The findings are considered “hypothesis-generating”, meaning they raise important questions but are not definitive medical advice on their own.
Prostate cancer is very common.
Each year, there are around 20,000 new cases of prostate cancer diagnosed in Australia, and more than 300,000 new cases in the United States. With numbers like these, it’s natural for men to ask what they can do to reduce their risk.
One question that often generates curiosity — and sometimes surprise — is this:
Could frequent ejaculation reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer?
Let’s look at what the science tells us.
What Does the Research Say?
In 2016, a large and well-known study from Harvard University examined whether there was a relationship between ejaculation frequency and the later development of prostate cancer.
This was a long-term study involving over 30,000 men, followed for approximately two decades. Participants self-reported their ejaculation frequency, whether through:
Sexual activity
Masturbation
Nocturnal emissions (commonly known as “wet dreams”)
Researchers then compared these reports with prostate cancer diagnoses over time.
What Were the Key Findings?
The study found a correlation (not proof of cause) between higher ejaculation frequency and a lower risk of prostate cancer.
Specifically:
Men in their 20s, 30s, and 40s who ejaculated around 21 times per month
Had approximately a 20% lower risk of developing prostate cancer
Compared with men who ejaculated 4–7 times per month
These findings were consistent across different age groups.
Why Might This Be the Case?
The leading theory is that regular ejaculation may help flush out potentially harmful substances from the prostate.
In simple terms:
The prostate produces fluid that contributes to semen
Regular emptying of the prostate may reduce inflammation
It may help prevent the build-up of substances that could, over time, contribute to cancer development
However, it’s important to be very clear:
👉 This study does not prove that frequent ejaculation prevents prostate cancer.
👉 It shows an association, not a cause-and-effect relationship.
The findings are considered “hypothesis-generating”, meaning they raise important questions but are not definitive medical advice on their own.
DO YOU HAVE A QUESTION?
Dr Chabert will be hosting a Q&A on THURSDAY 26th February 7:30pm AEST on his YouTube channel, covering everything you need to know about prostate health, treatments, surgery, recovery & more!
Become a premium subscriber - Don’t miss your chance to be heard.
What This Does Not Mean
This research does not mean:
Ejaculation should be treated like a strict health target
Men should feel pressured to reach a certain “number per month”
Ejaculation alone is enough to prevent prostate cancer
Think of this information as one possible piece of a much larger health puzzle.
The Bigger Picture: Reducing Prostate Cancer Risk
While ejaculation frequency may play a role, the most important factors in prostate health include:
Regular physical activity, including strength training
Maintaining a healthy weight
Eating a balanced diet, low in processed foods
Limiting alcohol intake
Not smoking
Managing chronic inflammation and overall wellbeing
Just as importantly, genetics matter.
Know Your Family History
Your risk of prostate cancer is higher if you have:
A father or brother with prostate cancer
Multiple affected male relatives
A family history of breast cancer (particularly BRCA-related cancers)
If you have a family history:
In Australia, screening discussions should begin around age 40
For men without a family history, discussions usually start at age 50
The Most Important Step You Can Take
Regardless of lifestyle factors:
Know your PSA
Track it over time
Discuss any changes or concerns with your GP or urologist
Early detection remains one of the most effective ways to ensure excellent outcomes with prostate cancer.
In Summary
Prostate cancer is common, but often very treatable when caught early
Large studies suggest a link between higher ejaculation frequency and reduced prostate cancer risk
This is not a guarantee or a prescription, but an interesting and reassuring finding
Overall health, genetics, and regular medical screening matter most
If you have questions about prostate cancer risk, screening, or prostate health in general, we encourage you to speak with your GP or specialist.