The Hidden Dangers of Abstinence: What Happens to Your Body When You Go Without Sex or Masturbation for Too Long
Negative Effects on the Body: What Happens When You Don’t Have Sex or Masturbate for a Long Time
Statistics reveal a worrying problem: the new generation (Gen Z) that has come of age has less sex than other generations in history. Experts warn that this could lead to penis shrinkage and other negative effects on the body.
Penile Atrophy: A Rare Condition Affecting Men
Dr. Tara Suwinyuenyutchaiphon, a sex and relationship expert, says men who are not sexually active may suffer from an extremely rare condition known as penile atrophy. This is where the penis tissue can lose its elasticity, causing the penis to shrink by one or two centimeters.
The Impact of Not Having Sex on Mental Health
Experts warn that not having sex for weeks, months, or even years can have a negative effect on mental health. Most men and women crave love, touch, and sexual connection with others. Without these things, mental health may deteriorate, leading to increased anxiety, depression, and stress due to unmet sexual needs.
The Benefits of Sex: Releasing Happy Hormones
Having sex releases happy hormones like oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin, also known as the “love hormones,” which regulate mood and improve overall well-being. Dopamine is a chemical released by the brain to give you a feeling of pleasure. However, if your body doesn’t produce enough dopamine, you may develop insecurities and decreased self-esteem.
The Impact on Men’s Health
Men are at a higher risk of developing medical problems such as penile atrophy and prostate cancer if they abstain from sexual intercourse for a long time. Researchers believe that carcinogens build up in the prostate over time, which increases the risk of cancer. However, studies have found that ejaculation may protect against cancer because it flushes out harmful chemicals that build up in semen.
The Impact on Women’s Health
When a woman has not had sex for several months, it can cause vaginal atrophy, making it uncomfortable to have sex next time. Some women may even experience pain during sex. Sexual activity increases blood flow, lubrication, and elasticity of the vaginal tissue. However, if you don’t have sex, women may experience vaginal atrophy, leading to thin and dry tissue, which may cause the vagina to shorten and make insertion more difficult.
Managing Stress and Improving Sexual Health
If you feel like you haven’t had sex in a long time, try to deal with stress first. Stress can make you neglect your partner or make you so anxious that you’re not in the mood at all. Stressed people are less likely to enjoy sex. Try finding stress-relieving activities like yoga, tai chi, meditation, or making time to hang out with your significant other often. It can help.