Doctor Tra Anh Duy of Men's Health Center reported that a 32-year-old patient sought treatment for "loss of sensation during intimacy". Despite being young, a non-smoker, non-drinker, and exercising regularly, his medical history revealed he had been using an automatic artificial vagina one to two times daily for two years. This subjected his genitourinary nervous system to repeated, intense, and consistent stimulation – a level difficult to replicate in real intercourse.
"When the brain becomes overly accustomed to artificial pleasure, the natural stimulation threshold rises, leading to desensitization and diminished erectile reflexes," Doctor Duy stated.
Tests showed the patient had normal testosterone and prolactin levels, but elevated cortisol – a stress hormone – which contributed to reduced libido and sexual dysfunction. Doctors diagnosed him with erectile dysfunction resulting from overstimulation and a deviated sexual reflex. This condition occurs when the brain "learns" to achieve pleasure through devices, causing arousal signals from a partner to become weak, insufficient to maintain an erection or create excitement.
The patient was instructed to stop using the device and participate in behavioral therapy and a sensate focus program. After three months, his natural erectile reflexes recovered, and sexual excitement during intercourse improved.
According to Doctor Duy, similar conditions are becoming increasingly common among young men. Sex toys are a growing consumer trend, particularly among urban youth. Beyond women, many men now use devices like artificial vaginas, vibrators, or automatic suction devices for discreet and safe "tension relief".
Many men experience reduced pleasure, difficulty maintaining erections, or loss of interest in real intercourse after prolonged sex toy abuse. While sex toys are not inherently bad, excessive use can cause the brain to prioritize artificial pleasure. Re-establishing emotional connection and real stimulation is essential for physiological recovery.
Experts advise men to view sex devices as supplementary tools, not for frequent use or as a complete replacement for real intercourse. Products should have clear origins and be cleaned thoroughly after each use to prevent infection. When experiencing signs of reduced libido, difficulty achieving orgasm, or erectile dysfunction, early consultation is recommended for timely assessment and intervention.
Le Phuong
