Have you sensed a lower sense of stimulation while having intercourse with your partner? Does ejaculating seem like an impossible task? A lot of sexually healthy people find it hard to enjoy sex and think that masturbation is easier. If this narrative sounds familiar, you might suffer from the “Death Grip Syndrome.”
What is Death Grip Syndrome?
“Death grip syndrome” is when you grip too hard while masturbating, making your penis less sensitive. Hence causing difficulty in reaching orgasm during sex. The origin of the term is uncertain, but it is often attributed to sex columnist Dan Savage. It is believed to have originated in the early 2000s.
Is Death Grip Syndrome Real?
Death grip syndrome is not an officially recognized medical condition. Most of the evidence available is anecdotal, but it doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist.
Some experts think that DGS is a subset of delayed ejaculation (DE). Delayed ejaculation is a known form of erectile dysfunction.
The idea of the penis losing sensitivity because of too much stimulation isn’t new. Research shows that people who enjoy masturbation more than other kinds of sex are more likely to keep their specific masturbation habits.
There is limited research on the connection between masturbation habits and penile sensitivity. Some studies have shown that friction and pressure can impact the penis.
The research found that the constant pressure from cycling can cause numbness in the penis and ED.
A study from 2001 found that 61% of male cyclists reported numbness in their genitals due to exercise. 19% of those who trained for long distances reported experiencing ED due to their exercise habits.
This creates a vicious cycle where a person needs to increase the force of masturbation to counteract declining sensitivity.
In simpler terms: The more you do it, the less sensitive your penis becomes. Over time, this could be the only way to achieve an orgasm.
Symptoms of Death Grip Syndrome
The main symptom of DGS is trouble having orgasms and ejaculating during sex. This can lead to problems in relationships, like less closeness or preferring masturbation to sex.
DGS can affect people differently. Some may struggle a lot to orgasm during sex, while others may need more time or effort compared to masturbating.
What Causes Death Grip Syndrome?
When the penis gets a lot of stimulation, it can become less sensitive. So, if someone masturbates very often, they might not find regular sex exciting.
Some risk factors for Death Grip Syndrome include aging, medications, psychological issues, chronic diseases, and relationship problems. Here are a few things that can lead to this issue:
- Porn addiction: Watching too much unrealistic porn can lower your interest in real-life sex.
- Medical conditions: Diseases like diabetes can harm the nerves in the penis over time, making it harder to get aroused. Conditions like Peyronie’s disease and low testosterone can also lower your sex drive.
- Medications: Some antidepressants, like SSRIs, can cause sexual problems by affecting your brain’s chemicals.
- Performance anxiety: If you worry too much about satisfying your partner during sex, it can make it harder to feel pleasure.
- Vigorous masturbation: Using a very firm grip when you masturbate can make your nerves used to strong touch, making regular sex less satisfying.
A study in 2001 found that over 60% of male cyclists experienced numbness in their genitals, which suggests that constant friction and exercise can reduce sensitivity. Even men who masturbate in a healthy way can still have Death Grip Syndrome because they think it’s more pleasurable than sex.
How to Treat Death Grip Syndrome?
While this is a notorious sexual dysfunction, it has promising treatment options available:
See a doctor:
They can check for any underlying issues causing DGS. For performance anxiety or relationship problems, you might want to consult a psychotherapist or relationship counselor.
Reduce porn:
Cut down on watching porn to regain sensitivity. Try avoiding erotic content for at least a week to refocus your desires on real-life activities. Keep busy with hobbies.
Masturbate gently:
When you do masturbate, go slow and use a gentle grip. Try different techniques that are less intense on your genitals.
Talk to your partner:
Communicate with your partner about your preferences and what you enjoy during sex. Take your time with foreplay, which can increase your desire to climax even with less precise stimulation.
How long does it take to cure Death Grip?
Many people wonder how long it takes to cure Death Grip Syndrome. Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The recovery time can vary depending on various factors, including
- the severity of the condition
- how long it has been going on
- how committed you are to making positive changes.
Some people may see improvements in a few weeks or months, while others may take longer. It’s essential to be patient with yourself and not get discouraged if progress seems slow. Recovering from Death Grip Syndrome takes time, effort, and perseverance.
Everyone’s body and sexual experiences are unique. Hence, the healing process may differ from person to person. The key is to focus on retraining your body and mind to respond to different types of stimulation and finding what works best for you.
In some cases, seeking help from a doctor can provide valuable guidance and support. They can help tailor a treatment plan to your specific needs. Doctors can also offer strategies to overcome any challenges you may face.
Ultimately, the goal is to restore a healthy and satisfying sexual experience. By staying committed, exploring different techniques, and seeking support when needed, you can overcome Death Grip Syndrome and improve your sexual health.
Why is Death Grip Syndrome Harmful to Your Sexual Health?
Death Grip Syndrome can harm your sexual health in several ways. Using a tight grip and strong movements can make your genitals less sensitive over time. This can make it hard to feel pleasure or reach orgasm during sex, alone or with a partner. This can lead to frustration and unhappiness in your sex life.
Also, it can make your body only respond to one kind of stimulation. If you rely on a tight grip and intense motions when you masturbate, it can be tough to get turned on or have an orgasm in other ways. This can cause problems when you have sex with a partner because their touch may not work like what your body is used to.
Furthermore, it can reduce your interest in sex overall. If you’re not as interested or have trouble getting aroused, it can strain your relationships and make your sex life less enjoyable.
It’s important to deal with Death Grip Syndrome and its effects on your sexual health so you can have a good sex life again. Getting the right treatment and using strategies to change how your body responds can help you overcome this issue and have a satisfying sex life.
Can Death Grip Syndrome Be Prevented?
To prevent Death Grip Syndrome, start with healthy masturbation habits. Use a gentle grip and try different techniques. Avoid using too much pressure so your body doesn’t get used to it.
Also, explore different ways to enjoy sex alone or with a partner. Use things like lubrication, sex toys, or watching erotic stuff to make sex more varied and not rely on one kind of stimulation.
Managing stress and anxiety is important too. Being too stressed can make you grip too tightly when you masturbate, which can lead to this problem. To reduce stress, take care of yourself, do relaxation exercises, and seek support when you need it.
Remember, it’s better to prevent this issue by having good habits and taking care of your sexual health. This way, you can enjoy a healthy and satisfying sex life.
Overcoming Masturbation Addiction
Overcoming a masturbation addiction is tough, but it’s possible with the right help and strategies. The first step is realizing you have a problem, and it’s not a personal weakness but a complex issue.
One way to beat it is by setting healthy boundaries and goals, like limiting how often and how long you masturbate. Making a schedule can help you stick to these limits.
Talking to loved ones or joining a support group can also help. Being open about your struggles can give you guidance and encouragement. Professionals who specialize in addiction can provide more help and strategies.
Finding other ways to cope and stay busy is important, too. Hobbies, exercise, mindfulness, and managing stress in healthy ways can shift your focus away from addiction.
Remember, beating a masturbation addiction takes time and effort. Be kind to yourself and celebrate every small step toward recovery. With determination and support, you can regain control of your life and build a healthier future.
Life after Death Grip Syndrome: How to Improve Your Sex Life.
One important aspect of life after Death Grip Syndrome is communication. Openly discuss your experiences, needs, and desires with your partner. Clear and honest communication can help both of you understand each other’s boundaries, preferences, and goals. By working together, you can explore new techniques and find what brings you both pleasure and satisfaction.
It’s also crucial to continue experimenting and diversifying your sexual experiences. Don’t be afraid to try new things, whether it’s incorporating toys, exploring different positions, or incorporating role play into your sex life. Be open to exploration and maintain an adventurous mindset.
Self-care plays a significant role in improving your sex life. Take care of your physical and mental well-being by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Engage in regular exercise, eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep, and manage stress effectively. When you prioritize self-care, you’re better equipped to enjoy and engage in your sexual experiences fully.
Remember to celebrate progress along the way. Small victories and improvements are worth acknowledging and celebrating. Building a healthy sex life takes time and patience, so don’t be too hard on yourself. Embrace the journey and appreciate the positive changes you’re making.
Takeaway
Death grip syndrome is not highlighted in medical books. It is the end result of several inappropriate sexual practices, the most common being masturbation. While there’s nothing wrong with masturbating, doing it the right way becomes the primary weapon to tackle untoward dysfunctions.
Keep it natural and healthy, don’t grip too hard, and try to have minimal contact. Limiting the frequency to a couple of times a week would also aid. Incorporating such lifestyle changes can go a long way in tackling DGS. If no improvement is seen, seek medical attention.
References:
- Death Grip Syndrome: How to Avoid it & How to Cure it – Promescent. https://www.promescent.com/blogs/learn/death-grip-syndrome (accessed 4 Dec2022).
- Abdel-Hamid IA, Ali OI. Delayed Ejaculation: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment. World J Mens Health 2018; 36: 22. https://wjmh.org/DOIx.php?id=10.5534/wjmh.17051
- Increase Penis Sensitivity and Have Better Sex. https://rexmd.com/learn/increase-penis-sensitivity (accessed 4 Dec2022).
- Jenkins LC, Mulhall JP. Delayed orgasm and anorgasmia. Fertil Steril 2015; 104: 1082–1088. https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0015028215019573
- Sommer F, König D, Graf C, Schwarzer U, Bertram C, Klotz T et al. Impotence and genital numbness in cyclists. Int J Sports Med 2001; 22: 410–413. https://www.thieme-connect.de/products/ejournals/abstract/10.1055/s-2001-16248
- Death Grip Syndrome: What It Is & How to Treat It – Paramount Men’s Medical Center. https://paramountmensmedical.com/blog/death-grip-syndrome-what-it-is-how-to-treat/ (accessed 4 Dec2022).
- Abdel-Hamid IA, Ali OI. Spontaneous Ejaculation: A Focused Review for the Clinicians. Sex Med Rev 2021; 9: 406–422. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2050052120301165?via%3Dihub
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