You may have heard of the practice of consciously avoiding ejaculation for supposedly physical, emotional and spiritual benefits. It may be accomplished by abstaining from sexual activity, but are there really any genuine benefits to semen retention?
While intentionally avoiding ejaculation may not be detrimental to men's health, it may be something men try for the promised benefits. The supposed benefits of semen retention include improved physical health, a more profound sense of spirituality, and a clear mind or improved relationships. But does it work? The reality is that it comes down to each individual's personal preference and how they feel.
What is Semen Retention?
The practice of semen retention may not be headline news, but it's also not new. Whether you've heard of it or not, you may be wondering what is semen retention and whether there are any benefits to semen retention.
It refers to avoiding ejaculating by either abstaining from sexual activity entirely or stopping sex before you reach the point of ejaculation. Some men have even learned how to orgasm without ejaculating. (1)
Other terms for it include:
- Seminal conservation
- Coitus reservatus
- Sexual continence
As an ancient practice, it was believed that ejaculating released inner strength and masculinity. It offered a greater sense of self and purpose and a deeper understanding of the spiritual world. (2)
It's practiced in various places, including Asia, India, and China, and is believed to be the essence of life force for men, and when you ejaculate, you release that life force. Its effects result in lower energy levels.
The Potential Benefits of Semen Retention
According to Medical News Today, there are a few possible benefits of semen retention, including better performance, improved health and vitality, and finding a deeper understanding of life. There are four main areas of enhancement that include:
- Mental health and mental clarity. Feeling more confident and in control, having less anxiety, enjoying a clear, focused mind, better memory, and increased motivation.
- Physical health. Feeling stronger, having thick, healthy hair, clear skin, and increased immunity.
- Sexual health and sexual energy. Better sexual performance, sperm quality and mobility, more satisfying intimate relationships and a deeper understanding of your body.
- Spiritual health. Overall satisfaction, strong belief in spirit, an understanding of life and our connection to the world.
While studies are limited on the benefits of semen retention, one study states that abstinence from ejaculating may positively influence the quality of semen and motility of sperm. (3) Another study found that frequent ejaculation can lower androgen receptors in the brain, (4) and according to Healthline, abstinence for a 7-day period increased testosterone levels. (5)
Common Misconceptions About Semen Retention
Misconceptions can sometimes be tough to separate from facts, so here are a few popular mythical benefits of semen retention.
- Improved fertility.
According to research, you may be able to increase sperm count and increase the volume of semen, but that's only for a few days and not a long-term effect. (6)
- Raise testosterone levels.
Sexual abstinence may raise testosterone levels. According to a study, (7) testosterone levels were higher after 3 weeks of abstinence but decreased again after ejaculation.
- Improve happiness
Happiness isn't improved by avoiding ejaculation. It's an internal factor that is more dependent on mindset and personality. But, as far as sexual wellness or happiness goes, it seems unlikely that semen retention will help.
How to Practice Semen Retention Safely
To safely practice semen retention, there are a few options that include:
- Abstain from sex. Avoiding all sexual activity is one way to retain semen. For some, it's restricted to abstaining with a partner; others may choose not to engage in any type of sexual activity, including masturbation.
- Edging. This is when you come to the edge right before ejaculation and stop. It can be difficult to find the right timing, but with practice, it can be done.
Benefits of Ejaculating
While there is little research on risks, it would depend on each individual and how they feel. If you don't see any benefits from the practice, there isn't a reason to continue. On the other hand, according to research, there are many benefits of ejaculation, including (8)
Immune health
A study reported that weekly sex sessions boosted the immune system. The study states that immunoglobulin A (IgA), the antibody in mucus such as what's in the nose, vaginal tissue and salivary glands, offered increased immunity.
Heart health
Stress can raise blood pressure, which negatively affects heart health. A study found that when people were satisfied with their sex lives, it was good for the heart. This is because foreplay and intercourse are forms of muscle strengthening and cardiovascular exercise. (9)
Reduces risks of prostate cancer
According to a study based on 30,000 men, those who ejaculated up to and more than 21 times per month had reduced risks of prostate cancer vs. those men who ejaculated less than ten times per month. (10)
That same study was extended for ten years, with those results confirming that men who ejaculated more often had a lower risk than those who ejaculated less. (11)
Stress reliever
Many people know that sexual activity, including orgasm and ejaculation, is a natural and fun way to relieve stress. A study looked at cortisol levels, which is a measure of stress, and found that participants who enjoyed intimacy with their partner reduced levels of cortisol. (12)
Improves sleep
The hormones that help reduce stress also contribute to helping us sleep. The release of hormones oxytocin and prolactin after orgasm induces feelings of satisfaction and well-being while reducing cortisol levels, making you relax enough to sleep. Even when flying solo, orgasm has the same effects enjoyed with a partner.
Dispelling The Myths Surrounding Sperm Retention and Testosterone Levels
Despite no clear proof of any benefits of semen retention and connecting it to testosterone levels, many myths and misunderstandings continue to exist. There is no clear proof relating sperm retention to testosterone levels. However, many myths and misunderstandings still exist. One common misconception is that frequent ejaculation can lower testosterone levels. However, scientific research has not supported this idea, as mentioned earlier.
Some people believe holding onto sperm can make you more energetic and productive. However, there is no scientific evidence to support the benefits of semen retention. In reality, keeping sperm for a long time can cause discomfort, pain, and health problems like epididymitis.
It's important to know that many things can affect hormone levels, like age, diet, exercise, and overall health. While semen retention doesn't directly change testosterone levels, living a healthy lifestyle keeps hormones balanced. It's also important to focus on sexual health and healthy aging instead of believing myths about sperm retention and testosterone levels.
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) from a healthcare provider and a proper medical consultation is the only surefire way to increase levels. Sexual discipline will not increase testosterone levels and could, in reality, affect sexual relationships with partners.
Hormones and healthy aging. Check your levels today
From better bone health to increased energy, see if optimizing your hormones could be the key.
Conclusion
While it may not be for everyone, some believe in the benefits of semen retention. Many believe it offers various benefits, including mental health in the form of more confidence, better memory and concentration, motivation, and less anxiety and depression.
Physical benefits of semen retention may include vitality and energy, increased muscle mass, and better sperm quality. And spiritual benefits such as deeper relationships and a better understanding of life. While not everyone may experience all these benefits, paying attention to what works for you for better overall health is essential.
