Expert: Florence M Rollwagen - 10/16/2008

Question
Biologically, is it possible to quit masturbating even though i have been doing it for years, and my body seems to oppose the idea of quitting. After a while i am kinda feeling like the guy in the movie 40 days 40 nights. Am i gonna be like normal after a while, or will i just go crazy by the sexual tension 4ever?

Answer
Hi Zack:  Thanks for your question.

I'm guessing that you are a young man, perhaps a teenager?

The sex drive is at its highest in men your age, so it's no surprise that masturbation is frequent.

Most physicians and scientists believe that masturbation is not harmful in the long run.  The only risk is becoming so intent on self pleasure that you forget the opposite sex.

Eventually, you will transfer your feelings to a sexual partner and it will take some time to get the same satisfaction.  You will have to practice!  But learning about each other's sexual pleasure is part of what cements a relationship.

Good luck, and write back if you have more questions.

FM Rollwagen, PhD