2024-11-05 17:34:00
And one more challenge. There was already Dry January, which consists of not drinking alcohol during the month of January, after generally drunken parties. The veganuary, which invites you, also in January, to put your meat consumption on hold. Or Movember, men’s health awareness month, which invites gentlemen to grow a mustache during the month of November. But November also includes the “#Nonutnovember challenge”, or NNN, always aimed at men, invited here to belt up. “No nut”, which in English slang means “not to ejaculate”.
Thus, for thirty days, participants in this challenge undertake to have no form of sexual activity: no intercourse, no masturbation or viewing porn. For what purposes? And for what benefits, or what deleterious effects?
Take Back Control
Born on social networks around 2010, the NNN has a growing community every year. It was also promoted by the influencer Tibo InShape, during the 2023 edition.
By clicking on “I accept”, you accept the deposit of cookies by external services and will thus have access to the content of our partners.
More information on the Cookie management policy page
I accept
But the NNN is considered by certain followers who define themselves as “alpha males” as a performance, a means of regaining control over one’s sexuality, and is promoted by masculinist and far-right movements. For some participants, this challenge is practiced as a home sexual detox to free themselves from sexual addiction. So, by committing to total sexual abstinence, without any sexual activity for a full month, would NNN be a way to fight against sexual addictions, including that to porn? “For some participants, this challenge may feel like a break that feels good, but for people who have a sexual addiction, absolute abstinence is total heresy! It is a behavioral addiction, where sex is ultimately the product and the drug, explains Professor Laurent Karila, addict psychiatrist at Paul-Brousse hospital in Villejuif, author of Doctor: Addict or not? (ed. Harper Collins) and the Addiktion podcast, the latest episode of which is dedicated to sexual addiction. The risk, for those who are not medically monitored, is to plunge again again”
On the other hand, “we rather recommend moving towards sexual sobriety: we will tell patients to regulate their excessive sexual behavior, to relearn how to find pleasure,” recommends the addiction psychiatrist. For example, in classic clinical forms, sex-addict patients will practice masturbation, watch porn and/or have sex compulsively. With therapy techniques, we will teach them to control their impulses, to manage their irresistible urges to consume, and to regulate their consumption time. That is to say, they will be able to continue masturbating, but for very controlled periods of time, with and without porn films.”
And for health?
And for health, does NNN have any benefits? Some followers put forward the idea that this month of abstinence would increase their testosterone levels and improve their concentration. What does science say about it? Well not necessarily. Of course, if someone chooses to adhere to it and experiences well-being, let them enjoy abstinence. However, on a moral level, positive sexuality is a source of fulfillment and well-being, as the World Health Organization (WHO) points out: “Sexual health is fundamental to general health and well-being individuals, couples and families, as well as for the social and economic development of communities and countries. Sexual health, when considered positively, is understood as a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasant and safe sexual experiences, free from coercion, discrimination and violence.”
But that’s not all: according to an Australian study published in 2019, the practice of sex, during intercourse with a partner or during a solo masturbation session would have many other virtues: it would promote falling asleep and the quality of sleep, thanks to the release of endorphins
And on a physical level, if no one will die from taking a vow of abstinence for thirty days, having absolutely no sexuality is not necessarily the best for men’s health in general, and for general health. of the prostate in particular. “Ejaculating often, at least twenty times a month, contributes to good prostate health, this has been proven by many studies,” Professor François Desgrandchamps, head of the urology department at the hospital, reminded 20 Minutes. Saint-Louis in Paris and author The prostate, are we talking about it? (ed. Hachette). This is probably a biological mechanism: in semen, there are substances called putrescines, which are carcinogenic. Ejaculating often helps eliminate toxins. A fulfilling sex life is therefore partly the key to a healthy prostate. And this is not negligible: it halves the risk of developing prostate cancer.”
1730889933
#month #sexual #abstinence #men #health
**Interviewer:** Good evening! Today, we’re discussing an intriguing phenomenon that happens every November known as No Nut November, or NNN. With us is renowned addiction psychiatrist, Professor Laurent Karila, who has some profound insights on the impacts of this challenge on sexual health. Welcome, Professor Karila!
**Professor Karila:** Thank you for having me!
**Interviewer:** So, No Nut November asks participants to abstain from all sexual activities for 30 days. What are your thoughts on this challenge, particularly regarding its effects on individuals who may struggle with sexual addiction?
**Professor Karila:** It’s essential to recognize that for some, this challenge can feel empowering. However, for those with sexual addictions, complete abstinence can be counterproductive. It might lead some to feel deprived, which could exacerbate their compulsive behaviors once the month concludes. In cases of behavioral addiction, we often find that the elements of moderation and control are far more effective than total abstinence.
**Interviewer:** That’s an interesting point. You mentioned that moderation is key. How do you suggest individuals approach their sexual behaviors in a healthier way?
**Professor Karila:** Instead of rigid abstinence, we advocate for what we call ‘sexual sobriety.’ This involves learning to manage and regulate sexual impulses, finding pleasure in healthier ways. Patients often engage in practices that allow them to enjoy sex or masturbation under controlled conditions. It’s about discovering balance and enhancing one’s relationship with their sexuality.
**Interviewer:** Some participants claim that abstaining for a month can lead to increased testosterone levels and improved focus. Is there any scientific basis for these claims?
**Professor Karila:** Research on that is somewhat limited. While occasional abstinence may have some physiological effects, it doesn’t always translate into long-lasting benefits. The key takeaway is that sexual health is crucial to overall well-being, as recognized by the WHO. Positive sexual experiences contribute significantly to mental and emotional health.
**Interviewer:** In your expert opinion, what should people take away from participating in challenges like NNN?
**Professor Karila:** It’s important to approach these challenges with a balanced mindset. If participants find emotional or physical benefits during this month, that’s great! However, one must also remember that a healthy relationship with one’s sexuality should be encouraged. Sex is a normal part of human life, and understanding how to enjoy it safely and responsibly is what contributes to genuine health and well-being.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Professor Karila, for shedding light on this complex topic. It’s clear that moderation and understanding our bodies are crucial to our sexual health.
**Professor Karila:** Thank you for having me! It’s important to continue these conversations for the well-being of individuals and society at large.
