How does ejaculation affect prostate health?

From the Guidelines

Regular ejaculation appears to benefit prostate health by potentially reducing the risk of prostate cancer and relieving symptoms of prostatitis. Studies suggest that men who ejaculate more frequently (around 21 times per month) may have a lower risk of developing prostate cancer compared to those who ejaculate less often 1. This protective effect might occur because ejaculation helps flush out potential carcinogens and bacteria from the prostate gland, preventing the buildup of substances that could cause inflammation or cellular damage. Ejaculation also promotes the turnover of prostatic fluid and reduces the concentration of inflammatory mediators in the prostate. For men with chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome, regular ejaculation may help relieve symptoms by decreasing prostatic congestion and pressure. However, the relationship between ejaculation and prostate health is complex, and other factors like genetics, diet, exercise, and overall health also play important roles in prostate health. If experiencing prostate-related symptoms, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider rather than relying solely on ejaculation frequency changes.

Some key points to consider:

• The lack of ejaculation may not directly cause harm to the prostate, but regular ejaculation may have a protective effect against prostate cancer and prostatitis.
• The relationship between ejaculation and prostate health is complex and influenced by multiple factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and overall health.
• Men with prostate-related symptoms should consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment, rather than relying solely on changes in ejaculation frequency.
• The American Urological Association and other medical organizations provide guidelines for the management of prostate health and sexual dysfunction, which may include treatments such as medication, lifestyle modifications, and counseling 1.

It's crucial to prioritize a comprehensive approach to prostate health, considering both the potential benefits of regular ejaculation and the importance of individualized medical care. By doing so, men can make informed decisions about their health and well-being, and healthcare providers can offer evidence-based guidance and support.

From the FDA Drug Label

Treatment with finasteride tablets for 24 weeks to evaluate semen parameters in healthy male volunteers revealed no clinically meaningful effects on sperm concentration, mobility, morphology, or pH. A 0.6 mL (22. 1%) median decrease in ejaculate volume with a concomitant reduction in total sperm per ejaculate was observed. These parameters remained within the normal range and were reversible upon discontinuation of therapy with an average time to return to baseline of 84 weeks.

The lack of ejaculation does not have a direct negative effect on prostate health according to the provided drug labels 2 and 2.

• Key points:
  • The drug labels do not mention any negative effects of lack of ejaculation on prostate health.
  • Finasteride treatment caused a decrease in ejaculate volume, but this parameter remained within the normal range and was reversible upon discontinuation of therapy. However, it is essential to note that the provided information does not directly address the question of how ejaculation affects prostate health.

From the Research

Ejaculation and Prostate Health

• The relationship between ejaculation and prostate health is complex, with some studies suggesting a potential link between the two 3.
• A study published in 2016 found that men who reported higher ejaculation frequencies had a lower risk of prostate cancer, particularly low-risk disease 3.
• However, other studies have focused on the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and the role of 5alpha-reductase inhibitors in reducing prostate volume and improving symptoms 4, 5, 6.
• These studies do not directly address the impact of ejaculation on prostate health, but rather explore the effects of medication on BPH symptoms and disease progression.

Prostate Cancer Risk

• The 2016 study mentioned earlier found that ejaculation frequency was inversely related to the risk of prostate cancer, with men reporting 21 or more ejaculations per month having a lower risk of PCa incidence compared to those reporting 4-7 ejaculations per month 3.
• However, it is essential to note that this study did not investigate the direct effects of ejaculation on prostate health, but rather explored the association between ejaculation frequency and PCa risk.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) Treatment

• Studies have shown that 5alpha-reductase inhibitors, such as finasteride and dutasteride, can effectively reduce prostate volume, improve symptoms, and decrease the risk of acute urinary retention and need for surgical intervention in men with BPH 4, 5, 6.
• These medications work by inhibiting the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) locally within the prostate gland, which contributes to prostate growth and BPH symptoms.

Limitations and Future Research

• The current evidence base does not provide a clear answer to the question of whether the lack of ejaculation has a negative impact on prostate health.
• Further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between ejaculation and prostate health, including the potential mechanisms by which ejaculation may influence prostate cancer risk and BPH symptoms.