Semen Retention: Is It Healthy to Abstain From Ejaculation?
Throughout history, men have always sought out new ways to improve their overall health. One technique that has been used since ancient times is semen retention, which is the practice of intentionally abstaining from ejaculation. Semen retention, which has been documented in many cultures, has been associated with both physical and mental wellness. One well-known example is tantric sex, which encourages men to abstain from ejaculation in order to connect with their partner on a deeply intimate level and experience a more profound sense of pleasure.
How Does Semen Retention Work?
Semen retention, aka purposely avoiding ejaculation, is believed to work by maintaining higher levels of vital energy and nutrients within the body. According to proponents, semen contains essential biological elements such as vitamins, minerals, and hormones that contribute to overall health and vitality. The practice is thought to conserve these elements, which are then redirected and utilized by the body for various physiological functions. By retaining semen, individuals aim to harness this energy for improved mental clarity, physical endurance, and emotional stability. The mechanism behind semen retention may involve the preservation of testosterone and other hormones, potentially enhancing mood, focus, and libido.
Are There Short- or Long-Term Benefits of Semen Retention?
While many modern practitioners believe that semen retention leads to a number of health benefits, there is very little scientific evidence to confirm the veracity of these claims. That being said, intentional abstinence from ejaculation doesn’t seem to cause any health problems either. As such, the advantages of semen retention are really determined by how the patient feels.
What Are the Reasons Men Try Semen Retention?
The reasons men try semen retention vary widely depending on the individual, but generally come down to improved physical health, mental health, or spiritual health. Some of the purported benefits include:
- Reduced stress
- Improved motivation
- Improved confidence and self-esteem
- A higher level of self-control
- Better concentration
- More energy
- More happiness
- Better relationships
- Increased stamina
- The ability to have multiple orgasms
Some also believe that semen retention can boost fertility by improving sperm quality or raising testosterone levels, which would also explain an increase in energy or improved mood. Although there is some evidence that there is a positive relationship between semen retention and testosterone levels, most of the supposed health benefits of semen retention have not been fully studied in a scientific manner.
What Happens to Sperm if There Is No Ejaculation?
In a traditional ejaculation, sperm is created in the testes and travels through the vas deferens, where it mixes with seminal fluid. The semen then travels through the urethra and out the penis. With semen retention, this process is disrupted. Just like with a vasectomy, which stops the sperm from finishing the journey, the unused sperm breaks down and is reabsorbed into the body.
Is Semen Retention Safe?
For the most part, semen retention is a safe practice, but there are a few things to consider. It’s important to note that, while many practitioners feel greatly improved by the practice, a positive experience won’t be true for everyone. For some, it might be painful or uncomfortable to abstain from ejaculation or lead to epididymal hypertension [also known as “blue balls”], which is a mild condition in which the testicles ache from arousal without orgasm.
Overall, unless you’re trying to conceive, semen retention is a fairly low-risk practice that you can try out. However, if you feel any pain or discomfort during this time, be sure to talk to a doctor. To learn more about male sexual health, contact Dr. Martin Bastuba and the Male Fertility & Sexual Medicine Specialists today.
