what are the side effects of masturbation - #39540
I am really curious about what are the side effects of masturbation lately because I’ve been reading a lot about it, and honestly, it’s all a bit confusing. Like, sometimes I hear that it’s completely normal, even healthy, but then I see these articles claiming it can lead to all kinds of issues. I remember when I was a teenager it was kinda like a secret everyone was doing but no one would talk about, you know? Anyway, now in my late 20s, I noticed that after I do it, I *feel* kinda weird. Like, physically I might feel a bit tired or even a little irritable afterward. And I’m not sure if that’s normal or if it’s just me being dramatic! I’ve read stuff saying it can mess with your energy levels or even your mental health but what are the side effects of masturbation really? I also overheard some friends talking about how it can lead to performance issues down the line, which really freaked me out. Left me wondering if I should be worried. Besides, I’ve also heard it could affect sleep cycles or relationships in some way, but is that legit? I just want to know what are the side effects of masturbation that I should be aware of. Any advice or experiences would be helpful! Ugh, thanks in advance!
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Doctors' responses
The perception of masturbation varies widely, and it’s a topic often clouded by myths and cultural influences. From an Ayurvedic point of view, it’s essential to see how it aligns with your unique physical and mental constitution. Ayurveda emphasizes balance and suggests that any activity, overdone, could lead to imbalances.
Physically, post-masturbation fatigue or tiredness isn’t uncommon. This could be due to a temporary drop in energy, which in Ayurveda is connected to ojas - the vital essence believed to be depleted through excessive loss of sperm in men or through similar activities for women. Moderation is key here. If you notice fatigue, it might be worth considering the frequency and evaluating whether it’s aligning well with your energy levels and daily activities.
Regarding mental aspects, feelings of irritability could stem from an imbalance in Vata dosha, which governs movement and emotion in the body. After masturbation, an elevated Vata state might manifest as emotional instability or irritability. Incorporating grounding practices like meditation, warm oil massage (abhyanga), or soothing teas such as chamomile might help bring balance.
On performance concerns, some people worry about libido or sensitivity changes. While typically these aren’t direct effects of masturbation itself, excessive indulgence could shift focus or create unrealistic expectations - these, in turn, might indirectly affect quality of life or sexual relationships.
Lastly, you mentioned potential effects on sleep and relationships - in a balanced practice, masturbation should not inherently impair these areas. However, if you notice disturbances, exploring lifestyle adjustments, like mindful sleep routines or exploring deeper emotional connections with partners, might provide clarity.
Ensure you’re listening to your body and keeping watch on whether the habit disrupts daily life or leads to any distress. If so, seeking guidance from a health professional on personalized practices to enhance wellbeing can be a productive step. Ayurveda supports tuning into your body to maintain balance and promote a holistic state of health above all.

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