Is It Healthy to Stop Masturbating?
Written by Muneeb Rana · Medically reviewed by Safi Allah Khan · Last updated 24 October 2026
Quick answer: Is it healthy to stop masturbating? For most people, yes: stopping is not harmful, and neither is masturbating in moderation. Masturbation is a normal sexual behaviour. People choose to stop for personal, relationship or faith reasons, or because it feels compulsive. Wet dreams may become more frequent, which is normal.
Is it healthy to stop masturbating? What medical sources say
Masturbation is a common, normal sexual behaviour and isn't harmful in itself. Abstaining is also not known to be harmful. The medical concern is when sexual behaviour becomes compulsive and causes distress or harm, described in ICD-11 as compulsive sexual behaviour disorder (WHO; Mayo Clinic).
Why people take a break
Common reasons: feeling it's compulsive, wanting to quit porn (the two are often linked), wanting more energy for a relationship, faith or values, or simply a personal challenge like No Nut November.
Myths on both sides
Myths that stopping will give you huge testosterone gains or 'superpowers' aren't supported (testosterone facts). Equally, claims that stopping is dangerous or causes 'blue balls' damage aren't supported; temporary discomfort can happen but passes. Semen retention claims are covered in semen retention: claims vs evidence.
Wet dreams and other changes
If you stop, nocturnal emissions (wet dreams) may happen more often. They're involuntary and normal; see wet dreams during NoFap. Some people notice more frequent arousal or restlessness at first.
When to talk to a doctor
See a doctor for pain, blood in semen, erection or ejaculation problems, or if guilt and anxiety about masturbation are affecting your life. For problems with erections, see the NHS guidance. Don't let shame stop you from asking.
Listening to your body
Whatever you decide, pay attention to how you feel rather than chasing claims online. Occasional wet dreams, changes in mood or a stronger libido in the first weeks are common and not a sign of harm. Pain, discharge, or worry that won't settle are reasons to speak to a GP or sexual health clinic.
Related: How to Stop Masturbating · Is NoFap Healthy? · NoFap · NoFap Benefits
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Sources
- WHO ICD-11: 6C72 Compulsive sexual behaviour disorder: icd.who.int (accessed 24 October 2026)
- Mayo Clinic: Compulsive sexual behavior: mayoclinic.org (accessed 24 October 2026)
- Jiang et al. (2003), Ejaculation and serum testosterone level in men, J Zhejiang Univ Sci: pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov (accessed 24 October 2026)
- NHS: Erection problems (erectile dysfunction): nhs.uk (accessed 24 October 2026)
FAQ
Is it bad to stop masturbating?
No. Stopping is generally safe for physical health.
What happens if you stop masturbating for a month?
Many people notice more wet dreams and urges at first. Health effects are generally neutral.
Does stopping masturbation increase testosterone?
One small study found a short-lived peak around day 7, then a return to baseline. There's no evidence of lasting increases.
Can stopping masturbation cause problems?
Not usually. Temporary discomfort or restlessness can happen and passes.
How do I stop masturbating?
See our step-by-step guide on how to stop masturbating, and track your streak with the streak calculator.