Does Frequent Masturbation Cause Prostate Inflammation or Cancer?

Does frequent masturbation cause prostatitis? Can it lead to prostate cancer?

Hello, Dr.
Lee.
I would like to ask, if someone frequently masturbates, will it lead to prostatitis? Is there an increased risk of prostate cancer? Is masturbating once a day considered excessive? If someone masturbates once a day for six to seven years, does it increase the risk of prostate cancer?

AOA, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/12/23

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology

There is no evidence to suggest that masturbation is related to prostatitis or prostate cancer.
While masturbating once a day in your twenties is not considered excessive, it is still recommended to cultivate healthy leisure activities.

Reply Date: 2014/12/23

More Info

Frequent masturbation is a topic that often raises concerns regarding its potential effects on prostate health, including inflammation and cancer risk. To address your question, it is important to clarify the relationship between masturbation, prostate inflammation, and prostate cancer based on current medical understanding.

Firstly, masturbation itself is a normal sexual activity and is generally considered safe for most individuals. Research has shown that regular ejaculation, whether through masturbation or sexual intercourse, may actually have protective effects against prostate cancer. A study published in the journal "European Urology" found that men who ejaculated more frequently (21 times or more per month) had a lower risk of developing prostate cancer compared to those who ejaculated less frequently. This suggests that regular ejaculation may help to clear out potentially harmful substances from the prostate and reduce the risk of inflammation and cancer.

Regarding prostate inflammation, known as prostatitis, it can occur due to various factors, including bacterial infections, pelvic floor muscle tension, and other non-infectious causes. While some studies have suggested that sexual activity, including masturbation, may contribute to prostatitis in certain individuals, there is no direct evidence linking frequent masturbation to an increased risk of prostatitis. In fact, many men who masturbate regularly do not experience any adverse effects on their prostate health.

As for the frequency of masturbation, masturbating once a day is generally considered within the normal range for many individuals. It is important to note that sexual health varies greatly among individuals, and what is considered "too much" can differ from person to person. If masturbation does not interfere with daily life, relationships, or cause physical discomfort, it is typically not a cause for concern.

In summary, there is no substantial evidence to suggest that frequent masturbation causes prostate inflammation or increases the risk of prostate cancer. In fact, regular ejaculation may have protective benefits. However, if you experience any symptoms such as pain, discomfort, or changes in urinary habits, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

In conclusion, maintaining a healthy sexual lifestyle, including regular ejaculation, is generally beneficial for prostate health. If you have specific concerns about your sexual health or prostate condition, it is always best to discuss them with a qualified healthcare provider who can offer personalized advice based on your individual health status and history.

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