On 24/8, Doctor Tra Anh Duy of Men's Health, reported on a patient whose tests came back normal, but was diagnosed with arousal disorder due to dependence on unusual stimulation. Due to his habit of frequenting massage parlors, he gradually became aroused only by strong, unusual stimulation, different from typical sexual activity.

After three months of treatment with PDE5 medication combined with behavioral therapy, the patient's condition improved. The doctor recommended continued sexual response training in a safe environment for full functional recovery.

According to Doctor Duy, therapeutic massage is a long-standing healthcare practice, beneficial for musculoskeletal health, blood circulation, sleep, and mental well-being. However, when distorted into illicit sexual activity, massage can have serious consequences for men's sexual health. One common consequence is psychologically induced sexual dysfunction, a result of biological, neurological, and endocrine reactions triggered by negative emotions. The three most apparent psychological factors are anxiety, guilt, and dependence on non-standard stimulation.

A study by Dunn et al. in Sexual and Relationship Therapy found that deviant yet intensely arousing sexual experiences can alter the brain's reward mechanisms, leading to decreased arousal and erectile dysfunction in normal sexual settings.

Doctor Duy advises men to be aware of the risks of illicit massage, as dependence on unusual stimulation can lead to sexual dysfunction and even affect family life. He recommends choosing reputable massage establishments for legitimate therapeutic purposes and seeking prompt medical attention if experiencing unusual symptoms such as decreased libido, difficulty with arousal, or arousal only in unusual contexts. Timely treatment helps restore sexual function and prevents long-term complications.

Le Phuong