The American Cancer Society reports that about one in seven American men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point in their lives. This condition is the second leading cancer-related cause of death in men, making prostate cancer prevention a key concern for men. There is a potential link between prostate health and penis health that men should be aware of involving the benefits of frequent masturbation; this article sums up the available research on the topic.

What is Prostate Cancer?

The prostate gland is a small structure located between a man’s bladder and penis. One of its primary functions is to release fluids that protect and nourish semen. When a man ejaculates, the prostate squeezes the protective fluid out into the urethra.

Prostate cancer occurs when abnormal cell growth causes a tumor in the gland. Cancerous cells can spread through the body from the prostate; this generally occurs slowly, making early detection and treatment highly effective. The main symptoms of prostate cancer are:

- Decreased force in urine stream

- Difficulty urinating

- Blood in the urine

- Blood in the semen

Men who present with any of these symptoms should see a doctor promptly.

The Connection between Masturbation and Prostate Health: 3 Studies

Several studies have been conducted to find out whether masturbation frequency is linked to incidence of prostate cancer. Overall, the trend of research suggests that frequent self-pleasuring may have a preventive effect, although this is not set in stone. Those who believe that masturbation is protective of prostate health theorize that carcinogenic (cancer-causing) substances may be released with semen during ejaculation, lowering cancer risk in the prostate area.

The Harvard Health Professionals conducted a study involving 29,342 men who reported their average releases per month from early adulthood on - this included releases from masturbation, sex and nocturnal emissions. Men who reported at least 21 emissions per month had a 33% lower risk of developing prostate cancer than did those who reported only four to seven emissions per month throughout their lives.

Research out of Australia supported the findings of the above study. This study involved 2,338 men. Participants who reported between 4.6 and seven emissions per week on average were 36% less likely to receive a prostate cancer diagnosis by the age of 70 compared to men who reported fewer than 2.3 ejaculations per week.

Finally, one should take note of a study whose findings were contrary - at least partially - to the results of the two above. This one involved over 800 men - 431 who had been diagnosed with prostate cancer by the age of 60 and 409 controls without cancer. Researchers found that men who reported high partner-based sexual activity frequency in their 20’s were most at risk for developing prostate cancer; men who masturbated most frequently in their 20’s and 30’s had an increased risk as well. Emission through masturbation was linked to the highest risk. However, the trend switched once men were in their 40’s and 50’s, at which point frequent ejaculation exhibited a protective effect.

The Take-Away

The science on prostate health and masturbation is not conclusive, but overall seems to suggest that frequent cranking may protect against cancer in the gland, particularly for older men.

Maintaining Penis Health

It is fairly well-established that regular use is good for the penis, allowing it to stay strong and functional into old age. Another way to support the well-being of the tool is to apply a penis health cream (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil). A quality product will contain ingredients that support circulation, such as vitamin C and L-arginine. Other helpful ingredients are Shea butter and vitamin E, which work to hydrate the skin, keeping it smooth and supple. This extra moisture can help combat dry and sore skin that may result from frequent use.