Sex is an important part of overall health and wellbeing for people with penises. However, many wonder what happens if they go long stretches without having sex. Does lack of sex affect the penis in any way?
Doctors say there are a few key things that can happen to the penis when someone doesn’t have sex frequently or abstains for longer periods. Here are 4 things doctors want you to know about the effects on the penis when sex is infrequent.
#1 Tissue Can Shrink, Leading to Penis Shrinkage
One effect of not having regular sex is that the elastic tissue around the penis can become less elastic over time. This can result in some shrinkage of the penis.
Doctors say that refraining from sex for a long time or having sex very infrequently can cause the penis to become 1-2 cm shorter than its normal size when erect. This shrinkage occurs because of decreased elasticity and atrophy of the tissue surrounding the penis.
While a small amount of shrinkage may not be noticeable visually, doctors say men may notice the difference in length when erect. Some men may also notice the penis feeling tighter or more contracted when not erect.
Maintaining a regular sex life can help keep the tissue elastic and prevent this type of shrinkage or shortening.
#2 Higher Risk of Erectile Dysfunction
Another potential effect of abstaining from sex for longer periods is a higher risk of developing erectile dysfunction (ED) later in life.
Doctors say there seems to be an association between infrequent sex and increased likelihood of ED down the road. There are a few reasons this may occur:
- Lack of regular erections leads to reduced blood circulation to the penis over time. This can cause damage to erectile tissue.
- Low testosterone levels may develop, which are linked to ED. Sex and ejaculation help keep testosterone at optimal levels.
- Decreased confidence and psychological issues surrounding sex may develop, contributing to ED.
Therefore, doctors emphasize the importance of maintaining a regular sex life to reduce the chances of developing erectile difficulties. While abstaining from sex does not guarantee ED will occur, regular sex helps preserve function.
#3 Potentially Weaker Erections Overall
As mentioned above, erections rely on adequate blood circulation to the penis. When men have frequent erections from sex, masturbation, or other stimulation, it exercises the penile tissue and keeps blood circulation flowing well.
However, when erections are infrequent, the penile tissue can become less resilient and flexible over time. Weaker erections may occur, as the tissues are not receiving optimal oxygenation and blood flow.
Doctors say engaging in regular sexual activity helps “exercise” the penile muscles and tissues. Strong, firm erections rely on healthy tissues that are well-perfused by blood. Avoiding sexual activity for long periods allows these tissues to fall out of shape, potentially leading to softer or incomplete erections.
Therefore, having regular erections preserves tissue health and facilitates strong erections.
#4 Possible Increased Risk of Prostate Cancer
Some research shows there may be a link between frequency of ejaculation and prostate cancer risk in men. Studies found men who ejaculate often may be less likely to develop prostate cancer later in life.
Doctors speculate that frequent ejaculation, such as through sex or masturbation, may help flush toxins or potential cancer-causing agents out of the prostate gland. This helps prevent buildup of carcinogens.
While further research is needed, some experts believe infrequent ejaculation allows more time for toxins to accumulate in the prostate, potentially promoting cancer development. Therefore, regular sex and ejaculation may help reduce prostate cancer risk.
However, experts also emphasize other lifestyle factors like diet and exercise also play a major role in cancer risk. But optimizing sexual health appears to be beneficial.
In Conclusion
While lack of sex does not guarantee adverse effects, maintaining a regular sex life offers many benefits for penis health and function. Doctors recommend engaging in sex on a frequent basis for optimal sexual wellbeing.
Some key takeaways include:
- Sex helps keep penile tissue elastic and prevents shrinkage
- Frequent erections preserve tissue health and prevent erectile dysfunction
- Sex helps optimize testosterone levels and psychological health
- Ejaculation may help flush toxins from prostate tissue
Be sure to speak with your doctor if you notice any changes or have any concerns about your sexual health. But in general, making sex a regular habit is ideal for well-rounded health.