Is Not Masturbating Good For You?
Masturbation is a normal and healthy sexual activity enjoyed by millions of people worldwide. However, some myths and misconceptions still surround the topic. One common question is whether avoiding masturbation completely can somehow improve your health and wellbeing.
Here, we'll explore some of the proposed benefits of abstaining from masturbation, the potential downsides, and what the research says about how masturbation affects your physical, mental and sexual health.
Proposed Benefits of Not Masturbating
Some people actively avoid masturbating due to cultural or religious beliefs. Others hope to gain some benefits by taking a break from self-pleasure. Here are some of the proposed benefits of not masturbating:
- Increased testosterone levels
- Improved sperm quality
- More energy and vitality
- Improved focus and concentration
- Greater motivation and productivity
- Increased confidence and self-esteem
- Stronger willpower and self-control
- Deeper spiritual awareness
- Improved relations with the opposite sex
For some, abstaining from masturbation is seen as a challenge of self-discipline with personal growth or spiritual benefits. Others believe it will boost vitality, energy, concentration and confidence.
Downsides of Avoiding Masturbation
Avoiding masturbation completely may have some drawbacks as well:
- Increased stress and tension
- Higher risk of prostate cancer
- Decreased erectile function
- Missing out on pleasure and relaxation
- Feelings of shame or sexual repression
- Relationship issues due to sexual frustration
- Unrealistic and unhealthy attitudes about sex
Abstaining from masturbation for too long may lead to increased stress and tension, relationship conflicts and a negative attitude toward one's sexuality. It could also potentially increase the risk of prostate cancer later in life according to some studies.
What Does Science Say About Masturbation and Health?
Many myths and misconceptions surround masturbation, so what does scientific research actually reveal about its health impacts? Here's a look at what studies show:
Masturbation is Normal and Healthy
Masturbation is almost universal among both sexes and across all ages. Sex researchers describe it as a normal, healthy sexual behavior. There is no evidence it causes any harm when practiced in moderation.
No Link to Hair Loss or Blindness
There is no scientific basis for myths that masturbation causes hair loss or blindness. These seem to originate from scare tactics meant to frighten people away from self-pleasure.
No Impact on Testosterone
Research finds that masturbating does not change testosterone levels. A man's testosterone levels fluctuate regularly throughout the day and vary based on many lifestyle factors. Masturbation likely has minimal impact compared to these larger patterns.
Can Enhance Sexual Health
For both sexes, masturbation can improve sexual health. It helps people learn about their bodies and sexual responses. By increasing comfort with touch and promoting vaginal lubrication, female masturbation can improve sexual activity. For men, frequent masturbation may help to reduce risk of prostate cancer.
Temporarily Relieves Sexual Tension
Masturbation provides temporary relief from stress and sexual tension. However, its impact is fleeting. It does not completely eliminate sexual desire or frustration. Other solutions must be used alongside it to achieve greater self-control.
No Evidence That Abstinence Is Harmful
While masturbation is healthy, there is no evidence that abstaining from it is inherently harmful - as long as it does not stem from or lead to sexual repression. People who have moral or cultural reasons to avoid masturbation can safely do so.
Prostate Cancer Prevention
Frequent ejaculation throughout life, including through masturbation, may lower a man's risk of prostate cancer later on according to some studies. The reasons are still unclear but removing toxins and reducing inflammation may play a role.
Improves Sex Life When Combined With Healthy Attitude
For couples with a healthy attitude toward sex, mutual masturbation and incorporated masturbation can enrich intimacy and improve their sex life. But when combined with shame or unrealistic expectations, it can negatively impact relationships.
Takeaway on Masturbation and Health
Masturbation is a normal and healthy sexual behavior that has no harmful effects in moderation. While certain benefits have been proposed, these claims are largely unproven. Abstinence from masturbation can be safely practiced but is unlikely to provide significant benefits unless integrated with broader lifestyle changes and a healthy attitude toward sex.
Ultimately, the effects of avoiding masturbation depend on each individual's unique psychology and physiology - as well as the motivation and methods behind it. Masturbation should not be compulsively overindulged in or demonized. Finding a balanced approach to it is ideal for most people.
Tips For Finding a Healthy Balance With Masturbation
- Consider your motivations and attitude. If underlying shame or rigid views are driving avoidance of masturbation, examine and resolve these.
- Don't completely repress sexual desire. Find healthy outlets like exercise, socializing and intimacy with a partner.
- Be aware that abstinence alone will not solve larger problems of stress, confidence, self-control, etc. Make more comprehensive lifestyle changes.
- Focus on moderation rather than absolute abstinence which for many is unrealistic long-term.
- Pay attention to your energy, mood and health. Adjust your habits if you see benefits but don't hesitate to return to a moderate level of masturbation.
- Consider techniques like mindfulness and meditation to gain awareness and control of impulses and desires.
- If partnered, communicate openly to find mutual understanding. Masturbation need not negatively impact an intimate relationship when done with care.
Finding balance and moderation with masturbation enhances health without denying sexuality. With self-awareness, healthy attitudes and openness in relationships, masturbation can be an enjoyable part of life.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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