Frequent Ejaculation May Help Lower Risk of Prostate Cancer, Study Suggests

Cancer is one of the leading health concerns in the United States, with estimates indicating that four in ten Americans will be diagnosed with some form of the disease in their lifetime. As a result, preventative health measures are more crucial than ever. While eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, and protecting skin from UV damage are well-known ways to reduce cancer risk, new findings suggest that there’s another surprising way men might protect themselves: regular ejaculation.

A groundbreaking study conducted by researchers at Harvard University found a potential link between frequent ejaculation and a decreased risk of developing prostate cancer. According to the research, men who ejaculate 21 times or more per month may reduce their risk of the disease by as much as 20%.

Understanding the Prostate

The prostate is a small, walnut-shaped gland located just below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It plays a vital role in the male reproductive system, primarily by producing the fluid that nourishes and transports sperm in semen.

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. While hearing the word "cancer" is undoubtedly unsettling, the prognosis for many men diagnosed with prostate cancer is optimistic. According to the American Cancer Society, only about 1 in 44 men diagnosed with the disease will die from it. As of today, more than 3.3 million men in the U.S. who were once diagnosed with prostate cancer are still alive.

What the Research Says

The Harvard study, published in European Urology in 2016, followed 31,925 men over an 18-year period, gathering data on their ejaculation frequency through three questionnaires distributed between 1992 and 2010.

The researchers stated:

“We found that men reporting higher ejaculatory frequency in adulthood were less likely to be subsequently diagnosed with prostate cancer.”

Importantly, the study suggests that frequent ejaculation may be particularly effective in preventing low-risk forms of the disease. The mechanism behind this protective effect isn’t entirely understood, but some scientists believe it could be due to the regular clearing of the prostate’s ducts, reducing the chance of inflammation or the buildup of potentially harmful substances.

Symptoms and Early Detection

Most early-stage prostate cancers are slow-growing and may not show noticeable symptoms. That’s why regular screening—especially for men over 50 or those with a family history—is critical.

When symptoms do appear, they typically involve urinary issues. These can include:

• Increased frequency of urination, especially at night

• Difficulty starting urination

• Weak or interrupted urine flow

• Blood in urine or semen

• Pain or burning during urination or ejaculation

If the cancer spreads beyond the prostate, it may lead to:

• Back or bone pain

• Unexplained weight loss

• Fatigue

• Erectile dysfunction

• Weakness or numbness in the legs or feet

Men experiencing any of these symptoms should consult a healthcare professional promptly.

Ejaculation and Other Health Benefits

While the primary focus of the Harvard study was on prostate health, other experts have pointed out additional benefits of regular ejaculation, particularly through masturbation.

German health provider Barmer Krankenkasse notes that masturbation may help promote better sleep by releasing endorphins that reduce stress and increase relaxation. Sex therapist Judith Golden supports this, telling Reader’s Digest: Best Health,

“Just like after sex with a partner, masturbation lowers blood pressure and boosts relaxation—making it a natural sleep aid.”

Taking a Holistic Approach

It’s important to view these findings as one piece of a much larger puzzle. Prostate cancer risk is influenced by various factors including age, genetics, lifestyle choices, and overall health.

According to the American Cancer Society:

• One in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime.

• Over 35,000 men in the U.S. are expected to die from the disease in 2025.

• African American men and men of Caribbean descent are at higher risk.

Other ways to reduce cancer risk include:

• Avoiding tobacco

• Limiting alcohol consumption

• Maintaining a healthy weight

• Exercising regularly

• Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

• Attending routine screenings

The Bottom Line

While frequent ejaculation—21 times a month or more—may contribute to lower prostate cancer risk, it’s not a standalone solution. As with any health advice, moderation, consistency, and a comprehensive lifestyle approach are key. If you're concerned about your prostate health or cancer risk, talk to your doctor about appropriate screenings and preventative strategies.