“"Long-term abstinence shrinks the penis—doctors have proven that abstaining from sex can affect your health." This news appeared in a Telegram community with millions of members.
The post appeared on “Topor.” Watch
The authors write that a month without sex increases stress and anxiety, which can lead to depression.
A Year Without Intimacy – a loss of interest in sex and the ability to experience pleasure.
Five years or more – The genitals shrink.
The authors also note that the main risk of prolonged abstinence is that it increases the risk of developing prostate cancer.
News of this kind may seem sensational and provocative, but its credibility is highly questionable. Let's break it down point by point, based on scientific research and medical evidence.
“A Month Without Sex—Stress and Anxiety Levels Rise”
Sex and intimacy can indeed help reduce stress through the release of hormones such as oxytocin and endorphins. However, the claim that abstinence definitively causes depression or increases anxiety is not supported by medical evidence. Stress levels depend on a variety of factors, including one’s overall physical and psychological well-being, and not just on sex.
“A year without intimacy—you lose interest in sex and the ability to enjoy it”
This is partially true, but it varies from person to person. Some people may experience a decrease in libido (interest in sex) after prolonged abstinence, but this does not mean that their ability to experience pleasure will disappear forever. Usually, libido and sexual activity can return once intimate relationships or sexual contact resume.
“Five years or more—the genitals begin to shrink”
This claim is a myth. There is no reliable scientific evidence or research showing that prolonged abstinence causes the penis to shrink. Penis size does not depend on sexual activity.
“Long-term abstinence increases the risk of prostate cancer”
Studies show that regular ejaculations (whether through sexual intercourse or masturbation) may reduce the risk of prostate cancer in men. However, abstinence itself is not a direct cause of cancer; the link is statistical rather than causal.
“Regular sexual activity improves brain function and reduces the risk of serious diseases”
Yes, in certain respects, this is supported by science. Sex promotes the release of hormones that are beneficial to the body and improves blood circulation. But these effects can also be achieved through physical activity and other healthy habits.
Most of the information shared in Russia’s multi-million-member Telegram community is not based on scientific data and constitutes sensationalist interpretation. Regular sex is good for your health, but not having it won't lead to catastrophic consequences.
0 comments
Enter your email and we will send you a one-time code. No passwords or accounts.
Code sent to
If the email doesn't appear in your inbox within a few minutes, check your spam, junk, or promotions folder, as some email services may mistakenly place automated messages there