It’s proven to reduce stress, help you fall asleep, and even improve your mood.
But doctors warn that an unconventional “self-pleasure” technique could increase a man’s risk of erectile dysfunction.
On TikTok, videos instructing social media users on how to practice the “edge” have attracted millions of views, with a similar appetite for the method among Instagram users.
It involves increasing sexual pleasure until moments before orgasm, and then stopping and starting again.
Its defenders claim that it has multiple benefits; Not only is it said to “intensify” orgasms, but some say it can help men last longer in the bedroom. However, experts have now issued a harsh health warning against it.
Edging Could Increase Risk of ED in Men, Warns Dr. Donald Grant
“Basically, the technique allows people to enjoy greater arousal before climax,” said Dr Donald Grant, GP and senior clinical advisor at The Independent Pharmacy.
However, he explains that prolonged exposure to singing could also have a “negative impact” on erectile function.
Dr. Grant explains that our bodies quickly become accustomed to our habits, even when it comes to sex and masturbation.
As a result, prolonged use of edging can cause the body to become desensitized to normal intercourse or masturbation techniques, requiring delayed gratification to climax.
Although there is no evidence that it affects your sex life in the long term, edging can certainly cause penile discomfort and temporary problems reaching orgasm.
“This can have a lasting impact on men’s ability to maintain stimulation, making it more difficult to achieve or maintain an erection, a common sign of erectile dysfunction that may require treatment,” Dr. Grant said.
There is also an increased risk of friction injuries, as well as the possibility of tears in the genital area due to “overstimulation.”
It warns that preventing orgasm can also cause testicular tension, also known as ‘blue balls’, which occurs when an erection lasts for a long period without reaching orgasm. It may cause pain and discomfort.
It is caused by increased pressure in the epididymis, which is the coiled tube that attaches to the site of sperm production. This can cause the blood vessels around the epididymis to become congested, giving the area a blue-gray tint.
Although it may be uncomfortable in the short term, the condition does not cause any lasting effects and can be relieved by allowing yourself to ejaculate, according to Lloyds Pharmacy.
“In general, like any masturbation technique or sexual activity, there are a number of risks to be aware of,” Dr. Grant said.
‘Edges vary from person to person in terms of length and frequency.
“I recommend monitoring the frequency of use of this technique and combining it with normal sexual intercourse and masturbation techniques to help protect against desensitization.”
He added: “With the increased risk of injury, it is also important to use lubricating products to prevent dry skin and chafing.
“It is interesting to discover the possible erection problems that men may face when they become nervous, since both stimulation and blood flow are affected in the short term.”