Many fictions and fallacies surround the impact of masturbation on male fertility. Does masturbation reduce sperm count? Can it cause male infertility? Does frequent masturbation harm chances for conceiving? If you have been looking for answers to this and other related questions, you’re not alone. Male masturbation is a subject of wide interest, yet continues to be surrounded by misinformation. We will let you know the effects of masturbation on sperm counts, fertility, and even reproductive health in this blog. So, please sit back, relax, and read on to learn everything you need to know about this topic.
Does Masturbation Reduce Sperm Count & Affect Fertility?
The short answer is no — it has absolutely nothing to do with the sperm count & male’s fertility. Masturbation, whether moderate or frequent, doesn’t directly cause infertility in men. Infertility in males can be attributed to many causes, including genetics, lifestyle, diet, and previous medical condition-not merely masturbation.
However, the relationship between the frequency of ejaculation and sperm quality is complex. While various studies suggest that frequent ejaculation may temporarily lower sperm volume, it does not cause permanent conditions like infertility. So, does ejaculating multiple times reduce sperm count long-term? To understand this better, let’s begin by exploring how sperm is produced.
Understanding Sperm Production
The male reproductive system continuously produces sperm through a process known as spermatogenesis, which occurs in the testes. The entire process for the production of sperms takes about 74 days and involves the maturation of sperm cells. Sperm production is relative to many factors, including age, lifestyle, and the overall well-being of the reproductive system.
After ejaculation, the male body replenishes its supply of sperm perfectly. This means that masturbation or frequent sexual activity does not reduce sperm levels much. In fact, healthy males produce millions of sperms every day. Unless there is a relevant medical condition, masturbation will not reduce sperm count to a level that may negatively affect fertility.
Is Semen Retention Good For Fertility?
There’s a growing trend in some circles advocating for semen retention — the idea that avoiding ejaculation will boost fertility and improve reproductive health. The truth is, this concept is more myth than fact.
There is no scientific evidence that proves semen retention improves sperm quality and fertility. In fact, there are some studies that depict the concept that frequent ejaculation increases sperm health-the fact is through sex or masturbation, it reduces oxidative stress and removes older sperms from the system. Excessive retention of semen may lead to immobile sperms, which is not advisable when those trying to conceive.
Is It Okay To Masturbate While I’m Trying to Conceive?
Yes, it’s perfectly fine to masturbate while trying to conceive. Regular ejaculation, be it by sex or masturbation, may also contribute to optimal sperm quality. The important thing to remember is moderation. Frequent sex or masturbation in one day can reduce sperm volume by a tiny degree, but it does not necessarily result in permanent infertility and definitely does not significantly impair your conception chances.
Well, studies have shown that the quality of sperm is at its peak a few days after abstaining from sex, but that does not mean that one should not masturbate. As long as you’re maintaining a healthy lifestyle, then masturbation does not negatively affect fertility. Therefore, for those wondering, “does masturbation affect pregnancy?” — the answer is no, it doesn’t hinder the chances of conception.
Does Masturbation Cause Infertility In Men?
A very common myth is that masturbation causes impotency. Scientific studies have time and again proved this to be a false statement. As found earlier, facts revealed that infertility occurs due to different reasons that may include hormonal imbalances, infection, and genetic factors or lifestyle disorders such as smoking, improper diet, and excessive alcoholism.
Masturbation is normal and healthy sex activity if practised in moderation. This has no long-term effects unless other health-related problems are present.
The Benefits Of Masturbation & Ejaculation
Believe it or not, masturbation has several other health benefits besides sexual pleasure. Ejaculation, whether through sex or masturbation, helps to:
- Flush out the older sperm, thus leaving the newer, healthier sperm for conception.
- Reduce stress and improve mood by releasing endorphins.
- Improve prostate health, potentially lowering the risk of prostate cancer.
While there is no clear evidence linking masturbation to improved fertility, the benefits it offers, such as stress relief and sperm turnover, are undoubtedly positive for overall sexual and reproductive health.
Does Masturbation Reduce Sperm Count?
Frequent ejaculation, especially multiple times a day, may temporarily decrease the sperm count. It’s because the semen replenishes itself after every ejaculation. However, the masturbation effect on sperm count doesn’t equate to clinically low sperm count or long-term fertility issues.
The good news is that sperm production ramps up quickly. Regular ejaculation over a long period of time will not result in persistent low sperm count unless an underlying medical condition is involved. Thus the notion that masturbation alone leads to long-term depletion of sperm holds no water.
Impact of Masturbation on Sperm Count, Quality, & Volume
Masturbation will temporarily affect sperm count, quality, and volume. These effects are, however, short-lived. After frequent ejaculation, sperm volume may decrease, and the concentration of sperm in semen might be lower. However, after a short recovery period, sperm levels generally return to normal.
Another important factor that should be taken into account is quality. If sperm is retained too long, it can age and lose its motility, making it less likely to fertilise an egg . Therefore, regular ejaculation could be beneficial for sperm health, as it ensures that fresh, motile sperm are available when trying to conceive.
Effect Of Masturbation On Testosterone Levels & Testes Size
Some myths claim that masturbation decreases testosterone level or shrinks testes, which is entirely a fable. While ejaculation may sometimes transiently suppress the testosterone level, it does not cause lasting alterations in testosterone levels or testicular size. Testosterone levels typically return to normal shortly after orgasm.
The Bottom Line!
In summary, masturbation adversely impacts sperm count and quality in the short term, but it does not have a lasting negative impact on fertility or sperm health. Moderation is key, but overall, the occasional solo session is nothing to worry about when trying to conceive. So, relax — masturbation is a normal healthy part of male sexuality.
To proactively monitor your sexual health, consider using LifeCell at-home, semen analysis test collection kit- SpermScore. This comprehensive solution evaluates 14 sperm health conditions and 11 parameters, all from the comfort of your home. Plus, you won’t need to visit a laboratory; results are delivered directly to your personalised dashboard within days.
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