Fertility
Does masturbation reduce sperm count?
Men trying for a baby often wonder if masturbation is hurting their chances. Masturbation does not cause long-term harm to sperm count, but timing can matter.
In short: Masturbation does not damage sperm production or cause infertility. Ejaculating very often temporarily lowers the number of sperm in each ejaculation, which recovers within a few days. For couples trying to conceive, ejaculating every one to two days, including sex around ovulation, is usually recommended. Very long abstinence can reduce sperm quality.
What masturbation does and does not do
- It does not damage the testicles or sperm production
- It does not cause infertility
- It temporarily lowers sperm count per ejaculation if done very often
Frequent ejaculation and count
Several ejaculations in a day lower the number of sperm released each time. Levels usually recover in two to five days.
Abstinence is not better
Going more than about a week without ejaculating can lower sperm motility and increase DNA damage. Short abstinence of two to five days tends to give the highest count with good quality.
Advice for couples trying to conceive
- Have sex every one to two days, especially in the fertile window
- Masturbation between those times is fine
- Avoid long gaps
- Support sperm health with a healthy lifestyle
Read how long does sperm take to regenerate.
Before a semen test
Follow the instructions you are given; usually two to five days of abstinence.
Real causes of low sperm count
- Heat, see does heat affect sperm
- Smoking and alcohol
- Varicocele
- Steroid use
- Excess weight
See what causes low sperm count in men.
Support
Our naturopaths support men with natural plans for sperm health and fertility.
Why men choose our natural approach
Walk in or consult remotely
Walk in at Buccleuch, Sandton, with parking available, or consult by phone or video from anywhere in South Africa.
Natural and non-surgical
Herbal remedies and practical guidance, with no injections or surgery.
Faster appointments
Enquiries answered 24/7, with same-day appointments often available.
Transparent pricing
Consultations are R2,500, with any remedy costs confirmed before you commit.
Private self-check: 5 quick questions
Answer these honestly before you try anything new or book. They help you describe what is happening and get more from your first consultation.
- Have you noticed a change in the amount, colour or consistency of your semen?
- Do you feel pain or burning during or after ejaculation?
- Have you had trouble ejaculating, or does it take much longer than before?
- Do you smoke, drink most days, or sit for long hours?
- Are you and your partner trying for a baby?
Pain, burning, blood in the semen or a sudden change should be checked by an appropriately registered medical professional first. For lifestyle-related changes, a naturopath can help you build a natural plan to support healthy function.
What happens at your first consultation
- Walk in or book online, call +27 10 205 9855 or WhatsApp +27 81 823 1313. In Gauteng, walk in at 199 Vanessa Street, Buccleuch, Sandton, where parking is available. Outside Gauteng, choose a confidential phone or video consultation. Enquiries are answered 24/7.
- Talk privately with a naturopath about your symptoms, health history, lifestyle and goals.
- Receive a personalised natural plan, with any remedy costs confirmed upfront.
- Follow up in person or remotely so your progress is reviewed and your plan adjusted.
Your health and safety
Our naturopaths use natural remedies and lifestyle support, and always check your health history and current medicines first. If anything needs medical attention we tell you honestly and refer you to an appropriately registered medical professional. Avoid unregistered “enhancement” products sold online or at markets, as SAHPRA has warned that some contain hidden ingredients.
Seek urgent medical care for chest pain, an erection lasting more than four hours, sudden weakness or other sudden symptoms.
Consultation price
A consultation is R2,500, in person or remote, and your naturopath confirms any further costs before you go ahead. See our mens clinic prices for details.
Frequently asked questions
Can masturbation cause infertility?
No. Masturbation does not damage sperm production or cause infertility.
Does masturbation lower sperm count?
Very frequent ejaculation lowers count per ejaculation temporarily, which recovers within days.
Should I stop masturbating when trying to conceive?
Not necessarily. Ejaculating every one to two days is usually recommended.
How long should I abstain before trying to conceive?
Two to five days tends to give a good balance of count and quality. Longer is not better.
How much does a consultation cost?
A consultation is R2,500, and any remedy costs are confirmed with you before you go ahead.
Book your consultation today
Walk in at our Sandton practice any time, day or night, or book ahead. Outside Gauteng? Book a remote consultation.
References and further reading
Reviewed by George Mulaudzi, Naturopath. This page is general information and does not replace a personal consultation. If you have chest pain, sudden symptoms or a medical emergency, seek urgent medical care.
