What Men Need to Know About Masturbation

Masturbation is a "Normal" Activity

Although seen as a taboo and perceived as a sign of mental problems in past periods, today masturbation is accepted as a "normal" and even "healthy" act. Research reveals that people who masturbate have reduced stress, sleep more comfortably, have alleviated headaches, increased self-confidence, and improved concentration.

Masturbation Does Not Affect Sperm Count

Masturbation in men does not lower sperm count; since the sperm production cycle continues continuously, men's sperm counts do not decrease due to masturbation. Likewise, the view that masturbation leads to male infertility holds no scientific value.

Masturbation Is Not Equivalent to Having Sexual Intercourse

Masturbation and sexual intercourse cannot be described as equivalent. While sexual intercourse improves men's general health, the effects of masturbation are not considered as comprehensive as sexual intercourse. The male body can distinguish between the two activities, and even the characteristics of the semen produced after both activities are not identical to each other. Nevertheless, I would like to remind you that there are studies obtaining data suggesting that masturbation may improve prostate health.

Masturbation Is Not Considered a Completely Risk-Free Activity

Although masturbation is accepted as the safest sexual activity, it can lead to unexpected results in some cases. Individuals who increase the frequency of masturbation may experience skin irritation, and forceful movements performed during masturbation can lead to a traumatic condition called penile fracture. Knowing these risks will prevent the occurrence of unwanted results.

There Is No Ideal Number for Masturbation

For the continuity of the sperm production cycle, a sexually active man needs to ejaculate at least 3 times a week. Men who do not have a regular sexual life can ensure the continuity of their sperm production cycles by masturbating. There is no limit regarding masturbation in men. However, a balance must still be established. It is known that repeating this act too frequently has the possibility of distancing the person from social life, creating an addiction, and causing a loss of interest in sexual partnerships.

Masturbation Does Not Indicate That Relationships Are Going Badly

The myth leading to the most negative consequences regarding masturbation is that the need for masturbation is a reflection of problems in emotional partnerships. Attributing an emotional meaning to masturbation is not a correct approach; many men may prefer to masturbate and do not perform this act for emotional purposes. Masturbation, performed sometimes to get rid of stress, reduce sexual tension, or sleep more comfortably after ejaculation, should not be interpreted as a harbinger of disaster for relationships or marriages.

Masturbation Does Not Lead to Erectile Dysfunction

Views that a person who masturbates will experience erectile dysfunction do not reflect scientific reality. However, the fact that men who constantly masturbate and start to see masturbation as the only way to reach sexual satisfaction may lose interest in their sexual partners should not be ignored. Therefore, possible side effects of the activity should be avoided by adjusting the frequency of masturbation correctly.

Boys in Puberty Can Masturbate

If you have a child entering puberty, you should not forget that trying to make sense of his physical changes is normal behavior. Approximately 80% of boys in puberty discover their bodies by masturbating; they meet the feeling of orgasm and sexual satisfaction. Parents need to approach their children with understanding during this period. Providing general information about sexuality without interfering with their privacy and without causing them to feel guilty is an option also supported by experts.