Who has a personal account of seeing improvements in partnered-sex after quitting porn and masturbation?

[righteous99]

I know this is a controversial topic, and the studies are inconclusive. But I am starting to wonder if this issue of PIED has really been the source of my issues. I know the host of this site believes that this issue exists, but I was curious if anyone had a personal account of how getting away from pornography improved their erection quality and how long the process took for a recovery:
Thanks!

 

[Trickety]

I see it's been a while since you've posted, but I just want to ask—has anyone found that patience or emotional connection with a partner changed noticeably after quitting? I’m trying to figure out if the benefits go beyond just physical performance. Also, how long did it take for you to notice a difference, if any? Looking to hear more real experiences from those who stuck with it.

 

[Walkerso]

I noticed I was way more present with my partner after quitting—better eye contact, real connection, and sex felt deeper emotionally and physically. No more brain fog or guilt.

 

[Vince]

I like this thread. Personally I have limited experience. I never was a big fan of p***. I do use my mind a lot even when having sex or masturbating.

 

[Nelson Vergel]

I notice that I am also more present with my partner and return to my horny ways. Porn really is an addiction that robs us of endogenous dopamine and drive. We become pacified. I notice I do it when I am bored or can’t sleep.

But, like everything we discuss on this forum, moderation is key. The question is “what is a moderate use of porn?”

 

[Nelson Vergel]

Did a little more digging: Deep Dive: Research on Pornography Use, "Addiction," Mood, Libido, and Sexual Function in Men - Excel Male Health Forum

 

[BadassBlues]

I notice that I am also more present with my partner and return to my horny ways. Porn really is an addiction that robs us of endogenous dopamine and drive. We become pacified. I notice I do it when I am bored or can’t sleep.

But, like everything we discuss on this forum, moderation is key. The question is “what is a moderate use of porn?”

Some people are just wired to be vulnerable to addictive substances and activities. It's the addictive personality trait in certain people that cause them to be drawn in to the point of obsession and addiction. For those people, there is no moderation. The only answer is complete avoidance. If a couple chooses to watch the occasional erotic content and it enhances their intimacy, that is an example of moderation.

Some people can use porn and still function normally in real life sexual encounters. I see this mainly with the older guys. The real concern to me is that young people are seeing and experiencing porn before they ever actually have a real life encounter. Their concepts of reality are skewed to the point that real life intimacy seems bland by comparison. Missing is the emotional element.