Highlights
- “Death grip syndrome” is a non-medical term used to describe difficulties with climax caused by getting used to one specific method of masturbation.
- Some men apply strong pressure on their penis due to reduced sensitivity caused by a medical condition.
- Relying on a single specific masturbation technique may lead to erectile difficulties during sex with a partner.
- Psychological factors also play a role in “death grip syndrome.”
- Techniques to overcome this sexual problem include taking a break from solo play and learning to enjoy more subtle touch.
It’s every man’s nightmare — to one day wake up and not be able to achieve sexual satisfaction. While it’s not common, it does happen, and it’s commonly called “death Grip Syndrome.” Getting used to frequent, strong stimulation of the penis may cause problems in partner sex, including erectile dysfunction. Thankfully, Death Grip Syndrome is reversible in most cases.
What Is the Death Grip Syndrome?
The term “death grip syndrome” applies to men who get so used to a certain type of stimulation of the penis that they struggle to climax in other ways. The most common culprit is masturbation using the same strong grip each time.
For some, speed also plays a role — you can’t always recreate the tempo you use to masturbate when you’re having intercourse.
Death grip syndrome is not a medical term, but you’ll find discussions about it in men’s online forums and sex advice websites. Since it’s not a dysfunction classified in medical literature, there are no reliable statistics on its prevalence.
What Causes Death Grip Syndrome?
Why does the man’s penis lose responsiveness to touch and friction? Here are three common scenarios that sex therapists hear from clients.
- Teenage habits. The man learns how to masturbate in his teenage years. Since sexuality is still a taboo in our society, he learns to bring himself to climax fast. To achieve orgasm in the shortest time possible, he uses a tight grip on his penis. He continues with this pattern into adulthood. Once he finds a partner, he realizes that the stimulation during intercourse is not enough to get to orgasm.
- Medical factors. For some men, the problem begins later and may be related to a health condition. Taking certain medications may reduce sexual sensations. Some conditions, including diabetes, are known to cause nerve damage, including erectile tissue damage. If your nerves are not sensitive to touch, you may need to apply more pressure to achieve satisfaction.
- Stress relief. Another possible risk factor is using vigorous masturbation as a way to reduce stress. Repeating the same method of stroking the penis and doing it frequently may result in problems with orgasm during sex with another person.
Repeating the same masturbation pattern may cause sexual problems
Identifying the Symptoms of Death Grip Syndrome
You won’t find a detailed list of “death grip syndrome” symptoms in textbooks, but men who have it report similar changes in their sexual functioning.
- They have decreased sensitivity in the penis. If you notice that your genitals don’t react to touch like they used to, for example, your penis is numb or you need stronger pressure than you used to, this could be the result of desensitization.
- They need a special type of stimulation. Variety in masturbation is as important as in partner sex. If you always pleasure yourself in the same position, holding your hand at the same angle and applying the same pressure, you may find it difficult to climax during intercourse or oral sex.
- They have difficulty experiencing orgasm. Some men can climax with ease when using their tried and tested masturbation techniques. For others, getting to orgasm is always a struggle, both during solo play and sex with a partner.
If you notice sudden numbness in your penis, symptoms of penile damage, or a tendency toward delayed orgasm, speak with a doctor. In rare cases, death grip syndrome may be linked to something more serious, such as erectile tissue damage or penile fracture.
Does Death Grip Syndrome Cause Erectile Dysfunction?
While there are no scientific studies to prove that death grip syndrome is a direct cause of ED, patient reports suggest that reduced sensitivity may contribute to erectile difficulties.
In the absence of well-known stimulation, getting to orgasm may feel like hard labor. What’s more, in some cases the touch of your partner’s hand or mouth may not be enough to give you an erection.
Even if you’re able to have penetrative intercourse, the lack of the intense stimulation from masturbation may delay climax and your body may get too tired to maintain an erection for prolonged periods.
The most extreme (but thankfully, unlikely) scenario of developing ED as a result of death grip syndrome would end in permanent penile damage linked to erectile tissue injury caused by extreme and prolonged stimulation. There are rare case reports of penile injury following very vigorous masturbation.
It’s also possible that men with erectile dysfunction may develop death grip syndrome in an attempt to achieve an erection through quick strokes and strong grip.
The Psychological Aspect of Death Grip Syndrome
The implications of death grip syndrome go beyond the physical. The difficulty of reaching climax impacts men’s confidence and relationships, too.
For some men, their mental state is the underlying cause of the problem. If you’re going through depression, for example, your ability to feel pleasure may be limited. In addition, treatment with some antidepressants can further affect the ability to experience orgasm.
Masturbating or having intercourse and not being able to finish can cause frustration and shame. You may feel like you’re failing as a man. If the situation persists, your partner may also get impatient or start worrying that you’ve lost sexual interest. As a result, you may end up in a relationship crisis.
Treatment Options and Strategies
Since death grip syndrome is not an official medical condition, there are no proven treatment options. The first step should be to consult a doctor and determine whether a medical condition is behind your sexual challenges.
When you’ve ruled out a medical cause, try these strategies and techniques to increase the sensitivity of your penis.
- Take a break from masturbation. Many sex therapists suggest taking a break from solo play for at least a week. If you’ve been masturbating with the same heavy grip for a long time, you may need a longer pause.
- Ease back into it. When you’re ready to resume sexual stimulation, do it slowly. Try gentle strokes and add lots of lubricant to reduce friction. Pace yourself, and if you get too aroused, stop and breathe. Teach your body to react to subtle touch and movement. If you have a partner, you may agree not to use your own hands on your penis for a few weeks. Embrace the new sensations coming from your lover’s touch.
- Alter masturbation techniques. To maintain your ability to have an orgasm in changing circumstances, you shouldn’t rely on one method of solo play. Try edging to gain awareness of your body, and change positions, pressure, and speed.
- Check out sex toys. If the temptation to go back to old, heavy stroking habits is big, buy a male masturbator. These tube-like devices are designed to recreate the feeling of penetration. They also use vibrations of varying intensities to get you to climax. Start with the lowest intensity and avoid relying on maximum settings.
- Prevent recurring problems. Death grip syndrome is usually reversible, but getting rid of it once doesn’t mean it won’t return. Build healthy masturbation habits based on body awareness and moderation. The more you understand yourself, the easier it will be to notice early signs of problems.
“No more masturbating with the death grip — subtle sensations only — and no more grabbing yourself toward the end of partnered sex and “finishing yourself off,” as many men with your issue do.” – Dan Savage, sex columnist
Sex toys for men can help you overcome death grip syndrome.
The Role of Therapy in Addressing Death Grip Syndrome
One of the best ways to put death grip syndrome behind you is getting therapy. If your sexual problems are related to depression, anxiety, or stress, psychotherapy will help you feel better and give you the tools to manage tension without resorting to extreme forms of masturbation.
Working with a sex therapist may prove invaluable in introducing behavioral changes that support pleasure without causing difficulties in partnered sex. A sex counselor can give you ideas for stimulation techniques and teach you mindfulness and breathing methods.
For relationships affected by death grip syndrome, couples’ therapy is a great way to rebuild intimacy and improve communication. Together, you can overcome sexual obstacles and create memorable erotic moments.
“The idea is to be able to be responsive to more than one kind of stimulation, so that you can enjoy a range of responses.” – Michael A. Perelman, PhD, sex therapist.
Fostering a Healthy Relationship With Sexuality
If you notice symptoms of death grip syndrome, don’t panic or rely on online advice. Take charge of your sexual health and get in touch with a doctor. Try to understand the cause of your concerns, and adapt strategies to recover your ability to have orgasms.
If there are additional issues, such as erectile dysfunction, your physician may prescribe Viagra, Cialis, Vardenafil, or Stendra.
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Disclaimer: This article provides general information about health and related topics but is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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