Over centuries, men have pursued diverse methods to elevate their well-being. Among these ancient practices is semen retention, a technique rooted in deliberately abstaining from ejaculation.
This age-old tradition, with its rich history, offers a myriad of physical and mental benefits. Notably, tantric sex exemplifies how semen retention intertwines with intimacy, fostering a deeper connection with one’s partner and amplifying pleasure.
Join us as we explore the fascinating world of semen retention, shedding light into its historical significance and its modern-day relevance in the pursuit of holistic health and fulfillment.
Does Semen Retention Increase Testosterone?
In 2002, a fascinating study revealed that men who refrained from masturbating for seven days experienced an astonishing 145 percent surge in testosterone levels compared to their baseline.
However, Dr. Joshua Calvert, a urologist, has cautioned that there’s no solid evidence supporting the idea that semen retention enhances testosterone. Intriguingly, by day eight of the study, despite the initial testosterone boost, no sustained increase was detected.
On the other hand, a more recent study suggests that masturbating might actually raise testosterone levels. But, as always, further research is needed to fully understand this complex relationship.
Harmful Effects When You Retain Sperm
While retaining sperm is generally considered safe, there are a few potential drawbacks to be aware of. Not everyone will have a positive experience, as failure to ejaculate can lead to discomfort or epididymal hypertension.
Epididymal hypertension, commonly known as “blue balls,” is a possible consequence of not ejaculating for an extended period. This condition can cause significant discomfort in the testicles due to the absence of orgasm.
Additionally, holding onto sexual energy may affect mood, potentially leading to anxiety or mood swings.
While sperm retention can offer benefits, it’s essential to be mindful of these potential risks and listen to your body’s cues. If you experience discomfort or mood changes, it may be necessary to reconsider your approach to semen retention and seek guidance from a healthcare professional if needed.
Reasonable Frequency of Ejaculation
The recommended frequency of ejaculation for most individuals is approximately twice a week, which is considered typical and healthy. However, it’s important to note that this figure can vary from person to person.
If you find it challenging to maintain this frequency or experience a significant decline in desire or performance, it’s essential to reevaluate your ejaculation habits.
Pay attention to your body’s signals and adjust your habits accordingly to ensure your overall well-being and sexual health.
5 Positive Effects of Frequent Ejaculation
In this section, we will examine the potential benefits of frequent ejaculation, examining its possible impact on overall sexual health and well-being.
Reduce Stress and Fatigue
When you ejaculate, your body releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter linked to pleasure, into your system. In other words, dopamine enhances your mood and induces feelings of well-being.
Additionally, the hormone oxytocin, which is released during ejaculation, works to reduce cortisol levels. Cortisol is a primary stress hormone typically found in elevated amounts in individuals experiencing stress.
Engaging in masturbation and reaching climax can elevate these neurotransmitters and hormones, ultimately contributing to a greater sense of peace and contentment.
Reduce the Risk of Heart Disease
Research published in the American Journal of Cardiology suggests that individuals who engage in sexual activity two or more times a week may have a lower risk of heart disease compared to those who have sex less frequently.
Sexual activity can be considered a form of exercise, which may lead to improved blood flow throughout the body, including to the penis, due to increased nitric oxide production.
Increases Prostate Health
A study from 2016 revealed that individuals who ejaculate 21 times or more per month throughout their lifetime may reduce their risk of prostate cancer by approximately 31% compared to those who ejaculate four to seven times per month.
Helps Keep Genital Organs Healthy
While there’s a belief that abstaining from ejaculation for extended periods may lead to more intense orgasms, a 2001 study found that a three-week abstinence period did not affect the sensations experienced by men during ejaculation.
Supports Quality Sleep
Reduced testosterone levels have been linked to decreased sleep time, poorer sleep quality, frequent awakenings, and sleep disturbances, particularly in men aged 65 years and older.
Conversely, adequate sleep is associated with increased testosterone production. Men who sleep for fewer than five to six hours per night tend to have 10% lower testosterone levels.
Therefore, sufficient sleep supports optimal testosterone levels, leading to better overall sleep quality.
Conclusion
In conclusion, our exploration of “Does Semen Retention Increase Testosterone” has provided insights into this traditional approach to achieving a vibrant and fulfilling life.
Additionally, the article has highlighted the beneficial effects of masturbation on our overall well-being. Whether it’s stress reduction, heart health maintenance, or prostate wellness, regular ejaculation is shown to be crucial.
We invite you to share your personal experiences with us and to further engage with the insightful content on sexual health and wellness available from Sure Life Health. Let’s journey together toward a satisfying life.
Be sure to explore more insightful blogs from Sure Life Health, where we continue to shed light on the latest trends and breakthroughs in health and wellness.
Professor Gaye Cunnane, PhD, MB, FRCPI
As the Director of Health and Wellbeing at RCPI, Professor Gaye Cunnane is at the helm of initiatives aimed at enhancing the health and well-being of RCPI Trainers and Trainees. Her role extends beyond administration; she is also a respected clinical professor of rheumatology and a consultant rheumatologist at Trinity College Dublin (TCD) and St James’s Hospital. Prof. Cunnane’s medical journey began at TCD, where she graduated from medical school, and her path has been marked by both clinical and academic excellence.
After completing her basic clinical training in medicine, she embarked on PhD studies at University College Dublin and St Vincent’s University Hospital. Her research during this period was focused on prognostic markers in early inflammatory arthritis, a project that saw her collaborating with esteemed universities across Europe, including in Switzerland, The Netherlands, the UK, and Sweden.
Prof. Cunnane’s career took her to the University of California, San Francisco, where she spent three years delving into research on new treatments for lupus. Her academic prowess led her to the University of Leeds in 2001 as a senior lecturer, before returning to Ireland in 2003 to assume her current roles. She has also served as the National Specialty Director for Rheumatology training in Ireland, Programme Director for Basic Specialist Training with RCPI, and as a past President of the Irish Society for Rheumatology.
PUBLISHED ARTICLES
“Rheumatic disease differentiation using immunoglobulin G sugar printing by high-density electrophoresis”: Published in The Journal of Rheumatology, this study reflects her in-depth investigation into rheumatic diseases.
“Benefits of exercise in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a randomized controlled trial”: This research work, highlighting the positive impact of exercise on rheumatoid arthritis, underscores Prof. Cunnane’s dedication to practical, patient-centered research.
Additionally, Prof. Cunnane has made notable contributions to the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, discussing early referral, diagnosis, and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. She has also been involved in a study on the NCBI platform investigating exercise benefits in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
Professor Gaye Cunnane’s career is a testament to her commitment to improving patient outcomes in rheumatology through rigorous research, clinical excellence, and dedicated teaching. Her work continues to influence the field of rheumatology, both in Ireland and internationally.
