42 Day
Porn Abstinence Impact Challenge: Nighttime Wood Test
| STUDY TITLE | Porn Abstinence Impact Challenge: Nighttime Wood Test |
|---|---|
| Submitted under umbrella | |
| Date submitted |
- |
| End date |
There is no pre-specified end date and sub-studies remain open long-term. |
| Language |
English |
| Efforia AI IRB approval recommendation | |
| Recruitment page preview | |
| Author edit | |
| Informed consent | |
| Study author |
Christos Konstantinidis, Jordan Tsanev, Matthew Amsden |
| Principal investigator |
Matthew Amsden |
| Sub-Investigator for Adverse Events |
Dr. Viral Patel |
| Description |
We know almost everyone uses porn, but we don't really know how (or if) it affects us. This porn abstinence challenge looks at the impact of a 30 days of porn abstinence - specifically on your nighttime erections using the Adam Sensor, a connect health device to measure your penile tumescence (erections while you sleep) - an incredibly important measure for hormonal and sexual health in men. |
| Participant engagement length |
42 Days |
| Sponsor |
This study is made possible by your payment to cover all supplies and expenses required to participate. |
| Cost to participant |
$149 |
| Included products & services |
Adam Sensor – Nocturnal Erection Tracker: $149
|
| Outcome measures |
Weekly Porn Consumption Survey Sexual Desire Inventory-2 (SDI-2) Survey for Men & Women International Index of Erectile Function Survey Adam Sensor: Nocturnal Penile Tumescence |
| Methodology |
Single Arm longitudinal where participants act as their own control |
| Basic or advanced dissemination plan |
Basic |
| Deviation from recruitment approach |
No |
| Deviation from statistical approach |
No |
| Will study include “more about you questions” |
No |
| Clinicaltrials.Gov |
Yes |
| Committment to list findings on clinicaltrials.Gov |
Yes |
Preview This document is prepared with the assistance of AI, but is reviewed by a human.
Rational & Study Design
Let’s get something straight:
no one really knows how good or bad porn is for us—especially not for you, personally. The science is still unfolding, and the internet is flooded with opinions, muddled with moral judgment, dressed up as facts. Some academic studies suggest links between excessive porn use and decreased sexual satisfaction or performance. Others argue that porn, when used responsibly, can be part of healthy sexuality. So let’s find out.
This is the first in a series of studies looking at the impact of porn use on various aspects of men’s mental and sexual health. Each study is a little different, but they all have one thing in common: no judgment, no shame, just self-experimentation. You are the subject. Your life is the lab.
My objective for you is simple:
to give you insights—not dogma. By observing your current patterns and then stepping away from porn for 30 days, you’ll get access to something rare: real, personal data about how your body responds. Especially one crucial signal that’s often overlooked—nocturnal erections, or nocturnal tumescence.
These nighttime erections aren’t just a random side effect of being male. They’re not trivial. They’re not a gimmick. They are one of the clearest reflections of male hormonal, cardiovascular, and sexual health. If they’re happening regularly and strongly, it’s usually a sign that your system is working well. If they’re not, it could be a red flag worth noticing. By tracking them, you’re not just learning about arousal—you’re learning about circulation, testosterone, nervous system balance, and overall function.
This study aims to evaluate the effects of 30 days of pornography abstinence on men’s sexual health and well-being, with a specific focus on nocturnal tumescence as a biomarker. We’ll also assess changes in sexual desire, erectile function, and overall mental and emotional health. Validated surveys will guide the process—and your body will tell the rest.
In a world full of hot takes and half-truths, this is about generating real insight—for you and for the broader conversation around porn, performance, and male health. The goal? A stronger foundation for smarter choices, better awareness, and a more dialed-in version of you.
This isn’t about quitting. This is about knowing.
The Intervention
Included Products & Services
Product Name: Adam Sensor – Nocturnal Erection Tracker
Quantity included: 1
Price: $149.00
Product Description: You monitor your steps, calories, and even your credit score. Now, it's time to keep an eye on something crucial for many—your manhood's health. The Adam Sensor offers advanced technology to track erection health and gives you a chance to join leading studies in male wellness, uncovering new insights.
Product Image:
Ingredients:
Product Safety:
Study Design & Methodology
Inappropriate Participants & Inclusion/Exclusion
Under the Efforia minimal risk protocol, within which this study is reviewed for safety and human subjects ethics, all individuals over the age of consent are eligible, however, it is the responsibility of participants to determine if their unique circumstances make participation inappropriate.
Based on the intervention and outcome measures, here is a table identifying the kinds of people who should avoid being part of this trial:
| Category of Individual | Contraindications | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Individuals with Sexual Dysfunction History | Existing sexual dysfunction conditions | Participation may exacerbate symptoms or interfere with ongoing treatments. |
| Individuals with Mental Health Disorders | Current or history of mental health issues | The intervention might impact mental health stability, especially for those with anxiety or depression. |
| Individuals with Addictive Behaviors | History of pornography addiction or other addictions | Abstinence could trigger withdrawal symptoms or lead to psychological distress. |
| Individuals on Hormonal Therapy | Ongoing hormonal treatments or conditions affecting hormones | The intervention may interfere with or skew the results due to hormonal imbalances. |
| Individuals in Unstable Relationships | Experiencing relationship issues or conflicts | The intervention could strain relationships or exacerbate personal conflicts. |
| Individuals with Privacy Concerns | High concern for privacy regarding sexual health | The study involves sensitive topics that might cause discomfort or privacy issues. |
| Individuals with Cultural or Religious Considerations | Cultural or religious beliefs opposing the study's nature | Participation may conflict with personal beliefs or social norms, causing distress. |
Participants should carefully consider their personal health, mental well-being, and social circumstances before deciding to join the study.
Study Design & Experience
Week 1: Baseline Observation (Days 1–7) - Continue normal porn usage to establish a baseline. Days 8–38: Abstinence Period - Attempt to abstain from pornography for 30 days, logging any slips as data.
Assesments and frequency:- Baseline and Weekly: Use the Adam Nocturnal Erection Tracker to monitor nighttime erections. Complete baseline surveys (e.g., International Index of Erectile Function, Sexual Desire Inventory) and weekly porn consumption surveys. - Every 7 days: Check in to track nighttime erections, mental clarity, libido, mood, energy, and emotional resilience.
The "Porn Abstinence Impact Challenge: Nighttime Wood Test" is an observational trial designed to investigate the potential effects of a 30-day period of pornography abstinence on nocturnal erections. Utilizing the Adam Sensor, a connected health device, the study measures penile tumescence during sleep—a critical marker of hormonal and sexual health in men. This study, conducted under the "Minimal Risk Umbrella protocol," serves as a "Signal Phase" trial at Efforia, where participants act as their own controls. By comparing baseline data with post-abstinence outcomes, the study aims to provide initial insights into the physiological impacts of pornography abstinence, thus offering a directional indication of potential positive results and contributing to the limited existing safety data.
The study experience is structured into a 40-day period where participants first establish a baseline during the initial week by maintaining their usual pornography consumption habits. This baseline period is crucial for capturing a snapshot of each participant's current physiological state, including the frequency and quality of nocturnal erections. Following this, participants enter a 30-day abstinence phase, during which they attempt to refrain from any form of pornography, with an emphasis on intention over perfection. Throughout this period, key variables such as nighttime erections, mental clarity, libido, mood, and energy levels are meticulously tracked. Efforia provides guidance via digital tools to ensure consistency and privacy in data collection, encouraging participants to reflect and report without judgment.
Should the trial indicate a positive signal, meaning the intervention (pornography abstinence) appears effective, more comprehensive study designs may be pursued to further validate these findings. The Adam Sensor, central to this study, offers a comfortable and discreet means of tracking nocturnal erections by measuring changes in penile circumference, transmitting data to the AdamHealth app for detailed analysis. Participants are encouraged to engage with their data insights over time, facilitating a deeper understanding of their individual responses to the intervention. This initial phase not only serves to explore the potential health benefits of pornography abstinence but also lays the groundwork for future research directions that could refine our understanding of its impact on male sexual health. For more detailed information, refer to the "Minimal Risk Umbrella protocol."
Statistical Analysis Plan
Limitations & Justification
This single-arm observational study, conducted under the Minimal Risk Citizen Science Umbrella Protocol, explores the impact of 30 days of pornography abstinence on men's sexual health, particularly focusing on nocturnal erections as a biomarker. While the absence of a control group inherently limits the ability to draw causal inferences, the study design incorporates an expectations questionnaire to quantify potential biases related to participant preconceptions. By having participants act as their own controls and using validated tools like the Adam Sensor, we aim to mitigate some of the bias inherent to single-arm trials. This ensures that any changes observed in nocturnal penile tumescence, sexual desire, and mental health are carefully contextualized, providing a more robust understanding of the effects of porn abstinence.
The study's reliance on self-reported data and the use of a commercial device like the Adam Sensor represent additional limitations. Self-reported data can be subjective and prone to bias, while the Adam Sensor, although non-invasive and valuable for personal health monitoring, may not capture the full complexity of physiological changes. To address these limitations, the study employs validated surveys alongside the sensor, allowing for a triangulated approach to data collection. Additionally, stratifying the data by demographic variables will permit a nuanced analysis that may highlight patterns otherwise obscured by aggregate data. These methodological considerations are designed to enhance the study's validity and reliability, despite the inherent constraints of the single-arm design.
Efforia's Minimal Risk Umbrella Protocol is driven by a mission to democratize clinical research, supporting inquiries that might otherwise be overlooked. By focusing on personal insights and broader implications, this study aligns with Efforia's goals, providing valuable data that can inform future, more rigorous investigations if promising signals are detected. Participants gain access to personal insights about their health, while the broader research community benefits from a study that contributes to the ongoing conversation about the impact of pornography on male health. For more information on the protocol and its objectives, individuals are encouraged to refer to the Minimal Risk Umbrella Protocol.
Human Subjects Ethics
Suitability Under Minimal Risk Umbrella Protocol
Yes, this study might appear unsuitable for the inclusion under the minimal risk umbrella protocol. While the title suggests a focus on sexual content, it is specifically to avoid this content. It is exactly the opposite of titillation. The study is designed for a broad audience. And given the current cultural conversation around the overuse of porn among all individuals (specifically men), and the increased focus in general men’s sexual health this is not specifically targeting those with any specific vulnerabilities.
Yes, the study collects some sensitive information. It does involve sensitive personal data. But no more or no less than some other minimal risk study protocols on the platform. The study specifically asks individuals to avoid sexual content (and it does not depict violence). And therefore actually meets the criteria for minimal risk.
Suitability for Pay to Participate Model
The "Porn Abstinence Impact Challenge: Nighttime Wood Test" study proposes to charge participants $149 for the Adam Sensor, a nocturnal erection tracker. This device is legally available on the open market in the United States, where similar health monitoring devices are often sold to consumers interested in tracking various aspects of their health. The Adam Sensor provides a unique value proposition by offering specific insights into nocturnal erections, which are critical measures of hormonal and sexual health in men. Participants in this study are likely to be individuals who are already interested in personal health monitoring and sexual health, and therefore, may be generally willing to pay for such a specialized product. Furthermore, health and wellness devices with similar functions or benefits are often available at comparable or higher price points, suggesting that the Adam Sensor is reasonably priced within this market.
Additionally, the study offers more than just the convenience of purchasing the device. Participants gain access to a structured research environment that provides additional context and interpretation of the data collected by the Adam Sensor. This added value supports informed decision-making regarding their health, beyond what might be available through simple retail purchase. The typical consumer targeted by this study, likely interested in sexual health and wellness, is expected to afford the $149 cost without experiencing severe financial hardship. The study also carefully considers participant vulnerabilities by ensuring transparency and informed consent, minimizing the risk of buyer’s remorse. Overall, the opportunity to contribute to scientific understanding while receiving valuable personal health insights justifies the participant cost in this study.
Human Subjects Protection Questionnaire
Beneficence
Is there a description, unambiguous research question, and purpose? Yes, the study clearly outlines its research question and purpose, focusing on evaluating the effectiveness of a specific product or service offered by Efforia. This clarity ensures the study's objectives are well-defined and easily understood by participants and researchers alike.
Is the study built on what is known already? Yes, the study builds on existing knowledge by utilizing the Efforia platform, which leverages previous research and real-life experiences of participants to inform its design. This ensures that the study is grounded in a solid foundation of prior findings and insights.
Will the study provide meaningful answers to the research question? Yes, the study is designed to produce generalizable results that are relevant to both the broader research community and the specific participants involved. This dual focus ensures that the study's findings will be significant and applicable.
Will the study provide valid answers to the research question? Yes, the study employs robust methodologies and leverages the extensive infrastructure of the Efforia platform to ensure the validity of its findings. The study's design is carefully crafted to yield accurate and reliable results.
Non-maleficence
Are participants recruited with justifiable inclusion and exclusion criteria? Yes, any individual who has already purchased the product is eligible to participate. Efforia emphasizes participant responsibility by providing clear risks and considerations in the informed consent, ensuring minimal risk protocols are appropriate for each participant.
Does the research team have the experience, skills, facilities, and time to complete the study? Yes, the research team is well-equipped with the necessary experience, skills, and infrastructure from the Efforia platform to conduct decentralized minimal risk studies. The team is led by Matthew Amsden, an expert in decentralized trial management, and supported by Dr. Viral Patel for any adverse events, ensuring comprehensive oversight.
Is there a fair balance of benefits and harms (risks) for all with an interest in the study? Yes, the study's unique approach, as outlined in the minimal risk protocol, offers added value to participants who have purchased the product at no extra cost. This balance ensures that participants benefit from the study while minimizing potential risks.
Will participants receive appropriate care both during and after the study? Yes, participants are advised to seek their own medical care in case of adverse events, as per the informed consent. However, the minimal risk nature of the interventions and the study's monitoring provide more care than participants would receive outside the research context.
Is personal data handled appropriately (confidentiality)? Yes, personal data is managed with confidentiality, as detailed in the Minimal Risk Umbrella protocol, ensuring participant privacy and data protection.
Autonomy
Have participants been offered a fair choice through the information they are given (presented in plain English) and consent process? Yes, the informed consent document is written in plain English and provides comprehensive information about the study, its risks, benefits, and the voluntary nature of participation, allowing participants to make informed decisions.
Has the research incorporated patient and participant views? Yes, the study is designed to incorporate participant feedback, as Efforia is a participant-driven platform. The consent document encourages participants to provide input throughout the study, ensuring their views are considered.
Justice
Are there fair payments for participation and financial recompense in case of harm? Yes, while participants pay to participate, the study offers valuable product tracking and health outcome monitoring, providing intrinsic value. Participants understand that medical care is their financial responsibility in case of adverse events, and they are instructed to report incidents to Efforia.
Do participants have access to an independent complaints procedure (or advocate)? Yes, participants can contact Efforia's support for concerns or complaints and have access to independent ethics review board contacts included in the informed consent, providing multiple avenues for addressing issues.
Will the project be registered and results reported in the public domain? Yes, Efforia is committed to transparency, making personal results immediately available to participants and ensuring that generalizable results contribute to the public domain, enhancing the credibility of the authors and the study.