Male masturbation can contribute to stress reduction and improved sleep quality, and is also associated with potential benefits in preventing erectile dysfunction and reducing the risk of prostate cancer. Doubt it? Let’s explain the 7 benefits of masturbation for men’s health based on scientific research. Learn more.
The benefits of masturbation for men’s health go beyond pleasure. When practiced in moderation, it can improve mood and sleep quality, as well as help reduce the risk of erectile dysfunction and prostate cancer.
Today’s blog will bring you what science says about the importance of masturbation for men’s health and we will also explain when it can become harmful.
7 benefits of masturbation for men
Male masturbation is perfectly normal and beneficial for both physical and mental health. Discover 7 benefits:
1. Stress relief
Relieving stress is one of the main benefits of masturbation, as serotonin and oxytocin are released during orgasm. These hormones are associated with pleasure and relaxation.
However, while masturbation can provide a sense of well-being, it shouldn’t be seen as the only way to achieve it. Emotional self-care activities such as yoga, meditation, and therapy are important for mental health.
2. Body exploration and self-awareness
Masturbation allows men to explore their bodies and discover erogenous zones, areas with many nerve endings that produce pleasure when touched.
This self-awareness gained through masturbation contributes to sexual satisfaction, as men become more aware of what gives them pleasure and may experience more intense orgasms.
3. Reduced risk of erectile dysfunction
When a man masturbates, he prevents penile disuse, a condition in which the tissues of the penis atrophy, and the blood vessels that supply the penis lose elasticity because the organ is not stimulated frequently.
Regular stimulation can help maintain the health of penile tissues, muscles, and blood vessels, which may contribute to the maintenance of healthy erections.
However, this does not mean overdoing it, as excessive masturbation can have negative effects. Although there is no specific number of times a man can touch himself, the practice may harm psychological and physical health. Some of the dangers of compulsive masturbation include:
- Reduced work and study performance;
- Negative impact on family, romantic, and social relationships;
- Irritability;
- Irritation of the penis.
4. Improved mood and sleep quality
During ejaculation, the body releases prolactin, a hormone associated with drowsiness.
If a man is unable to fall asleep, or if sleep is interrupted, it is important to seek medical advice, as sleep difficulties may be a sign of emotional problems or physical issues such as hormonal imbalances, chronic illnesses, or gastrointestinal disorders.
5. Prevention of urinary incontinence
One of the lesser-known benefits of masturbation for men is the prevention of urinary incontinence.
This occurs because the muscle contractions during orgasm promote the strengthening of the pelvic floor, an area that includes the bladder, rectum, prostate, and genitals. With this area strengthened, the risk of urinary incontinence is lower.
Regular masturbation can contribute to the health of the pelvic floor muscles and improve penile blood circulation, which may aid in the maintenance of erections. Proper blood flow is essential for strong and lasting erections.
However, masturbation is just one tool in treating incontinence and erectile dysfunction. Men facing any of these issues should see a doctor to investigate the causes and receive appropriate treatment recommendations.
6. Reduced risk of prostate cancer
According to a study published in 2018 by the European Urology, men who ejaculate 21 times a month have a 31% lower risk of prostate cancer.
In this study, more than 30,000 men aged 20-29 and 40-49 answered a questionnaire about how many times they ejaculated per month and were followed from 1992 to 2010. After 18 years, 3,839 were diagnosed with prostate cancer.
The study did not clearly explain why ejaculating 21 times a month helps reduce the risk of prostate cancer. The most likely explanation is the elimination of toxins that may inflame the prostate.
However, masturbation does not replace the annual check-up routine that includes the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test and the digital rectal exam, both crucial for detecting prostate cancer.
7. Strengthening the immune system
The benefits of masturbation for the immune system have also been studied.
A study with 11 men conducted in 2004 confirmed the link between orgasm and immune strength. The volunteers masturbated to orgasm and had their blood tested afterward.
The results showed a temporary increase in prolactin, a hormone that can boost antibody production and immune cell activity.
Although the orgasm achieved through masturbation and sexual intercourse positively impacts the immune system, it is essential to invest in healthy foods and pay attention to the following items that enhance immunity:
- Sources of Vitamin C: orange, acerola, tangerine, lemon, pineapple;
- Sources of Vitamin A: mango, papaya, carrot, pumpkin;
- Sources of zinc: beans, lentils, peas, nuts, round steak, and white meats;
- Dark green vegetables: kale, broccoli, spinach;
- Garlic;
- Propolis;
- Probiotics.
Masturbation can bring physical and mental health benefits to men when done in moderation.
But be careful! Masturbation becomes a problem when men prioritize self-satisfaction and neglect their professional, academic, family, romantic, and social relationships.
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