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Long-term masturbation addiction affecting mental health and fertility concerns
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Sexual Health & Wellness
Question #18270
56 days ago
163

Long-term masturbation addiction affecting mental health and fertility concerns - #18270

Souhaib

Hello Doctor, I am a male seeking advice regarding my sexual and mental health. I have been practicing masturbation for approximately 8 years. Over time, it became very frequent and compulsive, and I believe I developed an addiction. Recently, I decided to stop because I started experiencing negative effects on my mental well-being, including depression, low motivation, mental fatigue, anxiety, and general lack of energy. Due to the long duration of this habit, I am concerned about its possible impact on my overall health, semen quality, and fertility. I am worried whether long-term frequent masturbation can reduce the ability of semen to cause pregnancy or lead to weak or watery semen. I would like professional advice on how to recover my overall health, both physically and mentally. I am especially interested in understanding what lifestyle changes, daily habits, nutrition, or natural methods can help restore normal sexual health and improve mental well-being. I would also appreciate guidance on managing addiction-related behaviors and addressing my current symptoms of low mood and lack of motivation. Thank you for your support and guidance.

Mental health
Anxiety
Depression
Masturbation addiction
Low energy
Semen quality
Fertility concerns
Male sexual health
300 INR (~3.53 USD)
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Doctors' responses

Dr. Arsha K Isac
I am a general dentist with 3+ years of working in real-world setups, and lemme say—every single patient teaches me something diff. It’s not just teeth honestly, it’s people… and how they feel walking into the chair. I try really hard to not make it just a “procedure thing.” I explain stuff in plain words—no confusing dental jargon, just straight talk—coz I feel like when ppl *get* what's going on, they feel safer n that makes all the difference. Worked with all ages—like, little kids who need that gentle nudge about brushing, to older folks who come in with long histories and sometimes just need someone to really sit n listen. It’s weirdly rewarding to see someone walk out lighter, not just 'coz their toothache's gone but coz they felt seen during the whole thing. A lot of ppl come in scared or just unsure, and I honestly take that seriously. I keep the vibe calm. Try to read their mood, don’t rush. I always tell myself—every smile’s got a story, even the broken ones. My thing is: comfort first, then precision. I want the outcome to last, not just look good for a week. Not tryna claim perfection or magic solutions—just consistent, clear, hands-on care where patients feel heard. I think dentistry should *fit* the person, not push them into a box. That's kinda been my philosophy from day one. And yeah, maybe sometimes I overexplain or spend a bit too long checking alignment again but hey, if it means someone eats pain-free or finally smiles wide in pics again? Worth it. Every time.
55 days ago
5

Hello, This is common and manageable among men .

Long-term or frequent masturbation does not cause infertility or permanent semen damage

Watery semen is usually due to frequent ejaculation, stress, or dehydration and is reversible

Mental symptoms (low mood, anxiety, fatigue) are linked to compulsive behavior and dopamine imbalance, not semen loss

Recovery happens with time: weeks to months

Key steps: exercise, good sleep, reduce porn/screen time, healthy diet, manage stress

Nutrition for sexual health Eat eggs, fish, nuts, fruits, vegetables Stay well hydrated Nutrients that help: Zinc, Omega-3, Vitamin D, B-complex

Seek professional help if depression lasts over 4–6 weeks

🛑🛑 Mental and sexual health can fully recover with time and healthy habits

Thank you

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Dr. Prasannajeet Singh Shekhawat
I am a 2023 batch passout and working as a general physician right now, based in Hanumangarh, Rajasthan. Still kinda new in the bigger picture maybe, but honestly—every single day in this line teaches you more than textbooks ever could. I’ve had the chance to work under some pretty respected doctors during and after my graduation, not just for the clinical part but also to see how they handle people, real people, in pain, in panic, and sometimes just confused about their own health. General medicine covers a lot, right? Like from the smallest complaints to those random, vague symptoms that no one really understands at first—those are kinda my zone now. I don’t really rush to label things, I try to spend time actually listening. Feels weird to say it but ya, I do take that part seriously. Some patients just need someone to hear the whole story instead of jumping to prescription pads after 30 seconds. Right now, my practice includes everything from managing common infections, blood pressure issues, sugar problems to more layered cases where symptoms overlap and you gotta just... piece things together. It's not glamorous all the time, but it's real. I’ve handled a bunch of seasonal disease waves too, like dengue surges and viral fevers that hit rural belts hard—Hanumangarh doesn’t get much spotlight but there’s plenty happening out here. Also, I do rely on basics—thorough history, solid clinical exam and yeah when needed, investigations. But not over-prescribing things just cz they’re there. One thing I picked up from the senior consultants I worked with—they used to say “don’t chase labs, chase the patient’s story”... stuck with me till now. Anyway, still learning every single day tbh. But I like that. Keeps me grounded and kind of obsessed with trying to get better.
55 days ago
5

Hello Souhaib It’s great that you’re seeking to improve your overall health and well-being. Here are some suggestions to help you recover both physically and mentally:

Lifestyle Changes 1. Limit Triggers: Identify and avoid situations or materials that trigger the urge to masturbate. This could include certain websites, videos, or even specific environments. 2. Physical Activity: Engage in regular exercise, which can boost your mood, increase energy levels, and improve overall health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days. 3. Mindfulness and Relaxation: Practice mindfulness, meditation, or yoga to help manage anxiety and improve mental clarity.

Daily Habits 1. Establish a Routine: Create a daily schedule that includes time for work, exercise, hobbies, and relaxation. This can help reduce idle time and distractions. 2. Sleep Hygiene: Ensure you get enough quality sleep each night. Aim for 7-9 hours and maintain a consistent sleep schedule. 3. Stay Engaged: Find new hobbies or activities that interest you. This can help redirect your focus and energy.

Nutrition 1. Balanced Diet: Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Foods like nuts, seeds, and fish can support overall health. 2. Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated, which is essential for overall bodily functions. 3. Limit Processed Foods: Reduce intake of sugary and processed foods, as they can negatively impact mood and energy levels.

Natural Methods 1. Herbal Supplements: Consider natural supplements like ashwagandha or ginseng, which may help improve energy levels and reduce stress. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplements. 2. Support Groups: Joining a support group or talking to a therapist can provide guidance and help you navigate your feelings and experiences.

If you continue to experience significant mental health challenges, consider seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor.

Thank you

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Masturbation is a natural and common activity, and medically speaking, it’s generally safe for most people when done in moderation. The frequency of your masturbation becoming compulsive might contribute to some of the mental health symptoms you’ve described, but it doesn’t usually impact semen quality or fertility in a harmful way. The quality and ability of semen to cause pregnancy are typically linked more to factors like overall health, genetics, lifestyle, and diet. Regarding your concerns, long-term frequent masturbation habit is unlikely to decrease your fertility directly. However, if it’s affecting your mental health and daily functioning, addressing it is important. For improving your mental and physical health, consider making positive changes to your lifestyle. Regular physical activity can enhance mood, reduce stress, and improve energy levels. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week. Consider incorporating strength training exercises if feasible. Balanced nutrition is key — include vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins as staples in your diet. Limit processed foods, high sugar, and excessive caffeine intake. These changes can support better physical and mental health. If you’re struggling with compulsive masturbation, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) could be a useful way to manage these behaviors. It focuses on understanding and altering patterns of behavior linked to compulsive activities. Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and yoga, can also be instrumental in managing stress and improving your focus and mood. Addressing depression and anxiety directly through professional help—like structured therapy or, if suggested, medications—might be necessary if these symptoms are significantly impacting your life. Consulting with a therapist or counselor who specializes in sexual health and mental health issues might provide you with structured support tailored to your needs. If your symptoms of depression worsen, or you have any thoughts of harming yourself, it is crucial to reach out to a healthcare professional immediately.

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Dr. Bharat Joshi
I’m a periodontist and academician with a strong clinical and teaching background. Over the last 4 years and 8 months, I’ve been actively involved in dental education, guiding students at multiple levels including dental hygienist, BDS, and MDS programs. Currently, I serve as a Reader at MMCDSR in Ambala, Haryana—a role that allows me to merge my academic passion with hands-on experience. Clinically, I’ve been practicing dentistry for the past 12 years. From routine procedures like scaling and root planing to more advanced cases involving grafts, biopsies, and implant surgeries. Honestly, I still find joy in doing a simple RCT when it’s needed. It’s not just about the procedure but making sure the patient feels comfortable and safe. Academically, I have 26 research publications to my credit. I’m on the editorial boards of the Archives of Dental Research and Journal of Dental Research and Oral Health, and I’ve spent a lot of time reviewing manuscripts—from case reports to meta-analyses and even book reviews. I was honored to receive the “Best Editor” award by Innovative Publications, and Athena Publications recognized me as an “excellent reviewer,” which honestly came as a bit of a surprise! In 2025, I had the opportunity to present a guest lecture in Italy on traumatic oral lesions. Sharing my work and learning from peers globally has been incredibly fulfilling. Outside academics and clinics, I’ve also worked in the pharmaceutical sector as a Drug Safety Associate for about 3 years, focusing on pharmacovigilance. That role really sharpened my attention to detail and deepened my understanding of drug interactions and adverse effects. My goal is to keep learning, and give every patient and student my absolute best.
56 days ago
5

Hello dear See as per your clinical history it seems mental stress due to either involvement of premature ejaculation or erectile dysfunction chances. Iam suggesting some preventive measures for improvement First try to follow them They will definitely bring improvement Avoid heavy meals and alcohol Take ashwagandha or triphala once a day for 2 months Do meditation Do physical exercises atleast for half an hour Especially kegel exercises Take shilajeet for 1 month once a day Do meditation daily for mental health Engage in hobbies like reading and writing Indulge in social media for good interaction Kindly follow these precautions In case of no improvement consult gynaecologist in person for better clarity Hopefully you recover soon Regards

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Dr. Shayeque Reza
I completed my medical degree in 2023, but honestly, my journey in healthcare started way before that. Since 2018, I’ve been actively involved in clinical practice—getting hands-on exposure across multiple departments like ENT, pediatrics, dermatology, ophthalmology, medicine, and emergency care. One of the most intense and defining phases of my training was working at a District Government Hospital for a full year during the COVID pandemic. It was chaotic, unpredictable, and exhausting—but it also grounded me in real-world medicine like no textbook ever could. Over time, I’ve worked in both OPD and IPD setups, handling everything from mild viral fevers to more stubborn, long-term conditions. These day-to-day experiences really built my base and taught me how to stay calm when things get hectic—and how to adjust fast when plans don’t go as expected. What I’ve learned most is that care isn't only about writing the right medicine. It’s about being fully there, listening properly, and making sure the person feels seen—not just treated. Alongside clinical work, I’ve also been exposed to preventive health, health education, and community outreach. These areas really matter to me because I believe real impact begins outside the hospital, with awareness and early intervention. My approach is always centered around clarity, empathy, and clinical logic—I like to make sure every patient knows exactly what’s going on and why we’re doing what we’re doing. I’ve always felt a pull towards general medicine and internal care, and honestly, I’m still learning every single day—each patient brings a new lesson. Medicine never really sits still, it keeps shifting, and I try to shift with it. Not just in terms of what I know, but also in how I listen and respond. For me, it’s always been about giving real care. Genuine, respectful, and the kind that actually helps a person heal—inside and out.
55 days ago
5

This requires personal consultation and counselling for better assurance.

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Dr. Nikhil Chauhan
I am currently working as a urologist and kidney transplant surgeon at Graphic Era Medical College & Hospital, Dehradun. It's a role that keeps me on my toes, honestly. I handle a pretty wide range of urology cases—stones, prostate issues, urinary tract obstructions, infections, you name it. Some are straightforward, others way more complex than you expect at first glance. Every patient walks in with a different story and that’s what keeps the work real for me. Kidney transplant surgery, though, that’s a whole different zone. You’re not just working on anatomy—you’re dealing with timelines, matching, medications, family dynamics, emotional pressure... and yeah, very precise coordination. I’m part of a team that manages the entire transplant process—from evaluation to surgery to post-op care. Not gonna lie, it’s intense. But seeing someone who’s been on dialysis for years finally get a new shot at life—there’s nothing really like that feeling. In the OR, I’m detail-focused. Outside of it, I try to stay accessible—patients don’t always need answers right away, sometimes they just need to feel heard. I believe in walking them through what’s going on rather than just giving reports and instructions. Especially in transplant cases, trust matters. And clear, honest conversation helps build that. Urology itself is such a misunderstood field sometimes. People ignore symptoms for years because it feels “awkward” or they think it’s not serious until it becomes unmanageable. I’ve had patients who came in late just because they were embarassed to talk about urine flow or testicular pain. That’s why I also try to make the space judgment-free—like whatever it is, we’ll figure it out. At the end of the day, whether I’m scrubbing in for surgery or doing OPD rounds, I just want to make sure what I do *actually* helps. That the effort’s not wasted. And yeah, some days are frustrating—some procedures don’t go clean, some recoveries take longer than they should—but I keep showing up, cause the work’s worth doing. Always is.
55 days ago
5

Hello

Thanks for reaching out and sharing your concerns so openly.

Long‑term frequent masturbation, even for many years, does not cause permanent damage to fertility; sperm count and semen quality usually recover fully within days to weeks after reducing frequency.

Semen may appear thinner or in less quantity with very frequent ejaculation, but this is typically temporary and does not make you infertile or unable to cause pregnancy.

Your symptoms of low mood, anxiety, fatigue, and guilt are more likely linked to compulsive behavior and negative thoughts about masturbation rather than physical harm from semen loss.

To recover, focus on regular sleep, exercise, healthy diet, structured daily routine, and limiting porn/sexual triggers; these lifestyle measures help energy, mood, and sexual health together.

Dr Nikhil Chauhan Urologist

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