Does pornography cause or worsen erectile dysfunction? That depends on who you ask, and which study you believe. Here we will discuss both sides of the issue, and facts about erectile dysfunction.
In recent years, numerous studies have been conducted, and both proven and disproved, that more frequent watching of pornography can lead to erectile dysfunction in males. It has also shown that it can be beneficial to those males who are trying to reclaim their ability after cancer and illness. While pornography can be beneficial in many situations, like helping to restore intimacy or relight the spark in relationships, it can be a hindrance for those males who spend loads of time watching and self-gratifying to porn, not connecting with another human being.
Erectile dysfunction occurs when a male cannot get or maintain an erection for various reasons, at varying levels. For instance, some men can achieve an erection but cannot achieve the firmness required for penetrative sexual acts. Other males cannot achieve an erection at all, and many more fall in between those levels.
There are many aspects of life that affect a males’ ability to get an erection. Some of these are relationships, body image, stress, mental issues, and medical interference can all hinder “normal” ability. In many cases, there are multiple reasons that cause temporary or permanent ED. Some of those are:
- psychological distress, such as body image problems or anxiety about sex
- relationship problems
- blood vessel disorders, including those due to heart health issues
- neurological damage, which is often due to diabetes
- prostate disorders
- smoking-induced atherosclerosis, which clogs arteries
Periodic difficulties with getting or sustaining an erection are typical and often due to stress. A male who only experiences occasional ED is unlikely to be diagnosed with ED or a related medical condition. There are also other health issues and problems that can cause ED. These are:
- cardiovascular disease
- atherosclerosis
- high blood pressure
- diabetes
- spinal cord injuries
- nerve damage due to surgery
- prostatitis and other prostate disorders
Some mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders and depression, may also play a role. Some males find that certain drugs, including antidepressants and blood pressure medications, make it more difficult to achieve or sustain an erection.
Is Porn a Problem?
In the studies completed that state that porn is causing and worsening erectile dysfunction in males, they say that those males who watch porn regularly become desensitized to “regular” sexual acts and require the more hardcore, fantasy styles of sex (Medical News Today). It is said that these types of males cannot be fully satisfied with their partner, with themselves, or with their set up “bedroom scene” unless they are mimicking that of which they have watched via porn.
These same organizations stating that porn causes males to need a steady increase of sexual stimulation to feel or remain aroused also state that the use of “sex toys” has the same effect- lessening the connection, fun, and pleasure that can be derived from “regular” sexual encounters. One of the leaders of the fight against porn, Gary Wilson (Your Brain on Porn) stands by these study findings, even though his organizations have been charged with study bias.
So, Is it True?
It is true that overstimulation of any kind to the genitals can desensitize those nerves and body parts, and possibly create a scenario where a different type of stimulation may be needed for climax- we side with those studies that say there is an incredibly weak connection or link with these findings, and erectile dysfunction is often caused by multiple factors- not solely porn.
There are more studies proving that watching porn can help to build confidence, strengthen partner connection, help to awaken the body, and help to restore lost function for many men and women alike. In these same studies, males who watched porn at a moderate level said to find their partners more attractive and be more connected to them than when they did not watch (Health Line). Many mental health experts say that in most cases, porn helps to prime the mind and body for the experiences to be had with another human or partner.
(Note: That said, this is not the same as someone who has been diagnosed with a “pornography addiction.” Those with a pornography addiction have a diagnosed medical mental issue that can led to many side effects and life changes. These are not the males this article is referring to or discussing.)
Another factor that must be addressed with these studies is the guilt that many males feel guilty when the masturbate- thinking of or watching anything that is sexual, other than their partner. Society helps create a culture where self-discovery and masturbation and seen as taboo or ungodly- when our bodies were made to experience pleasure of all types. Who is to say one is bad, good, or more important than another?
What is the Treatment for Porn-Induced ED?
Most specialists agree that treating the actual sexual dysfunction is more important than focusing on an issue that may not even be an issue. If the male is experiencing sexual dysfunction, rather than quizzing them on how much porn they are watching, medical professionals should simply offer the solutions that can help them to restore their lost abilities.
The right treatment depends on the root cause of the ED, and some of the treatment options are:
- ED drugs, such as Viagra and Cialis
- the use of a penis pump to pull blood into the penis and achieve an erection
- masturbator devices to help with orgasm with or without an erection
- Penile shaft supporting devices that assist with penetrative sexual acts
- lifestyle remedies to address cardiovascular disease, such as exercise and diet changes
- surgery to address anatomical problems or prostate disorders
- a penile implant
- adopting a pleasure-based rather than performance-based approach to sexuality (this means striving for the pleasure feelings, rather than focusing solely on ejaculating or orgasm)
Removing other factors like guilt, lack of sex, or a physiological problem, porn is unlikely the sole cause of a males’ sexual dysfunction. Males have many other reasons for abstaining from porn throughout life but should understand that forfeiting watching porn will not remove the risk of ED developing at some point in their lives. ED, while frustrating, is common and treatable and a full life can still be lived and enjoyed with or without erection difficulty.
If you are struggling with ED, finding a respectable doctor and knowledgeable therapist can help you to stay on course to overcome your issues. Having a supportive, sensitive partner who is willing to work with you through your struggles is also vital if you are in a relationship. Patience, perseverance, and becoming empowered with knowledge will help you fix your issues- even while you are watching porn.
Citations:
WebMD
HealthLine
Medical News Today
Empowering Intimacy