A Family Physician Specialist at the International Maritime Hospital in Tema, Dr. Yaa Akyaa Boateng, has emphasized that excessive masturbation can have long-term mental health consequences.
Therefore, individuals who are addicted to this behavior may require psychological support to mitigate potential side effects.
Masturbation is a form of autoeroticism where an individual sexually stimulates their own genitals to achieve sexual arousal or other sexual pleasure, often culminating in orgasm.
“Masturbation makes people less sensitive to romantic relationships and friendships because they will isolate themselves from loved ones, have difficulty forming attachments, and pay less attention to their needs,” she said.
Dr. Yaa Akyaa Boateng addressed the issue during the weekly health communication platform organized by the Ghana News Agency’s Tema Regional Office, titled “Your Health! Our Collective Responsibility!”
She discussed the topic of “Adolescent Health Awareness” and highlighted that excessive consumption of pornography could lead to the brain becoming conditioned to seek more stimulation from such materials rather than developing emotional connections with partners.
“So often when those who engage in masturbation are having sexual interactions, it is difficult to get aroused or even go through the act because it does not excite them any more,” she stated.
Dr. Yaa Akyaa Boateng noted that since masturbation doesn’t involve interaction with another person or the exchange of bodily fluids, the risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease is low.
However, she expressed concern about the excessive indulgence in this activity, particularly among young people, and its negative impact on adolescents.
Dr. Boateng recommended that individuals engaged in excessive masturbation, especially if it conflicts with their moral values or religious beliefs, should receive psychological attention to help them reverse or overcome this behavior.