Porn—it’s like that wild friend you love hanging out with but sometimes regret inviting over. For most people, online porn is just harmless fun, even a tool for exploring desires or spicing things up (thanks, feminist porn!). But for others, it can turn into a cycle of frustration, leaving them stuck in the “why am I still watching this?” spiral. Research during the COVID-19 lockdowns showed global porn consumption shot up by 4% to 24% (Vieira & Griffiths, 2024), with many using it as a stand-in for other distractions like social outings, hookups, or, dare we say it, actual human connection.
Here’s the rub: the impact of porn isn’t one-size-fits-all. Porn can mean pleasure, but science says if there's problematic use, then you're part of a statistic. Problematic Pornography Use (PPU)—basically when porn goes from being a casual fling to a clingy lover that demands more attention and time—then you're likely to experience anxiety, depression, and loneliness (Vieira & Griffiths, 2024). Women in particular report greater psychological distress tied to PPU (Tan et al., 2022), possibly because mainstream porn doesn’t always feel like it’s for them. But not all studies paint a bleak picture. Some research shows women exposed to porn designed for a female audience reported fewer body image issues compared to those consuming generic content (Borgogna et al., 2022). That’s the thing about porn—it’s not the villain. It’s how you use it, and whether you’re doing so to explore fantasies or just escape boredom and rejection.
For some, porn becomes the ultimate frenemy, giving instant gratification while also perpetuating feelings of shame or isolation. And let’s not forget the folks who grew up with a side of religious guilt—studies show that high religiosity can lead to self-perceived “addiction,” even if usage is moderate (Camilleri et al., 2020). At its best, porn can be a playful addition to your intimate repertoire, sparking conversations or inspiring experimentation. But when it becomes a crutch for avoiding life’s discomforts or rejections, it’s time to rethink the relationship. Porn isn’t inherently good or bad—it’s a tool, just like the bedside lube. Use it with curiosity and boundaries, and you’re in the clear. Because as fun as the dopamine rush might be, nothing beats the real deal: connection, intimacy, and maybe a bit of cheeky exploration with some pure coconut lube like LUBECOCO.
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