Doctor explains what happens to your body when you don’t have s** or mas*****te  for months

Have you ever wondered what really happens to your body if you go for an extended period without s** or mas******ion? While fads like ‘No Nut November’ have popularized the idea of abstaining for a month, some people choose to go even longer. But is this good for your body? A s** and relationship expert recently weighed in on this topic, revealing some surprising physical and mental effects of long-term abstinence.

The Growing Trend of ‘No Nut November’

Before diving into the physical implications, let’s address the trend that sparks curiosity every year: ‘No Nut November.’ This social media-driven challenge encourages people—mainly men—to abstain from both s** and mas******ion throughout November. The movement claims potential benefits like increased testosterone, improved mental clarity, and better focus. But what really happens when someone abstains from all forms of s***** release for months?

How Abstinence Affects Your Body: The Basics

Abstaining from s** or mas******ion for an extended period affects more than just your s** drive. Dr. Tara, a s** and relationship expert, explains that a lack of s***** activity can impact your body in surprising ways. While some might experience physical changes, others may notice shifts in their mental and emotional well-being.

1. Hormonal Changes and Mood Swings

S** and mas******ion trigger the release of hormones like dopamine, oxytocin, and serotonin, which are linked to feelings of happiness, bonding, and stress relief. When you go without these natural mood boosters for months, your brain’s chemical balance can shift.

• Increased Stress Levels: Without regular s***** activity, your body misses out on the natural stress-relief benefits of orgasm. This can lead to increased feelings of stress, anxiety, and irritability.
• Potential Depression: Dr. Tara warns that long-term abstinence can contribute to depressive symptoms, especially for those who struggle with mental health issues. The absence of dopamine release, which is associated with pleasure and reward, can make people feel less motivated and more prone to negative thoughts.

2. Physical Changes: The Risk of Penile Atrophy

One of the most surprising revelations from Dr. Tara is that long-term abstinence in men can potentially lead to a rare condition called penile atrophy.

• What Is Penile Atrophy? Penile atrophy occurs when the tissue of the penis becomes less elastic, causing it to shrink slightly over time. While this sounds alarming, it’s important to note that it’s rare and typically associated with aging, lack of blood flow, or certain medical conditions. However, the absence of regular erections—whether through s** or mas******ion —can contribute to a decrease in elasticity.
• How Much Does It Shrink? Dr. Tara claims that penile tissue may shrink by a couple of centimeters if there’s a complete lack of s***** stimulation over a prolonged period. This can be exacerbated by other factors like smoking, weight gain, low testosterone levels, or certain medications.

3. Decreased Libido and S***** Desire

Abstinence can also affect your overall s** drive. While some believe that abstaining from s***** activity can build s***** energy, others may experience a decreased libido.

• Libido Decline: The ‘use it or lose it’ theory suggests that s***** desire and arousal may diminish over time if they are not regularly stimulated. This can lead to a cycle of low libido, where the longer you abstain, the less you may want to engage in s***** activity.
• Impact on S***** Performance: Dr. Tara points out that abstinence might also affect s***** performance. When the body goes without regular arousal and release, some men may find it harder to achieve or maintain an erection when they resume s***** activity.

4. Mental Impact of Prolonged Abstinence

The mental effects of long-term abstinence extend beyond mood swings. According to Dr. Tara, abstaining from s***** activity can also affect confidence, self-esteem, and social interactions.

• Lower Self-Esteem: S***** activity is not just about physical pleasure; it also boosts confidence and self-esteem. People who abstain for long periods might start to feel disconnected from their bodies or less desirable, which can affect their overall sense of self-worth.
• Potential for Social Withdrawal: Some people may experience social withdrawal or feel less motivated to seek romantic or intimate relationships. This can be particularly true for those who associate s***** activity with emotional intimacy and bonding.

Too Much of a Good Thing? The Risks of Excessive mas******ion

While abstinence comes with its challenges, the opposite end of the spectrum—excessive mas******ion—has its own set of risks. Dr. Andrew Huberman, a neuroscientist who appeared on the Modern Wisdom podcast, discusses the impact of excessive pornography use on s***** health and mental well-being.

• Dopamine Imbalance: Huberman explains that constant exposure to pornography can desensitize the brain’s dopamine response, leading to a decreased ability to feel aroused by real-life s***** encounters. This can make it harder for individuals to enjoy intimacy with a partner.
• Becoming a Voyeur: Huberman warns that relying too heavily on pornography can turn individuals into “voyeurs,” who are more aroused by watching others than by engaging in their own intimate experiences. This can create challenges in forming meaningful connections with real-life partners.

Balancing Abstinence and S***** Activity: The Healthy Approach

The key to maintaining s***** health lies in balance. Whether you choose to abstain or engage in regular s***** activity, finding what works best for your physical and mental well-being is crucial.

• Listen to Your Body: If abstaining from s** or mas*****tion feels uncomfortable or negatively affects your mood, consider reintroducing s***** activity gradually.
• Consider Health Factors: If you notice changes in your s***** health, such as decreased libido or difficulty achieving arousal, it may be worth discussing with a healthcare professional.
• Maintain Intimacy: If you’re in a relationship, maintain non-s***** forms of intimacy like cuddling, kissing, or spending quality time together. These activities can boost oxytocin levels and help maintain emotional bonds.

Conclusion: Understanding the Effects of Abstinence on Your Body

Whether you’re participating in ‘No Nut November’ or choosing to abstain for personal reasons, it’s essential to understand how long-term abstinence can affect your body and mind. While some may find benefits in temporary abstinence, prolonged periods without s***** activity can lead to both physical and mental challenges. The healthiest approach is to find a balance that works for you, keeping in mind that s***** health is a vital component of overall well-being. Ultimately, whether you abstain or engage, maintaining open communication about your needs—with yourself and your partner—can promote a healthier, more fulfilling life.