Does Masturbation Cause Testicular Cancer?

Table of Content

• Introduction

• What is Testicular Cancer?

• What are the Symptoms of Testicular Cancer?

• What are the Causes of Testicular Cancer?

• Does Masturbation Cause Testicular Cancer?

• Myths and Facts Related to Masturbation and Cancer

• Testicular Cancer Treatments

• Side Effects of Masturbation Daily

• Take-Home Points

• FAQs

Introduction

Male masturbation is a common practice that is natural and has been in practice for many centuries globally. Being a common practice in India and many countries around the world, lots of such cases are surrounded by myths and misconceptions that researchers have never debunked.

In this blog, we are going to look into the facts and myths that surround this practice, their adverse effects, consequences, and more. Read on to get the best exposure.

What is Testicular Cancer?

Testicular cancer refers to a type of cancer that occurs in the testicles, which form a part of the male reproductive system. The main function of testicles is to produce testosterone hormone and sperms. Testicular cancer happens when abnormal cells in the testicles grow without control and form a tumor. Though rare, testicular cancer is one of the most common types of cancer that affect young males between the ages of 15 and 35 years. The good news is that it is easily treatable and its survival rate is high.

What are the Symptoms of Testicular Cancer?

Finding out the symptoms associated with testicular cancer is very important for early detection and treatment purposes. Some of the most common symptoms of testicular cancer include:

• A swelling or a lump that occurs in one of the testicles. This is often painless.

• A feeling of a hanging weight in your scrotum

• A mild or dull pain in the groin region

• An abrupt accumulation of fluid in the scrotum

• Pain or discomfort in the groin or scrotum

• The breast tissues may become tender or enlarged

• Back pain if the cancer extends to the lymph nodes 

It is important to carry out self diagnosis on a regular basis and seek immediate medical intervention in the event you note any of the symptoms we have listed above.

What are the Causes of Testicular Cancer?

There is no evidence to support the exact cause or causes of testicular cancer. However, there are certain risk factors that can put you at a higher risk of developing testicular cancer. These include:

• Family history: If you have a close family member with testicular cancer, you are also vulnerable to the condition.

• Cryptorchidism: This is a condition whereby a man has an undescended testicle.

• History of testicular cancer: If you had a previous case of testicular cancer, chances of reoccurring are high.

• Congenital health conditions: Certain illnesses associated with the male reproductive system such as Klinefelter syndrome can put you at a higher risk of testicular cancer.

• Ethnicity: According to studies, white men are at a higher risk of testicular cancer than their male counterparts from other races.

• Age: Male aged between 15 and 35 years of age are more vulnerable to testicular cancer.

Does Masturbation Cause Testicular Cancer?

There is no scientific evidence to demonstrate a relationship between masturbation and testicular cancer or any other type of cancer. According to researchers, masturbation is a normal and healthy sexual activity and does not make a man vulnerable to testicular cancer. Masturbation is considered as a natural way through which males explore their bodies and understand their responses to sexual activities.

Myths and Facts Related to Masturbation and Cancer

There are numerous myths that surround masturbation and its effects on a person’s overall wellbeing. Let us take a look at some of the myths and the facts to debunk them:

Myth: Masturbation can lead to impotence, hairy arms and blindness.

Fact: There is no scientific evidence to support these claims. Masturbation is considered to be safe and forms a part of sexual development without causing any adverse side effects.

Myth: Masturbation can cause physical weakness and mental illnesses.

Fact: No single research has ever shown an association between masturbation and mental health or physical weakness. In fact, most people who masturbate are physically active and healthy. 

Myth: Masturbating frequently can lead to infertility.

Fact: Masturbating frequently does not in any way lead to infertility. However, if you masturbate excessively when you are attempting to conceive, it may temporarily lower the chances of conception to a reduction in sperm count. This cannot lead to long-term fertility challenges in men. 

Given that you now know these facts, you are distant from the misconceptions and you are now in a better position to change your attitudes towards your sexual activities and experiences.   

Testicular Cancer Treatments

The treatment options of testicular cancer depend on two factors. These include the stage of development and the type of cancer. Some of the most common treatment options of testicular cancer include:

Surgery

• Inguinal Orchiectomy: This is a surgical process through which the affected testicle is removed.

• Retroperitoneal Lymph Node Dissection (RPLND): This involves the removal of lymph nodes in the abdomen.

Radiation Therapy

• This method involves the use of high-energy rays to target and eliminate the cancer cells.

Chemotherapy

• Chemotherapy involves the use of medications such as Carboplatin, Cisplatin, Vinblastine, Paclitaxel, and Bleomycin to kill and eliminate the rapidly growing cancer cells.

Hormone Therapy

• This is a therapeutic treatment that helps to regulate body processes and stabilize the activity of the reproductive organs.

Surveillance

• It involves monitoring with regular exams and imaging tests for early-stage cancers in the male reproductive organs.

Other Treatments

• Targeted Therapy: Involves drugs that target specific cancer cells.

• Immunotherapy: Helps the immune system in the fight against cancer.

It's important to consult with a specialist to find out the best treatment plan based on your personal situation and preferences.

Side Effects of Masturbation Daily

Masturbation has never been associated with any adverse side effects. Nevertheless, some people experience feelings of guilt as a result of long-term or chronic masturbation.

The guilt that comes with chronic masturbation has some link to do with spiritual, cultural, or religious beliefs.

Most egocentric people consider masturbation as evil, immoral, and illegal form of sexual gratification. It is assumed to be a dirty and shameful act of satisfying a man’s desire for sexual satisfaction.

If masturbating becomes a major concern in your life, it is important to consult a trusted person who can assist you on the way to drop the habit and erase the feelings of guilt. There are experts and therapists in sexual health who can help you overcome any guilt associated with masturbation and sexual health.

Take-Home Points

• Testicular cancer originates in the testicles, part of the male reproductive system. It is most prevalent in young men aged 15 to 35 but is highly treatable, particularly when detected early.

• Factors such as undescended testicles, family history, and personal history can elevate the risk.

• Male masturbation, on the other hand, is a normal and healthy sexual activity. There is no scientific evidence linking masturbation to testicular cancer. In fact, masturbation has several health benefits, including stress relief and improved sleep.

• It's crucial to distinguish myths from facts to make well-informed health decisions.