Recently, many men have taken on the “No Nut November” (NNN) challenge — pledging to abstain from ejaculation, masturbation, and pornography for the entire month, claiming it benefits both mental and physical health. However, urologist Dr. Chen Chung-Tso disagrees, warning that excessive abstinence can actually harm the body. He recommends that healthy men in their 30s should ejaculate two to three times a week to maintain good prostate health.
In a Facebook post, Dr. Chen explained that sperm doesn’t “age like fine wine.” On the contrary, prolonged abstinence can reduce sperm motility, and when prostate fluid isn’t released regularly, it can build up and increase the risk of prostate inflammation or infection.
“Think of it like car maintenance,” he said. “A man’s reproductive system needs regular upkeep. Maintaining a normal ejaculation frequency is important for long-term prostate health.”
That said, Dr. Chen also cautioned against excessive indulgence, noting that overactivity can damage the prostate and even cause bleeding — stressing that moderation is key.
To improve sperm quality, he advised men to focus on a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle, such as eating zinc-rich foods, avoiding long hours of sitting, and wearing breathable pants to “keep things cool and comfortable.”
Meanwhile, urologist Dr. Chu Hsin-Cheng addressed a common myth that frequent ejaculation makes the penis smaller. He clarified that penis size is determined by genetics, not frequency of sexual activity. However, good blood circulation, regular exercise, and a healthy lifestyle can enhance overall function and appearance.
Dr. Chu also shared three practical tips:
- Exercise and improve diet to boost blood flow and firmness.
- Do Kegel exercises or light massages to strengthen erectile tissue.
- Consume protein, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids to support testosterone production and maintain peak performance.
