name just a few of the more commonly-cited dangers. Nowadays, it is generally accepted that masturbation is not only normal, but may have significant physiological and emotional benefits. On the other hand, the saying that there can be too much of a good thing is also true, and when it comes to over-masturbation, men can experience substantial problems in terms of psychological, physical and penile health.

Over-masturbation does not simply refer to frequent masturbation, even if it takes place more than once a day. Instead, over-masturbation generally refers to an extreme behavior that borders on obsession/compulsion. Some of the most common negative effects on men’s sexual health are described here.

Sexual fatigue

Extreme masturbation, especially with frequent ejaculation, can effectively alter a man’s body chemistry, causing negative side effects such as hair loss, fatigue, memory loss, and (possibly) blurred vision. Groin and testicular pain may also occur.

Furthermore, without allowing for a refractory period, it can become more and more difficult to achieve and sustain an erection, resulting in at least the appearance of impotence.

In general, a reduction in the frequency of masturbation should be enough to alleviate these effects; men who find themselves unable to limit their solo sessions should ask a sex therapist or psychological counselor for help.

Addictive behaviors

Men who masturbate compulsively often exhibit addictive behaviors, such as an inability to stop, hiding the behavior, loss of interest in normal activities, withdrawal from family and friends, difficulties at work, and so on. Men who notice behaviors like these should seek medical attention immediately - and sexual addiction programs are also available for men who are concerned about their obsessive masturbation behavior.

Loss of interest in partner sex

Excessive masturbation can cause men to lose interest in sex with a partner; the more subtle sensations experienced during partner sex may no longer be enough to bring about an orgasm, and men who are fatigued by over-masturbation may not be able to perform when there is another party involved. This can, of course, lead to relationship issues, as well as loss of self-esteem related to perceived impotence. If masturbation habits are getting in the way of a healthy relationship, then having an honest conversation with a partner, and perhaps seeking couples therapy, may help.

Soreness or loss of sensation

Excessive masturbation creates a great deal of stress on the penile tissue, especially for men who use aggressive techniques - a tight grip, yanking and twisting, rubbing against various objects, and so on. Not only can these methods cause extreme soreness in the hours, or even days, following a rough session; over time, these techniques can cause toughening of the skin and nerve desensitization, leading to loss of penis sensation.

Fortunately, this problem is perhaps more easily addressed than the others described here. Masturbating less frequently will help, of course, but trying gentler techniques and using a lube may also minimize soreness and friction-related injury. In addition, use of a top-quality penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) can lead to significant improvements. A product containing a high-end emollient such as Shea butter can soothe sore, roughened skin and create a moisture barrier that may reduce the effects of friction; and ingredients such as acetyl L carnitine have neuroprotective properties that help support healthy nerve function. Powerful vitamins like A and C can also improve the quality of the skin, as well as supporting circulatory health. Applying a cream like this and massaging it thoroughly into clean, damp skin on a daily basis can have significant benefits in terms of penile health and function.