Masturbation Effects on Kidneys: 4 Benefits and Myths

Masturbation is a common practice in men and women for instant gratification. It is an act of rejuvenating one's emotional and physical health. Studies show that having regular orgasms carry excellent health benefits. However, besides being a pleasurable activity with added healthcare benefits, there are interesting myths and several benefits related to Masturbation. So, scroll down to understand masturbation effects on kidney in detail.

Does masturbation effects on kidney?

There is no evidence to suggest that Masturbation negatively compromises the healthy functioning of the kidneys. The truth is, Masturbation does not affect the kidneys. It cannot. The science behind this is that kidneys are organs that remove waste and toxins from our bodies through urine. The kidneys work harmoniously with the urethra, ureters, and urinary bladder. Together, they ensure that the acidic urine does not kill the sperms present in the semen. When a man masturbates and ejaculates, the internal sex plumbing shuts down the urinary bladder. A sphincter muscle present at the base of the bladder is also closed, thus eliminating any contact between sexual performance and the kidneys.

Also, Read Kidney, Ureters & Urinary Tract Infection: 14 Common Diseases

Myths about Masturbation affecting kidneys 

Now that we understand the scientific mechanics of the human body, it is easier to debunk some of the myths about masturbation's effects on kidneys or Masturbation causing kidney dysfunction: 

1. Myth: Masturbation causes kidney failure -

Reality: This myth has been passed down through centuries and comes from ancient Chinese culture. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, the Chinese believed that kidneys were a reservoir of semen. They also believed that the "kidney essence" was drained with frequent Masturbation leading to imbalances in the kidney. As one old Chinese saying puts it, "One drop of semen is worth 10 drops of blood" You can imagine how deep their study was in believing that regular Masturbation would weaken an individual's overall health.  However, these claims have no scientific evidence nor scientific backing that Masturbation can be harmful to one's health in any way.

2. Myth: Masturbation weakens the kidneys -

Reality: Some people believe that loss of proteins through semen expulsion is the cause of weak kidney health. In fact, semen contains a tiny amount of nutrients that serve only one purpose providing nourishment to the sperm. This loss is negligible and does not relate to protein loss in the body. The amount of protein lost in a single ejaculation can be replenished by taking just 1/2 a tablespoon of milk!

3. Myth: Masturbation can cause a UTI -

Reality: This is in close relation to the myth that Masturbation affects the regular functioning of kidneys. Masturbation does not cause a UTI, but unclean practices can.

•  Men who do not follow clean habits while masturbating are prone to the consequences of developing a urinary tract infection (UTI)
•  Not cleaning up after masturbating can form a thick, white, sticky substance to build up around the penis. This substance, called Smegma, is essential to lubricate the penis during sexual intercourse. But when left uncleaned, the build-up of Smegma can lead to a penile infection called Phimosis (tightening of the foreskin)
•  Another common infection caused by using unclean, soiled hands to perform Masturbation is Balanitis. This infection causes inflammation of the head and the penis. The symptoms of this infection include an extreme burning sensation while urination and discomfort while moving around.

Sure, if a UTI is left untreated, it can travel upwards to affect the kidneys, but Masturbation is not responsible for causing the UTI and therefore does not directly affect the kidneys.  

4. Myth: Masturbation causes back pain.

Reality: Back pain during Masturbation can be a sign of bad posture. Pain in the lower back or pelvis can be an early symptom of a UTI or kidney stones. While there is no evidence that Masturbation causes kidney stones, a popular study suggests that Masturbation can reduce the size of kidney stones. The epididymis is the duct that stores semen. Excessive or addictive Masturbation may cause swelling and inflammation in this duct that may cause pain in the pelvic region. This pelvic pain could extend to the lower back. However, this is a scene only in extreme cases of addiction and not during normal Masturbation.

 Also, Read 7 Tips on How to Prevent Kidney Failure.

Benefits of Masturbation for healthy kidneys

According to a study published in the International Urology and Nephrology Journal, it was found that masturbating 3-4 times a week, along with the medication Tamsulosin, reduced the size of the kidney stones in the patients, as against the control group that did not masturbate while taking the medication. This study raises an interesting concept, but more evidence is required to ultimately establish the fact. Check out the Best Masturbation Toys for Men.

Other health benefits of Masturbation

• Masturbation increases the levels of feel-good hormones in the body, such as These hormones are known to,
  1. Dopamine
  2. Testosterone
  3. Endorphins
  4. Oxytocin
  5. Elevate mood
  6. relieve stress and anxiety
  7. promote calmness
  8. help insomnia
  9. increase wellbeing

• Studies show prostate cancer is 10% lower in men who regularly masturbate.
• Masturbation can overcome erectile dysfunction. More frequent orgasms also improve cardiac health.
• Masturbation boosts immunity by increasing the circulation of white blood cells.

Side effects of Masturbation -

Masturbation is a healthy and safe practice with amazing health and mental benefits. However, there may be a few physical and emotional effects of frequent Masturbation, includes,  

1)  Guilt:

Sex is still taboo in most cultural, religious, and spiritual backgrounds. Masturbation is normal practice, and talking to a close and trustworthy friend may help overcome this emotion. 

2)  Addiction:

Uncontrollable Masturbation is termed an addiction. You could be a victim of addictive Masturbation if you experience the following, 

• if Masturbation interferes with your daily life
• you cannot stop thinking about if 
• you masturbate without being aroused 
• you choose to masturbate in public 
• you bail on important occasions only to masturbate. 

3) Physical pain: 

• Men who use a tight grip to masturbate can desensitize the nerves in the penis, causing a reduced feeling in the penis, a condition known as Death Grip Syndrome. 
• excess Masturbation may also cause soreness and body pain. It is important to rest and take breaks between following sexual activities. 
• If pain in the penis or body pain is frequently accompanied by Masturbation, consult a doctor to rule out any underlying cause of the pain.

Also, Read 11 Healthy and Delicious Low-Calorie Snacks That Will Help You Lose Weight

Conclusion: 

Masturbation does affect the kidneys. Masturbation does not in any way harm the normal functioning of the body. Instead, Masturbation is recommended to promote a healthy sex life, enhance mood, increase self-confidence, and improve your outlook. I hope you are aware of all good or bad masturbation effects on the kidneys. However, if you're worried about doing it too much, consult a sex therapist for the best advice that will suit your body and your preferences.

Also Read: Does Masturbation Cause Weight Loss: What Science Says