What are health impacts of masturbation?
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The health impacts of masturbation, particularly regarding neurochemistry and behavior, involve dopamine fluctuations. and Dr. Kyle Gillette discuss how intense sexual experiences, including those related to masturbation and pornography, can influence dopamine levels significantly.
When someone has an intense sexual experience, it can deplete dopamine in the brain, leading to a "crash" or a significant dip in dopamine levels afterward. This can result in depressive episodes and periods of reduced libido 1. Striking a balance in dopamine levels is crucial to prevent long-term negative effects such as low motivation and decreased pleasure in daily activities. It's essential to manage the intensity of such experiences to maintain healthy dopamine levels and overall well-being.
Therefore, while masturbation itself is a common and typically healthy sexual activity, excessive or highly intense experiences—particularly when coupled with pornography—can lead to these neurochemical fluctuations, impacting mood and libido negatively.
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