May 11, 2026, 11:18 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Prolonged sexual abstinence can negatively impact male health–with potential effects on hormone levels and the function of sexual organs. But how many sexual climaxes contribute to health? A study suggested the impressive number of 21 per month. FITBOOK consulted a urologist for insights on this finding.
Sex or masturbation is beneficial for well-being. There is also evidence that they play a role in overall health. Long periods of abstinence could have negative effects. Discussed impacts include a decrease in testosterone levels, atrophy of the erectile tissue in the penis, and erectile dysfunction. Conversely, regular ejaculations may positively affect testosterone levels and mental health. Additionally, regular ejaculation could reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer. This is at least how one might interpret findings from a Harvard study.
Connection Between Ejaculations and Prostate Cancer
“Scientists found in a long-term study that men who had at least 21 ejaculations per month from the age of 20 had a 19 percent lower risk of prostate cancer compared to those who ejaculated no more than seven times,” reports urologist Dr. med. Christoph Pies. “However, I must emphasize that this was a statistical correlation. It does not establish a confirmed protective effect from ejaculations.”
In the Harvard study, more than 30,000 participants were followed over a period of 40 years.1 The researchers had data on potential (prostate) cancer cases among the men as well as their reports on their sexual lives. The scientists concluded that those participants who frequently had sex or masturbated were less often diagnosed with prostate cancer compared to their less sexually active peers. There seems to be a connection. However, this does not mean that this represents a cause (21 ejaculations) and effect (protection against cancer).
One hypothesis for why frequent ejaculations (whether through masturbation or sex) are associated with fewer prostate cancer cases is that harmful, potentially cancer-promoting substances could be flushed out more often and thoroughly. Consequently, they remain in the prostate for a shorter period.2 According to Dr. Pies, other factors could also play a role. The expert mentions hormonal processes, reduced inflammation, or generally healthier lifestyle factors of sexually active men.
What Happens in a Man’s Body When He Hasn’t Had Sex for a Long Time
Can Even Prevent Diseases! The Health Benefits of Regular Sex
Other Discussed Health Benefits
Even if the effect on prostate cancer risk and the number of 21 times per month are not confirmed: Ejaculations can still be beneficial to health. As Dr. Pies further reports, regular ejaculation stimulates the immune system: “This is even scientifically proven.” This effect partly stems from better sleep after climax. And a restful night’s sleep is essential for the function of the immune system. Additionally, sex or masturbation releases endorphins (happiness hormones) and reduces the stress hormone cortisol. Therefore, research speculates that ejaculations may also prevent depression. According to Dr. Pies, studies repeatedly show that in this regard, even sex alone has a positive effect and “men who frequently masturbate are more confident and satisfied.”
But: Sex Should Not Become a Stress Factor
From an evolutionary perspective, the emergence of initial sexual sensations serves the continuation of humanity. According to Dr. Pies, one could also say that boys “practice” during masturbation for the real thing. They get to know themselves and their bodies to be prepared and fertile later. Up to the age of 25, men masturbate on average ten times a month. With increasing age and within a relationship, the frequency usually decreases–even though it would apparently be better otherwise.