ED happens when a person has trouble getting or keeping an erection that is hard enough for penetrative sex.
Despite that, the use of porn is pervasive.
Soon after these porn-tube sites became prevalent, researchers noticed that ED in younger people was becoming more common.
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Around 2000, rates of ED in men who were under 40 were around 2% to 5%.
By 2011, studies were reporting that 14% to 28% of men under 40 were experiencing ED.
Its important to note that this correlation does not necessarily mean that porn use is causing erectile dysfunction.
However, it does have researchers examining a possible link between porn and ED.
How Does It Happen?
Erectile dysfunction is typically associated with aging.
Erectile dysfunction is linked with underlying physical issues, including cardiovascular disease, obesity, and neurological disorders.
However, the causes of erectile dysfunction can also be mental or emotional.
Men who are under stress or who feel pressured to perform might experience ED.
Further, the ED itself can lead to loss of self-esteem, shame, anxiety, and depression.
Porn and the Brain
Although sex involves physical activity,sexual arousal starts in the brain.
In response to sexual stimuli, the brain releases a neurotransmitter that causes the penis to get hard.
Researchers have hypothesized that the increased exposure to porn causes people to be less reactive to sexual stimuli.
Additional Causes
Its important to rule out other causes of erectile dysfunction beyond porn-induced ED.
Can Porn Be Healthy?
Only you and your partner can decide what level of porn watching is healthy within your relationship.
There is no shame or concern in watching porn if you are an adult.
Just remember to keep communication open with your partner (if you have one).
And check in with yourself periodically about whether porn is affecting your sex life, either positively or negatively.
How Is Erectile Dysfunction Treated?
Be sure to discuss Viagra use with your healthcare provider.
Porn Addiction and Seeking Help
Some people might need guidance in overcoming their porn-induced ED.
Can Porn Be Addictive?
Scientists are still split about whether porn is addictive.
Summary
Theres not yet a definitive link between porn use and erectile dysfunction.
Some people find that reducing their porn consumption can reduce their episodes of ED.
But other steps, like exercising and eating healthy, may also help.
Talk with your partner about how much porn should be a part of your healthy sex life.
They canprescribe medicationsto help you get and maintain an erection.
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