Young men who view more pornography experiencing erectile dysfunction, study says

PHOENIX (KSAZ) - Young men who prefer pornography to real sexual encounters are unable to perform well with other people when the opportunity presents itself, according to a study recently conducted by a San Diego based urology clinic.

"Over time, a person can become over stimulated. Over stimulation causes the brain chemicals to change, specifically the neuro transmitter dopamine. Dopamine is responsible for feeling good, for feeling pleasure."

Sex therapist Dr. Morgan Francis especially agrees with the findings of the study that indicate porn-addicted men are more likely to suffer from erectile dysfunction.

She says the findings are necessarily shocking, but the age of those most affected is eye opening.

Porn could set an unrealistic expectation in young, inexperienced men.

"We are seeing a younger demographic of men, 18 to 35 year olds, that are experiencing erectile dysfunction. That's pretty young for a male to experience," Francis said.

The study surveyed 312 men from the ages of 20 to 40.

Twenty-six percent said they viewed pornography less than once a week, while 21 percent said three to five times a week. And five percent said they watch pornography up to 10 times a day.

Seventy-two percent used a computer, and 62 percent used a smart phone.

"Some of the things I look for to determine if a person is struggling with pornographic addiction would be, 'are they having problems stopping?' despite negative consequences," Francis said. "Is there problems with their interpersonal relationships with spouses or partners?"

Dr. Francis also warns that when a pleasurable distraction becomes a compulsion, such as when you start feeling lonely, depressed or ashamed, you might have a problem.