is watching porn bad - #22266
I am kinda freaking out about this whole idea of whether is watching porn bad or not. Like, I never really thought much about it until a few weeks ago when my girlfriend said she found some of my history and got super upset. I mean, I thought it was just normal, but now I’m starting to wonder! I've been watching it for years, probably since I was a teenager, and I didn’t think it was affecting me. But then she started talking about how it can mess with your brain and our relationship. I’ve noticed that sometimes after is watching porn bad stuff, I feel guilty or kinda weird, but other times, it feels like a release or something. I dunno if it’s just me, and like, maybe I’m using it as a crutch to avoid real intimacy? It’s all confusing! Should I cut it out completely? Are there any doctors here who’ve dealt with patients feeling this way? How do I balance is watching porn bad with a healthy sex life? Like, I just want some guidance on how to handle this without losing my mind or my girlfriend. Help!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors' responses
Watching porn is quite common and many people don’t think much of it, but it’s clear it can impact different aspects of life. Generally, watching porn isn’t inherently bad for everyone, but it can become a concern if it starts affecting your well-being, relationships, or your understanding of sexuality. If you find yourself feeling guilty or ashamed, or if your girlfriend is upset, it’s crucial to think about how it fits into your life and how it might be affecting your relationship. Porn can sometimes lead to unrealistic expectations about sex and intimacy, and may be used to avoid dealing with emotional issues. If you think it’s becoming a crutch, exploring why it’s appealing and what role it plays could help. Balancing it with a healthy sex life involves communication with your partner, understanding each other’s feelings, and establishing boundaries you both are comfortable with. You both might find it useful to talk openly about your needs and expectations regarding intimacy without the influence of porn. If you’re finding this difficult, seeing a therapist or counselor experienced in sexual health might offer more insight and help both of you navigate your feelings. This would be valuable if you’re trying to cut back or stop completely. They can also provide strategies to improve intimacy and connection in a healthier way. Remember, addressing things patiently and openly with your partner and possibly with professional guidance can lead to a stronger relationship.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.