A trend is spreading across social media, encouraging men to masturbate in a niche way. But health experts are warning it could cause serious problems.
Known as e-stim (short for electrostimulation), or electrosex, the trend reportedly involves applying mild electrical currents directly to the genitals for pleasure. And it’s causing concern among some health experts.
Sexologist Becky Crepsley-Fox explained to Metro that “electric play” has been around for a long time. A standard setup typically includes a shaft ring connected to a stimulator that allows the user to control the intensity.
“There are also adhesive pads to attach to your testicles, or insertable toys for both anal and vaginal use,” she says.
Crepsley-Fox continues: “For people with penises, increased engorgement can create a sensation of greater firmness.
“The testicles are particularly responsive – the skin is thin, nerve endings are densely packed, and many people find even low-level current there produces an intense sensation.”
What is e-stim?
According to Metro, one Reddit community dedicated to e-stim has grown to more than 16,000 members, with new users joining daily to share tips and recommendations. But Crepsley-Fox says it could come with some genuine dangers.
“Placing pads too high on the body can cause cardiac disruption,” she warns.
Therefore, anyone with a heart condition, epilepsy, or a pacemaker should stay away from it completely. According to UNILAD, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Heart Association (AHA) recommend keeping at least a 6-inch distance between your device and electronics, while also avoiding high-voltage equipment.
“Only ever use purpose-built sex-tech devices”
It also comes with other risks, including muscle spasms, nerve damage, and electrical burns. Some people online have also reportedly described genital numbness lasting up to 24 hours.
For others, “regular” masturbation is no longer as satisfying after getting into e-stim. This can happen because the body adapts to whatever stimulation method it is consistently exposed to. However, it’s worth noting that sensation typically returns to normal if the activity is paused for a period of time.
If you’re still curious, Crepsley-Fox’s guidance is clear: “Always start with your chosen device on the lowest setting and increase gradually, and only ever use purpose-built sex-tech devices – never improvised or DIY equipment,” she says to Metro.
“Check your device before use and never use it near water, as well as keeping pads strictly below the waist and away from the heart.”
She also recommends trying it with a partner the first time, just in case.
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