Overview
Dr. Mohit Kara, a urologist and men's health specialist, discusses the overlooked consequences of stopping masturbation in later life, emphasizing its critical role in physical, mental, and emotional health for aging adults.
Negative Effects of Ceasing Masturbation in Older Age
Prostate and Urinary Health
- Regular ejaculation helps maintain prostate function and reduces risk of inflammation, BPH, and urinary issues.
- Lack of stimulation leads to prostate fluid stagnation, swelling, and potential need for medical intervention.
- Frequent urination, weaker stream, and nighttime bathroom trips often signal declining prostate health.
Cognitive Health and Mental Clarity
- Sexual activity releases neurochemicals (dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin) vital for memory, focus, and emotional stability.
- Absence of these surges may contribute to cognitive fog, loss of motivation, and increased risk of cognitive decline.
- Testosterone, important for mental sharpness, can decline faster with sexual inactivity.
Emotional Balance and Depression
- Masturbation provides emotional release, combating anxiety, tension, and low mood through oxytocin and endorphins.
- Ceasing self-intimacy can lead to emotional numbness, depression, withdrawal from activities, and diminished sense of self.
Sleep Quality
- Orgasm induces sleep-promoting hormonal shifts (oxytocin, prolactin, endorphins) and decreases cortisol.
- Older adults who stop masturbating may experience insomnia, fragmented sleep, and greater fatigue impacting daily function.
Pelvic Floor Strength and Circulation
- Regular sexual stimulation exercises pelvic floor muscles, supports bladder/bowel function, and maintains blood flow.
- Inactivity can cause muscle atrophy, urinary incontinence, sexual dysfunction, and loss of physical independence.
Immune System Function
- Sexual activity boosts immune agents like immunoglobulin A, reduces inflammation, and aids healing.
- Stopping results in lower immunity, more frequent illnesses, and slower recovery from infections.
Sense of Body Ownership and Self-Worth
- Self-touch reinforces connection to one’s body, bolsters self-image, and maintains motivation for self-care.
- Prolonged neglect may cause shame, withdrawal, decline in self-care, and a sense of invisibility or lost identity.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
- The cumulative impact of abstaining from masturbation can significantly affect physical, cognitive, and emotional health.
- Reclaiming self-intimacy is essential for circulation, hormonal balance, mental clarity, emotional health, and personal identity.
- Dr. Kara encourages older adults to view masturbation as a vital aspect of self-care, promoting presence and quality of life.
Recommendations / Advice
- Consider reintroducing regular, safe self-intimacy to protect overall health and well-being.
- Approach the subject with openness and self-compassion, recognizing it as a legitimate health practice.
- Consult healthcare providers with questions or concerns about sexual health in later life.