A Real-World Observational Study Evaluating the Effects of 30 Days of Pornography Abstinence on Nocturnal Penile Tumescence, Sexual Function, and Well-Being in Adult Men
Trial Snapshot
- Phase
- Not Applicable
- Status
- Recruiting
- Sponsor
- Enrollment
- 100
- Locations
- 1
Study Overview
Brief Summary
The effects of pornography use on male sexual health remain uncertain, with mixed findings across existing literature and substantial variability at the individual level. This observational study is designed to help participants evaluate how a 30-day period of pornography abstinence affects their own sexual health and well-being, with a specific focus on nocturnal penile tumescence as a physiological biomarker.
Participants will complete a short baseline observation period during which they maintain their usual pornography consumption patterns, followed by a 30-day abstinence period. Objective nocturnal erection data will be collected using a connected wearable device, alongside validated self-report questionnaires assessing erectile function, sexual desire, mood, energy, and emotional well-being. Participants serve as their own control, allowing for within-person comparisons of outcomes before and during the abstinence period.
Detailed Description
This single-arm, real-world observational study evaluates the association between pornography abstinence and changes in nocturnal penile tumescence, sexual function, and psychosocial outcomes in adult men.
During an initial baseline phase, participants continue their typical pornography use while collecting objective nocturnal erection data and completing baseline questionnaires. Participants then enter a 30-day abstinence period, during which they attempt to refrain from pornography use. Abstinence adherence is self-reported, with lapses logged as observational data rather than protocol violations.
Nocturnal penile tumescence is assessed nightly using the Adam Sensor, a non-invasive wearable device that measures changes in penile circumference during sleep. Additional outcomes are assessed using validated questionnaires administered at baseline and at weekly intervals. The study is exploratory and signal-detecting in nature and is not designed to establish causality.
Study Design
Study Type: Observational
Study Design
- Study Type
- Observational
- Observational Model
- Cohort
- Time Perspective
- Other
Eligibility Criteria
- Ages
- 18 Years to — (Adult, Older Adult)
- Sex
- Male
- Accepts Healthy Volunteers
- Yes
Inclusion Criteria
- •Adult males of legal age of consent
- •Willingness to attempt pornography abstinence
- •Ability to use a wearable device during sleep
- •Ability to complete electronic surveys
- •Willingness to purchase the study device
Exclusion Criteria
- •Have a history of significant sexual dysfunction requiring active medical treatment
- •Have current or uncontrolled mental health disorders
- •Have a history of addictive behaviors that may be exacerbated by abstinence
- •Are undergoing hormonal therapy or treatment affecting sexual function
- •Are experiencing unstable interpersonal or relationship stressors
- •Have significant concerns about privacy related to sexual health data
- •Have cultural or religious considerations that could cause distress