Reality behind not masturbating as 'health benefits' explained after doctor shared how often it should be done

We've all heard about how hard it can be for people to stop doing the deed altogether, but what affects will someone feel if they stopped masturbating?

You may be familiar with an annual social media trend coined as 'No Nut November', which involves men trying their best not to, err, relieve themselves sexually.

But what actually happens, health-wise?

People have shared varying accounts of what they noticed by the end of the month, but several participants admitted they had an increased sense of control among other things.

It has long been suggested that the action of abstaining can lead to a number of things, though it isn't widely known if the outcome is more positive than negative, or vice versa.

According to medical experts, a number of physical and psychological effects will occur.

Are blue balls linked to any health issues? (Getty Stock Image)

Effects of not masturbating

Physical effects

An article by Health.com states that testicles are constantly producing sperm, so if you do not ejaculate it, your body will simply reabsorb it.

I know what you're thinking - what about blue balls?

The phenomenon associated with pain as a result of feeling aroused without reaching completion actually has no links to medical concerns.

Discomfort usually ends without any treatment or intervention.

Psychological effects

The mental health effects of not masturbating are well-documenting, as different individuals will experience different feelings after going long periods of time without an orgasm.

While some say they experience clarity or inner peace, others can report frustration or irritation, according to the website.

There are currently no medically reported benefits that come with not ejaculating, though research has found that not ejaculating for days can increase sperm count and semen volume.

Health issues

However, some people might experience ejaculated-related health issues such as delayed ejaculation or an ejaculation, with this anxiety often taking place with sexual contact or desire.

Abstaining from masturbating may not be as beneficial as you think (Getty/Estradantoon)

How much masturbating is too much?

Well, immediate benefits to masturbating and finishing include reduced stress, an improved mood, and pain relief for some.

Taking to YouTube, Dr. Jen Claude gave her answer to the age-old question.

She began: "Before I give you the answer let me remind you that masturbation is perfectly fine, okay?

"Masturbation actually can be a very healthy part of overall life and fulfilment, so I don't want you to think that masturbation is not okay.

"There's not a top limit threshold. It's nothing like 'oh you can't masturbate more than this amount of times,' there's not a lower threshold, there's not a number of times in a day, a week, a month," Dr. Claude added.

"Certain people masturbate multiple times a day, some people masturbate only certain times every few months depending on whatever. Some people masturbate when they're in a certain mood, some people masturbate at other times, it just depends."

Basically, there is no set number of times for people to pleasure themselves, though you should look out for some warning signs.

The doctor said it was okay, 'so long as it doesn't interfere with your daily life; it doesn't interfere with your mental wellbeing, it does not interfere with your relationships; interfere with your ability to go to your job or lead a happy, healthy, productive.'

If this is the case, she advises seeing a medical professional.