Pros and Cons of Semen Retention

What is Semen Retention?

Semen retention is when men purposefully withhold their semen or cum. This unique type of fluid retention can be practiced by bringing oneself close to orgasm but stopping before ejaculation (a practice called edging), training your mind and muscles to achieve a dry orgasm (an orgasm without semen), practicing forms of tantric sex, or abstaining from sex, orgasms and masturbation altogether.

Benefits of Semen Retention

Many men who practice semen retention report a broad range of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual benefits. They talk in terms of discipline. This form of self-denial takes dedication, focus, commitment and training.

Physical – The elite-athlete-level health benefits that men attribute to semen retention include weight loss, increased energy, increased muscle mass, less hair loss, higher sperm quality, clearer skin, increased testosterone levels, greater stamina, increased vitality and a deeper voice.

Mental – Some men say that their minds are clearer when they abstain from ejaculation. They report increased concentration and focus, less anxiety and depression, better memory, more self-confidence, more self-discipline and increased motivation.

Emotional – It seems wholly counterintuitive that not ejaculating would reduce a person’s stress and anxiety levels, but that’s exactly what semen retention practitioners claim. They also say that their moods are better and that they’re happier in general. Many men say that they feel a greater sense of accomplishment because they were able to successfully exhibit self-control.

Spiritual – In ancient sexual practices and texts, such as tantric sex and the Kama Sutra, sex is elevated to a religious level. Following in their ancestors’ footsteps, modern-day semen retention gurus do so because they say they experience spiritual growth, deeper and more meaningful relationships as well as a stronger connection to the universe and others.

Downsides of Semen Retention

The general narrative around the semen retention trend is that there are many potential upsides with no downsides. But that may not be entirely true. While there is little scientific research to support the benefits of not cumming, there is some supporting evidence that the opposite, ejaculating frequently, is good for you.

One study by Harvard University followed 32,000 men over the course of 18 years and found that men in their 20s who ejaculated more (at least 21 times per month!) were 19 percent less likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer than those who ejaculated seven times per month or less. Men in their 40s who ejaculated more often were found to be 22 percent less likely to develop prostate cancer.

Should You Try Semen Retention?

When it comes to semen retention, make sure you do your research first and pay attention to what your body tells you. There’s nothing inherently wrong with ejaculating. On the flip side, it’s probably not going to kill you if you don’t ejaculate for a while.