With the rise of the internet, more and more pornography (porn) is consumed daily. There is a simultaneous increase in the concern of non -health care professionals for mental health and sexual function of those who consume it. Some users on the internet describe “porn addiction”, also known as problematic consumption of pornography (PPC), guilty of their sexual dysfunction. Others say they feel insecure about their sexual abilities after comparing people who were filmed in porn videos online.
Although there is no official terminology or diagnosis of PPC, several terms have been proposed. It is not recognized in professional psychological communities or in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). However, international classification of diseases (ICD-11) lists for forced sexual behavior disorder (CSBD) as a possible category under which PPC could fall. However, the dispute with this classification is that PPC is referred to as “perceived PPC” in most literature: PPC is considered to be the eye of the viewer. In addition, men on the internet have been reported in erectile dysfunction caused by porn (ED), where they struggle to maintain an erection long for good sex due to excessive consumption of pornography.
However, the idea that pornography directly causes ED has been dissolved in recent years. Instead, there may be more indirect psychological reasons for the ED that can start with porn. For example, a man may feel insecure about his own show compared to men in pornographic videos. Erectile function is directly influenced by psychological and physical indicators. Thus, if it is involved in the insecurity and stress of performance, which can prevent the ability to achieve and maintain an erection.
In addition, the duration and frequency of pornography have been proposed as reasons for the ED. This theory has also contradicted, with some researchers who suggest that ED porn consumption is completely statutory. This means that all men who consume a lot of porn over long periods will experience ED – some men could even experience better sexual function and satisfaction. Instead, because PPC is perceived by some men, they may feel disgusted by themselves because they cannot control their impulses. This feeling of disgust often leads to further ed. Comparisons with porn stars can lead to even greater disgust with themselves, making it harder to perform with a partner and lead the circle to continue as more pornography is consumed.
Advice
Because consumption of porn or PPC is not necessarily considered CSBD, nor is it recognized in DSM-5, there are no standard recommendations for psychological or therapeutic treatments. However, it may be suggested to try detoxification from porn, along with the test of different visuals or senses (taste, sound, touch) to activate an erection or while masturbating. Some sex therapists may indicate behavioral treatments or mood stabilization medications. It may also be recommended to start using ED medicines or devices, as well as talk to a sexual therapist or other sexual health professional.
Reports:
Grubbs, JB, & Gola, M. (2019). Is the use of pornography associated with erectile function? Results of cross -sectional and latent curve analysis. The magazine of sexual medicine; 16(1), 111-125.
Jacobs, T., Geysemans, B., Van Hal, G., Glazemakers, I., Fog-Poulsen, K., Vermandel, A., De Wachter, S., & De Win, G. (2021). Links between eating online pornography and sexual dysfunction in young men: multiplier analysis based on international internet -based research. JMIR Public Health and Monitoring; 7(10).
Krans, B. (2020, November 17). Can porn cause erectile dysfunction?. Healthline.
Gender Dependence: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Recovery. Clinic of Cleveland. (2025, June 2).
Whelan, G., & Brown, J. (2021). Dependence on pornography: Exploring the association between use, perceived addiction, erectile dysfunction, early (early) ejaculation and sexual satisfaction in men aged 18-44 years. The magazine of sexual medicine; 18(9), 1582-1591.
