Can Sex Decrease Prostate Cancer Risk?

Could more time in between the sheets help keep your prostate healthy?

While nearly one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point during their life, research suggests that more frequent ejaculation could lower this risk.

A 2016 study of almost 32,000 men found that those who ejaculated at least 21 times per month reduced their risk of prostate cancer by about 20% compared with those who ejaculated four to seven times per month.

According to urologist Dr. Brad Gill, the effect of sex (or ejaculation) on prostate health remains somewhat of “a big question mark,” but a theory, called the “prostate stagnation hypothesis,” is that carcinogens naturally build up in the prostate, and as they accumulate, the risk of prostate cancer could grow. Ejaculation may sweep out those potential carcinogens and lower the risk of cancer.

A 2018 study found potential biological processes that could link the frequency of ejaculation and prostate cancer tumor development. 

Other health benefits of sex and ejaculation include:

• Lower stress—Your body releases the feel-good hormone dopamine during ejaculation, which leads to feelings of happiness and relaxation.
• Burning calories—Sex can burn more than 100 calories, according to research.
• Boosting your immune system—People who have sex 1-2 timers per week have higher levels of illness-preventing antibodies.
• Reducing pain—Endorphins released during sex serve as natural pain relievers, and sex may actually help relieve headaches and migraines.