Today, we like to think of ourselves as more enlightened than ever. We see ourselves as being open and frank about everything from nutrition to sexual satisfaction. But human sexuality is, in fact, still the focus of much misunderstanding as these five enduring myths prove.

Performance Problems Only Happen to Old Men

Premature ejaculation is the single most common sexual performance problem today. Several studies have found that more than 90% of men report dealing with the condition at one point or another. Many experts, however, believe that number to be closer to 100% but that it remains under-reported.

Premature Ejaculation is a Sign of Serious Medical Conditions

This myth has endured so much since it does contain a grain of truth. Any sexual performance problem could potentially be a sign of a bigger problem. Typically this has to do with cardiovascular health or overall fitness as sexuality is directly tied to both of these heath issues. However, there are dozens of potential triggers for early ejaculation and so there is no reason to automatically assume there’s a major underlying health problem. Men who are dealing with any type of performance issue should, of course, consult their doctor or other healthcare professional with their concerns, but there is no reason to jump to the conclusion that your health is at risk after a sporadic episode of premature ejaculation, impotence or any other performance problem.

Early Ejaculation is a Disease

A disease is defined as “a disorder of structure or function in a human … that produces specific signs or symptoms or that affects a specific location and is not simply a direct result of physical injury.” At first glance, you may think that premature ejaculation fits this definition but, in fact, it is referred to as a condition and not a disease. The reason for this is that premature ejaculation is usually the direct result of something else, whether it’s stress, anxiety, poor diet or any other reason.

Premature Ejaculation Means You Orgasm Before Sex

Again, this is another myth that has been passed down through the generations because it contains a kernel of truth. For some men, early ejaculation does in fact mean they orgasm before they begin having sex. But that isn’t the only way this condition presents. Some men are able to have penetrative sex for a minute or even two. Today, doctors define the condition as when a man climaxes in less than 1 or 2 minutes or simply before he would like to.

Masturbation Can Cause Premature Ejaculation (and Impotence).

This particular myth is perhaps the most damaging. The idea that masturbation causes early ejaculation, impotence and other sexual performance problems is simply wrong. In fact, masturbation is used by a number of doctors and therapists to help treat a variety of performance problems, including orgasming too quickly and problems with achieving or maintaining an erection. While this form of therapy isn’t used in every case, the fact is that masturbation does not cause any sort of sexual problem unless the person uses it in place of sexual activity with their partner. This latter condition has more to do with emotional issues regarding connecting with someone as opposed to any physical impact of masturbation. In fact, masturbation helps to lower blood pressure, relives stress and can help prevent prostate cancer.

Myths and misconceptions about human sexuality have been around since the dawn of recorded history. While many of these myths wither away and are forgotten, some remain more tenacious and continue to be spread even today. Taking the time to combat these half-truths and outright lies one by one is the first step in taking control of your sexual health and overall happiness. A well informed man is a man ready to take control of his sexual performance and satisfaction.