Pornography Abstinence and Nocturnal Erections in Adult Men

Efforia, Inc

Status

Enrolling

Conditions

Erection; Incomplete

Treatments

Behavioral: Pornography Abstinence

Study type

Observational

Funder types

Industry

Identifiers

NCT07618104

38321

Details and patient eligibility

About

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.

Full 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: Single-arm, within-participant comparison

Time Perspective: Prospective

Masking: None (Open Label)

Primary Purpose: Health outcomes assessment / signal detection

Additional information can be found at the study recruitment landing page here: https://app.efforia.com/30-day-tv-abstinence-challenge/

Enrollment

100 estimated patients

Sex

Male

Ages

18+ years old

Volunteers

Accepts Healthy Volunteers

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