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Prone Masturbation

Dr. Felix Gussone

Reviewed by Felix Gussone, MD

Written by Daniel Yetman

Published 01/21/2025

Prone masturbation isn’t the most common choice for solo sex, but there’s no right or wrong way to masturbate. What feels best for you is all about personal preference.

This form of masturbation involves lying face-down on your stomach and grinding or humping a pillow or other object. While there’s nothing wrong with prone masturbating, aggressively grinding against some objects can increase your risk of penile injury.

Below, we dive into the basics of prone masturbation, potential side effects, and how to cope if your go-to masturbation method is impacting your sexual health.

Prone masturbation when you masturbate lying face down, usually by pressing your pelvis against a bed, pillow, or other object for stimulation. It’s sometimes called “face-down” masturbation.

Some men enjoy this position because it can feel similar to being intimate with a partner.

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Read up before getting down

Prone masturbation isn’t necessarily harmful, but it could lead to issues if it becomes a habit, as it could potentially damage the penis.

Unlike penetrative sex, where the penis enters a space designed to accommodate it, prone masturbation involves rubbing against a solid, often dry, surface, which can cause bending or trauma. The added pressure on the penis can increase the risk of tissue, nerve, or blood vessel damage — all of which are important for healthy sexual function.

The Research on Prone Masturbation

A 2023 Turkish study looked at a group of 448 men, averaging about 30 years old. Researchers found higher rates of erectile dysfunction (ED) in the men with unusual masturbation habits. Those with ED were 2.2 times more likely to engage in unusual masturbation habits including “rubbing in a prone position” or “penile pressure” while masturbating.

It’s important to note that this study doesn’t establish whether prone masturbation causes ED or vice versa. And it’s not clear which came first — the ED or prone masturbating.

Another study from 2021 performed by the same lead researchers looked at 1,819 men between the ages of 18 and 60. They discovered that masturbation habits like masturbating through clothes or in a prone position seemed to be linked to erectile dysfunction and traumatic masturbatory syndrome (TMS).

One big limitation of the study was the absence of a control group of healthy men, which means it’s hard to draw firm conclusions from the results.

TMS refers to a theory that excessive pressure and friction during masturbation can have physical and psychological effects, especially in a prone position.

TMS is controversial and not widely accepted in medical and sexology circles. It was first described in 1998, based on a few case studies, and tied certain masturbation techniques to:

  • Erectile dysfunction (ED)

  • Trouble reaching orgasm

  • Challenges with sexual pleasure

Masturbation myths are everywhere — like the idea that it’ll make you go blind, shrink your penis, or sprout hair on your palms.

None of these things are true. But masturbation is still a topic people feel shame and embarrassment over.

Because people often lie or withhold information in surveys, studying masturbation can be tricky.

Even so, a 2022 study conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic found that about 60% of men and 36.5% of women reported masturbating in the last month. FYI: These are likely underestimates since the responses were self-reported.

Other things about masturbation that aren’t true include:

  • Masturbation makes your penis curve. A curve in your penis can be a sign of Peyronie’s disease. But masturbation isn’t a cause for the condition.

  • Fertility problems. Masturbation doesn’t cause fertility problems. But you should avoid ejaculating 48h before donating sperm. It takes time for your body to replenish its sperm count after ejaculating.

  • Mental health conditions. Masturbation doesn’t cause mental health issues. However, excessive, inappropriate, or illegal masturbating can be a sign of a sex addiction.

  • Premature ejaculation: Masturbation may actually help with premature ejaculation. Practicing regularly can train the body to delay climax and improve control over when you orgasm.

Masturbation might stir up feelings of guilt or shame for some men, but it actually offers several sexual health benefits. Here’s are some of the pros of masturbating:

  • It allows you to explore your sexuality and pleasure.

  • It can support body positivity, self-esteem, and sexual development.

  • It can help with stress relief.

  • It can promote relaxation and sleep.

  • It can help boost your mood.

  • It releases sexual tension.

While masturbation appears to have little effect on testosterone levels in men overall, a small study from 2021 found that masturbation might temporarily increase free testosterone levels in young, healthy men. And there’s a link between low testosterone and sexual health problems. While interesting, more research is needed to back these findings.

Last but not least: Solo sex is the safest form of intimacy, with no risk of pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections.

Although masturbation can have benefits, masturbating too frequently or too aggressively can be problematic.

Prone masturbation can cause problems if your whole body weight is pressing on your penis while you do it, and you’re rubbing your penis against a hard, dry surface.

Here are some potential side effects of prone masturbation:

  • Delayed ejaculation. High friction and pressure can desensitize the penis, making it harder to ejaculate during sexual intercourse. Learn more about delayed ejaculation.

  • Erectile dysfunction. There seems to be a link between prone masturbation and erectile dysfunction. Learn more about erectile dysfunction.

  • Short-term side effects. You might develop a number of short-term side effects from aggressive or frequent masturbation such as:

    • Discomfort or soreness in your genital area

    • Skin irritation or chafing

    • Reduced sensitivity in your penis

    • Temporary difficulty achieving morning erections (AKA "morning wood")

  • Long-term side effects. Long-term side effects of aggressive masturbation can include:

    • Difficulty transitioning to normal masturbation or sexual intercourse

    • Psychological distress or reduced confidence in your sexual ability

ED Treatment

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Worried about sexual issues like premature ejaculation or erectile dysfunction? You’re not alone and help is available. A sex therapist or sexologist can guide you through underlying psychological causes, which are often treatable with therapy.

If you think an underlying medical condition might be a factor, it’s worth talking with a healthcare professional. Conditions affecting your blood vessels or nerves, like diabetes or heart disease, can play a role in erectile dysfunction.

Learn more about Hims medications for erectile dysfunction.

​​If prone masturbation is your thing and you don’t experience physical or psychological symptoms from it, you may not need to stop prone masturbation.

However, if you think prone masturbation is causing challenges in your sexual life or impacting your overall well-being, you may want to try the following:

1. Explore Different Masturbation Techniques

Switching to traditional methods, like using your hands, can help reset sensitivity and improve your sexual adaptability.

Adding a moisturizer or lubricant during masturbation can also reduce friction on your penis — and make things more comfortable.

2. Use Prone Masturbation Less Frequently

Gradually cutting back on prone masturbation may help your body and mind adjust to other forms of stimulation. It might also reduce symptoms like chafing.

3. Incorporate Sex Toys

Sex toys, like a fleshlight, that stimulate the sensations of penetrative sex can enhance your sexual pleasure and help you rely less on prone masturbation.

4. Try Some Lifestyle Tweaks

There is no specific lifestyle change to directly address prone masturbation issues. But the following simple lifestyle changes can support your overall wellness — and your sexual health, too.

  • Manage your stress levels by incorporating stress-relieving techniques into your daily routine

  • Eat a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients for sexual wellness

  • Limit your intake of ultra-processed foods

  • Focus on getting plenty of high-quality sleep

Certain supplements may help improve your sexual health, especially if you’re low on essential nutrients.

A 2020 review suggests a potential link between vitamin D deficiency and ED, but more research is needed.

Generally, it’s a good idea to be cautious when considering supplements that claim to treat ED and improve sexual performance. Unlike prescription medications, they aren't regulated by the FDA, and there's little oversight, making the supplement market unpredictable.

The following are some frequently asked questions people have about prone masturbation and masturbation in general.

Is Prone Masturbation Bad?

Prone masturbation is not inherently harmful, but aggressive masturbation in general can lead to negative effects like skin irritation, desensitization, difficulty enjoying penetrative sex, and in rare cases, even injury.

Can Prone Masturbation Cause Delayed Ejaculation?

Pressure and friction that comes with frequent prone masturbation can theoretically desensitize the penis, causing some men to develop problems ejaculating during normal sexual intercourse (delayed ejaculation).

Does Masturbation Affect Sexual Health?

Masturbation can be a healthy part of your sex life. Relying too much on certain methods, like prone masturbation, can negatively impact your sexual function and well-being.

Some research links frequent masturbation with relationship dissatisfaction, but it’s unclear if masturbation causes the issue or is a response to relationship struggles.

Does Masturbation Affect Your Penis Size?

No. Masturbation won’t shrink your penis. Your penis size is all about genetics. Masturbation has no effect on penis size.

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There’s nothing wrong with you if you enjoy masturbating face-down. But excessive friction and aggressive movements can potentially lead to sexual health issues.

Let’s recap:

  • Prone masturbation is perfectly normal. Some men prefer to masturbate this way, and that’s okay.

  • Too much friction can cause side effects. Aggressive rubbing against a dry surface can lead to skin problems, and in rare cases even penile injury or desensitization.

  • Face-down masturbating might also be linked with ED. Research suggests a connection between this form of masturbation and sexual health issues like ED.

Want to foster a healthy sex life? You can probably stick to your go-to masturbation method. But consider mixing things up and trying new techniques. And if you’re worried about your masturbation habits, consider talking about them with a healthcare professional.

Looking for help with a sexual health concern like ED or premature ejaculation? We’ve got you covered. Take our short quiz to get started.

11 Sources

  1. Bogacki-Ryhchlik W, et al. (2024). Neurophysiology of male sexual arousal—Behavioral perspective. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/behavioral-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnbeh.2023.1330460/full
  2. Can U, et al. (2023). Traumatic masturbation and erectile dysfunction: A matched case–control study. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/iju.15279
  3. Crafa A, et al. (2020). Is there an association between vitamin D deficiency and erectile dysfunction? A systematic review and meta-analysis. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7284343/
  4. Herbenick D, et al. (2022). Masturbation prevalence, frequency, reasons, and associations with partnered sex in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic: Findings from a U.S. Nationally Representative Survey. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9794105/
  5. Isenmann E, et al. (2021). Hormonal response after masturbation in young healthy men – A randomized controlled cross-over pilot study. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8697462/
  6. Kafkasli A, et al. (2021). Traumatic masturbation syndrome may be an important cause of erectile dysfunction in pre-mature ejaculation patients. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/and.14168
  7. MA GC, et al. (2019). Regular penis-root masturbation, a novel behavioral therapy in the treatment of primary premature ejaculation. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6859670/
  8. Nguyen V, et al. (2023). Male delayed orgasm and anorgasmia: A practical guide for sexual medicine providers. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41443-023-00692-7
  9. Perry, S. L. (2020). Is the Link Between Pornography Use and Relational Happiness Really More About Masturbation? Results From Two National Surveys. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00224499.2018.1556772
  10. Sank LI, et al. (2020). Traumatic masturbatory syndrome: A proposed treatment protocol. https://www.jscimedcentral.com/jounal-article-info/JSM-Sexual-Medicine/Traumatic-Masturbatory-Syndrome:--A-Proposed-Treatment-Protocol-3257
  11. Sokol, P. et al (2021). The Effect of Ejaculatory Abstinence Interval on Sperm Parameters and Clinical Outcome of ART. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8347289/
Editorial Standards

Hims & Hers has strict sourcing guidelines to ensure our content is accurate and current. We rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We strive to use primary sources and refrain from using tertiary references. See a mistake? Let us know at [email protected]!

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment. Learn more about our editorial standards here.

Felix Gussone, MD

Dr. Felix Gussone is a medical content specialist and Medical Advisor at Hims & Hers. Prior to joining Hims & Hers, Felix worked in digital health at Ro, focusing on patient education.

Raised in Germany, Dr. Gussone earned his M.D. from Ludwig-Maximilians-University before transitioning into health journalism and medical education content. He currently leads the medical information content team at an American biotech company.

Throughout his career, Dr. Gussone has used his medical expertise to drive the development of evidence-based health content and patient education materials. He has over 10 years of experience covering a wide range of topics, including health news, diet and weight loss, mental health, and sexual health, for prominent television programs and online publications.

Dr. Gussone has contributed to leading television programs such as CNN’s Anderson Cooper 360, NBC TODAY, and NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt, where he produced and wrote a wide range of health and wellness stories for television and digital outlets that engaged and informed diverse audiences across the United States and abroad. In addition to his work in cable and network health reporting, Felix served as Senior Health Editor at Elemental, Medium’s health and wellness publication, where he led editorial content development focused on science and personal well-being.

Dr. Gussone lives in Cambridge, Massachusetts and Brooklyn, and enjoys perfume making, scuba diving, roller blading, and traveling. You can find Dr. Gussone on LinkedIn for more information.

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