Mythbusters: Does Jerking Off Reduce Your Risk of Prostate Cancer?

Mythbusters: Does Masturbation Prevent Prostate Cancer?

Written by: Dr. Brian Steixner

Key Takeaways

Frequent ejaculation may reduce the risk of prostate cancer.

The Harvard ejaculation study showed men ejaculating 21+ times per month had a 20% lower risk for prostate cancer.

Masturbation is safe, natural, and part of healthy men’s sexual health.

Other lifestyle factors still play a major role in prostate cancer risk factors.

Self-pleasure is not only normal but might even be protective for your prostate.

Bustin’ a Nut or Bustin’ a Myth?

When most people think of prostate cancer prevention, their minds go to leafy greens, exercise, and annual checkups. Not many would say “jerking off.” But research suggests that how often you let your swimmers out for a lap might actually have something to do with prostate health.

So let’s cut through the myths, the shame, and the awkward small talk at your next doctor visit. The real question is: does masturbation prevent prostate cancer? And if so, how much alone time is considered doctor’s orders?

Spoiler alert: science says there’s a case for taking matters into your own hands. Literally.

prostate cancer

The Prostate: Your Walnut-Sized Frenemy

Let’s get anatomical. The prostate is a small gland that sits under the bladder and in front of the rectum. Its job? To produce seminal fluid—the nutrient-rich stuff that helps sperm survive their Olympic sprint toward an egg. Without it, the swimmers would be more like couch potatoes.

Prostate cancer happens when cells in this walnut-sized gland grow out of control. It’s one of the most common cancers in men, and while treatment has come a long way, prostate cancer risk factors like age, family history, and lifestyle choices still weigh heavily.

But here’s the curious part: researchers have long been intrigued by the connection between ejaculation and prostate health. Could regular release be your body’s DIY detox?

Masturbation: As Normal As Brushing Your Teeth

You already know what masturbation is. It’s sexual self-stimulation, whether solo or with a little assist from porn, fantasy, or toys. For centuries, it’s been surrounded by cultural shame, with rumors that it could cause blindness, hairy palms, or mental collapse.

So let’s get this out of the way: is masturbation healthy? Yes. Is masturbation harmful? No. Unless you’re doing it with sandpaper or in public without consent, it’s one of the safest, most natural things a person can do.

But when it comes to masturbation health benefits, the potential to reduce your risk of prostate cancer is what really makes people perk up.

The Harvard Ejaculation Study Everyone Talks About

Back in 2016, researchers at Harvard dropped a study in European Urology that rocked bedrooms everywhere. The so-called Harvard ejaculation study followed over 30,000 men for nearly two decades. Their findings? Men who ejaculated 21 or more times per month had a 20 percent lower risk of prostate cancer compared to those who ejaculated 4-7 times monthly.

That’s right: whether through sex or solo sessions, frequent ejaculation seemed to give the prostate a protective edge.

Another study published in JAMA back in 2004 echoed the same thing: in younger men, frequent ejaculation correlated with reduced risk. The effect was less clear in older guys, but still, the trend was there.

So, does this mean ejaculation is the ultimate prostate cancer prevention tool? Not exactly—but it might be part of the picture.

Ejaculation Detox Theory: Flushing Out the Bad Stuff

Here’s the working theory: ejaculation clears out old fluids and potential carcinogens that could otherwise linger in the prostate. Think of it like flushing your radiator or changing your car’s oil. You wouldn’t let gunk sit in your engine for months, so why let it sit in your gland?

This is sometimes called the ejaculation detox theory, and while not every scientist agrees, the idea is that frequent release keeps the pipes clean and less hospitable to cancerous changes.

Bottom line: whether you’re getting it on with a partner, having a solo date with your lube, or hitting that third round on a lazy Sunday, you’re giving your prostate a mini spring cleaning.

Prostate Cancer Risk Factors You Can’t Jerk Away

Before you crown masturbation the miracle cure, let’s be real. There are plenty of prostate cancer risk factors that no amount of stroking can erase:

  • Age: Risk goes up significantly after 50.

  • Family history: A dad, uncle, or brother with prostate cancer increases your odds.

  • Race: African American men face higher risk and more aggressive cancers.

  • Diet and lifestyle: High-fat diets, low exercise, and excess red meat can tip the scales.

  • Hormones: Elevated testosterone may play a role in cancer development.

So yes, go ahead and enjoy the masturbation health benefits, but don’t skip your doctor visits, your greens, or your workouts.

Masturbation Myths That Need to Die

Let’s set the record straight with some masturbation myths:

  1. Masturbation causes prostate cancer: False. In fact, it may help reduce risk.

  2. Masturbation weakens your prostate: Nope. There’s no evidence it harms your gland.

  3. Only masturbation counts: Wrong again. Ejaculation frequency, whether from sex or masturbation, is what matters.

  4. Masturbation and longevity don’t mix: Actually, regular sexual activity—including masturbation—has been linked to overall wellness and even better life expectancy.

So, if anyone tries to guilt you out of self-love, let them know you’re doing it for your ejaculation prostate health.

Is Masturbation the Only Way?

Nope. The ejaculation frequency and prostate cancer connection doesn’t discriminate between methods. Sex with a partner, a casual hookup, or even morning wood relief all count. What matters is consistency.

So if you’re a social butterfly with an active sex life, congrats, you’re covered. If you’re single and self-sufficient, you’re just as covered. And if you’re somewhere in between? Well, find your groove and stick with it.

And while we’re on the subject of keeping things fun, products like the Popstar Delay Spray can help you last longer if you want to extend the party, while Popstar Volume + Taste Supplement is here to keep your semen game strong. Because who says science-backed prevention can’t be sexy?

Other Masturbation Health Benefits

Even beyond prostate health, science shows that masturbation is good for you. Some of the masturbation health benefits include:

  • Stress relief and better mood

  • Improved sleep quality

  • Boosted immune function

  • Increased sexual awareness and confidence

  • Possibly improved cardiovascular health

So when you think of men’s sexual health, don’t forget that solo sex is part of the package.

Conclusion: Prostate Cancer Prevention Has Never Been This Fun

So, does masturbation prevent prostate cancer? The answer isn’t a hard yes, but the evidence leans toward frequent ejaculation being one tool in your prostate health toolkit. It won’t erase family history or age, but it could help lower risk—and in the meantime, it’s one of the safest and most pleasurable health hacks out there.

At the end of the day, balancing healthy lifestyle choices, regular checkups, and maybe a few more quality solo sessions is a smart way to look after your gland. Consider it self-care with fringe benefits.

FAQ: Masturbation and Prostate Cancer

Does masturbation prevent prostate cancer?

Studies suggest frequent ejaculation, including masturbation, may lower prostate cancer risk, but it’s not a guarantee.

How often should you ejaculate for prostate health?

The Harvard ejaculation study suggested 21 or more times per month may offer protective benefits.

Is masturbation healthy or harmful for the prostate?

Is masturbation healthy? Yes. Is masturbation harmful? No. In fact, it may contribute to better ejaculation prostate health.

Does sex work as well as masturbation for prostate cancer prevention?

Yes. The important factor is overall ejaculation frequency, not how it happens.

What are the main prostate cancer risk factors?

Age, family history, race, diet, lifestyle, and hormone levels are all important contributors.

Can masturbation reduce other health risks?

Yes. The masturbation health benefits include stress reduction, better sleep, and possibly even improved longevity.

What is the ejaculation detox theory?

It’s the idea that ejaculation flushes out toxins from the prostate, reducing cancer risk.

Does semen and prostate cancer have a connection?

Semen itself isn’t harmful, but the frequency of ejaculation may play a role in lowering risk.

Are there any masturbation myths still believed today?

Yes. Some people still believe it’s harmful, but science proves otherwise.

How can I reduce risk of prostate cancer beyond masturbation?

Focus on diet, exercise, and regular screenings. Ask your doctor how to reduce risk of prostate cancer for your unique situation.

Dr. Brian Steixner

Dr. Brian Steixner

Dr. Brian Steixner is a board-certified urologist and an expert in men’s sexual medicine. He completed his General Surgery and Urology training at The University of Pennsylvania and The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, one of the busiest and most comprehensive programs in the nation. During his career, Brian has treated thousands of men with sexual health issues including male factor infertility.

Dr. Joshua Gonzalez

Dr. Joshua Gonzalez

Dr. Joshua Gonzalez is a board-certified urologist who is fellowship-trained in Sexual Medicine and specializes in the management of male and female sexual dysfunctions. He completed his medical education at Columbia University and his urological residency at the Mount Sinai Medical Center. Throughout his career, Dr. Gonzalez has focused on advocating for sexual health and providing improved healthcare to the LGBTQ+ community.

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Dr. Gonzalez Answers

Popstar Labs cofounder Dr. Joshua Gonzalez is a board-certified urologist and Sexual Medicine expert, here to answer your questions

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