Sexual Health Center
Sex, Lies, and the Internet
Question:
I've done some research lately and discovered that a history of masturbation, though I've not done it for some time, could be the cause of short-lasting erections and the leaking of pre-ejaculate. I've read about some herbs and drugs that supposedly will fix this problem, but I'm wondering if, over the next month or two, having stopped masturbating, my body will fix itself and these symptoms will go away. If not, will the herbs and drugs actually work? I'd like to get rid of this problem before I get married next summer.
Answer:
These types of concerns often are mentioned after some
folks read certain web sites that are trying to worry their readers with very
natural symptoms. They then try to sell a product to cure these very natural
symptoms. I love the Internet, but I sure do feel frustrated when bogus ideas
are spread to prey on someone's lack of information.
The pre-ejaculate fluid is completely natural and a normal response. And, of
course, your erection may not be as strong if you try too soon after your most
recent orgasm.
The thing that I mind the most about these bogus web sites is that they
sometimes manage to create a problem with their misinformation. If you know
that you have masturbated, then you might be susceptible to getting erection
problems simply because the site says you will. It's the power of suggestion
and what's called a self-fulfilling prophecy.
So you need to take my post as seriously as the other things you've read and
know that masturbation has no effect on your erections (other than what we've
already mentioned).
