Semen retention - Is it healthy to hold in semen
                     Semen Retention: 
Is it healthy to hold in semen?
What is Semen Retention?
When it comes to semen, most men are typically concerned about how to ejaculate, more semen volume, and a 
higher concentration of sperm. 
However, there has been a rising growth in some men’s circles, where the exact opposite is their concern; how 
to ejaculate less.
Semen retention is referred to the avoidance of male ejaculation via sexual abstinence, where the act of 
ejaculation is prohibited to reap the benefits it offers. Semen retention also includes stopping before the point of 
ejaculation or even teaching yourself to orgasm without actually ejaculating.
This may seem like a fad, something new that shall pass; however, this practice is age-old and ancient. Much of 
the history of this practice is firmly rooted in Taoist sexual practices. It is believed that by practicing semen 
retention, the male could maximize their physical and spiritual energy.
Is it the same thing as ‘NoFap’?
No, not at all. The word ‘No Fap’ is often used interchangeably and in the same context as semen retention; 
however, both are from two different schools of thought.
NoFap is an organization, and this website is associated with a community-based porn recovery website. 
According to the website about page, it is explained that NoFap is not a verb, a principle, or a movement.
It states that the website’s purpose is to provide information and community support to help people who want 
to recover from compulsive sexual behavior and improve their relationships.
Is there any research to support this?
This is a complicated and multifaceted topic that lacks extensive research. However, it should be noted that not 
having research doesn’t necessarily mean all the claims about semen retention are false.
These are scientifical- measurable areas of impact of semen retention:
Increase in Testosterone levels
Increase in Brain Androgen Receptors (ARs)
Decrease in dopamine levels
Decrease in Prolactin levels
Increase in Testosterone Levels
This is one of the most scientifically provable results of semen retention; there is a considerable increase in 
testosterone levels.
A study conducted on male masturbation determined that when men don’t masturbate for 7 days, their testosterone 
levels spiked by 45.7% This could explain the number of purported physical benefits, including thicker hair growth, 
greater strength, deeper voice, power, and weight loss.
Some researchers have said this may also explain the psychological benefits, including increased energy and focus, 
boosting self-esteem and confidence.
Increase in Brain Androgen Receptors 
(ARs)
Several studies have been conducted that linked semen retention to intelligence.
A specific study suggests that androgen receptors play a very vital role in the body. A lack of testosterone means 
that androgen receptors are out of duty. ARs allow the body to use testosterone, which helps develop a deep voice 
and many other secondary sexual characters linked to men.
In lab mice with overly active sexual activity and satiety, it was also noted that it was linked to the reduced amount 
of androgen receptors in the body.
Decrease in Prolactin
Prolactin is the hormone released post an orgasm, hence relaxing the body and making the person feel sleepy.
Post an ejaculation; dopamine tends to reduce, whereas the prolactin increases, hence, causing your attention 
to waver. It takes about 15 days of abstinence to reverse these hormonal changes in the brain.
Key Takeaway
As of now, there is only limited evidence to provide a firm conclusion on the potential benefits of semen 
retention. However, there also isn’t evidence to suggest that this could cause any potential risks. 
As a person, it is your choice to abstain from sexual activity (willingly or unwillingly) *wink wink* However, 
you could also explore different avenues such as tantric sex, edging into your sex life. 
Source: https://www.formen.health/blog/healthy-semen-retention-hold/