The Health Impact of Semen Retention: Separating Fact from Fiction

Ejaculation in men is a complex and fascinating process. It involves the release of semen, a mixture of sperm and other fluids, from the body during sexual arousal or orgasm.

For many men, ejaculation is a natural and enjoyable part of the sexual experience. But for some, the practice of semen retention has become a way to tap into the powerful benefits that this process can offer.

Semen retention is the practice of intentionally avoiding ejaculation, either through abstaining from sexual activity or by engaging in sexual activity without ejaculating. The practice has been used for centuries in Eastern cultures as a way to improve physical and mental health, increase energy levels, and boost overall well-being.

Proponents of semen retention argue that the practice can help men to build up their sexual energy, which can be harnessed and used for other pursuits. They claim that it can increase physical strength and endurance, improve mental clarity and focus, and even lead to a more profound sense of connection to one’s body and spirit.

While there is limited scientific evidence to support these claims, many men who have tried semen retention have reported experiencing positive changes in their health and well-being. Some have found that it has helped them to overcome sexual dysfunction, while others have reported feeling more confident and in control of their bodies.

Various practices of semen retention and alleged benefits

Semen retention is the practice of intentionally avoiding ejaculation, either through abstaining from sexual activity or by engaging in sexual activity without ejaculating. There are various practices that people may follow when it comes to semen retention, each with its own set of alleged benefits.

One common practice is called “dry orgasm” or “non-ejaculatory orgasm“, where a man will engage in sexual activity without ejaculating. This can be achieved through techniques such as the “squeeze” method, where the man will squeeze the base of his penis during orgasm to prevent semen from being released. This practice is believed to increase sexual energy and pleasure and potentially improve overall health.

Another practice is known as “edging,” where a man will bring himself close to orgasm multiple times but will stop before ejaculating. This is believed to help men improve their control over their ejaculation and increase sexual pleasure and stamina.

Some people also practice abstaining from sexual activity altogether for a period of time to build up their sexual energy. This is known as “celibacy,” and it’s believed to improve focus, energy levels, and overall well-being.

Possible benefits of semen retention:

• Increased sexual energy and pleasure: Proponents of semen retention argue that the practice can help to build up sexual energy, which can be harnessed and used for other pursuits.
• Improved physical strength and endurance: Some individuals have reported that semen retention can increase energy levels and improve physical strength and endurance.
• Improved mental clarity and focus: Some people claim that semen retention can lead to better mental clarity and focus, which can be beneficial for work and other pursuits.
• Increased self-confidence and self-esteem: Some people report that semen retention can lead to increased self-confidence and self-esteem.
• Reduced anxiety and depression: Some people report that semen retention can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
• Increased sperm count: Some people also argue that semen retention can increase sperm count, thus increasing fertility.

What does the science say?

First of all, it is vital to understand that semen retention is a lifestyle choice and not a health condition or disease. Generally, science is more interested in learning more about diseases and remedies. Unfortunately, it means that semen retention, though an age-old practice, remains relatively neglected by science.

Nonetheless, low testosterone levels and falling male fertility have become significant health issues in recent years. Additionally, researchers are also interested in the role of sex life and physical performance.

Thus, there are some studies that show some benefits from semen retention. However, it appears that here duration is the key. Semen retention for a few weeks is good for health. However, it seems that lifelong semen retention may not be good.

Thus, one of the recent systemic reviews found that short-term semen retention is good for sperm quality, which is expected as it provides the body some recovery time. ^[1]

Similarly, another study found that short-term abstinence may boost testosterone levels. Thus, semen retention for a week or even a bit more may significantly increase testosterone levels. ^[2]

Similarly, studies also show that young men who stay away from masturbating for a few weeks may have higher testosterone levels. ^[3]

Of course, there can be many other benefits. However, those benefits are difficult to understand through clinical studies due to significant individual differences in men.

Thus, some men may feel better after frequent ejaculation, while others may experience improved focus and energy levels after semen retention. Therefore, individual male characteristics must also be considered when discussing the subject.

To sum up

It appears that semen retention could help spice up your sexual life. It may also be good for your physical and mental health. Generally, most people will benefit by not ejaculating for a few weeks. However, abstaining from ejaculation for longer does not essentially help.

Additionally, it is vital to understand that there are no hard and fast rules, and there are massive individual differences. It means that most men would need to explore what works for them. For example, some may benefit from semen retention for a week, and others from semen retention for a longer period, like a few weeks or even a month.

Ultimately, whether or not semen retention is right for you will depend on your own personal beliefs and goals. However, it’s important to note that this practice should not be taken as medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for seeking professional help for any medical condition.

References

1. Ayad BM, Van der Horst G, S Du Plessis S. Revisiting The Relationship between The Ejaculatory Abstinence Period and Semen Characteristics. Int J Fertil Steril. 2018;11(4):238-246. doi:10.22074/ijfs.2018.5192
2. Jiang M. [Periodic changes in serum testosterone levels after ejaculation in men]. Sheng Li Xue Bao. 2002;54(6):535-538.
3. Exton MS, Krüger TH, Bursch N, et al. Endocrine response to masturbation-induced orgasm in healthy men following a 3-week sexual abstinence. World J Urol. 2001;19(5):377-382. doi:10.1007/s003450100222