Everything you need to know about semen retention
What’s semen retention?
Semen retention refers to the practice of avoiding ejaculation.
You can achieve this by abstaining from all sexual activity. You can also learn how to have an orgasm, but without ejaculating.
It may seem like a new trend, but the practice is almost as old as humanity.
There are many reasons people try it. Some may be spiritual, some emotional, and some physical.
Please continue reading to learn about the benefits of semen retention and how it works.
From where did this idea originate?
Although it might seem modern, the concept of men’s retention is not new. However, websites and forums make discussing these topics much easier.
It’s a concept that has been around for a while and is part of ancient practices.
There are many reasons people have for being interested in semen retention. Some believe that frequent ejaculation makes you weaker.
Some believe that semen retention can improve fertility, sexual pleasure, and physical health.
Many believe sperm retention can help redirect sexual energies to other areas or improve mental health and spiritual development.
It’s, for some, the ultimate journey to self-control.
Does it mean the same as “NoFap”?
Although “NoFap” is sometimes used in the same context of semen retention, it is not the same thing.
Its purpose is to provide information and support for people with compulsive sexual behaviour and improve relationships.
While it may be part of the discussion at times, NoFap is focused on breaking the dependence upon porn and not on semen retention.
Does it have any other names?
Other names for semen retention include:
- coitus reservatus
- Seminal conservation
- sexual continence
It is also part of other practices like:
- cai Yin and cai Yang pu Yin
- karezza
- Maithuna
- sexual transmutation
- Tantric sex
- Taoism
What benefits are claimed?
Many people point to several benefits that semen retention offers, including:
Mental
- More confidence and self-control
- Less anxiety and depression
- Motivational boost
- Better memory, concentration, overall cognitive function, and overall memory.
Physical
- greater vitality
- Muscle growth is increased.
- thicker hair, deeper voice
- Improved sperm quality
Spiritual
- Deeper relationships
- stronger life force
- Happier overall
Does this support the research?
This is a complex topic with many facets. Research is not sufficient. However, not having enough research does not necessarily mean that all claims are false.
This means that further research and long-term studies will be required to ensure you can draw firm conclusions about claims.
These are some of the published studies.
- Researchers conducted a systematic review in 2018 of studies regarding the duration of ejaculatory abstinence and other semen characteristics. The researchers were surprised at the quality and limitations of existing studies. There is evidence that a shorter abstinence period than one day is associated with improved sperm motility.
- A 2007 animal study found that the brain’s androgen receptors, which aid your body in making use of testosterone in your body, were lower when you have frequent masturbation.
- Researchers discovered a link between testosterone levels and ejaculation in a small 2003 researchTrusted Source. The seventh day of abstinence saw the highest testosterone levels among the 28 participants.
- A small 2001 study showed elevated testosterone levels among participants who had abstained for three weeks from masturbation.
- Researchers in a 2000 study found that sexual activity did not harm male athletes’ athletic performance. However, intercourse between two hours before a competition could.
