Frequent sex: Does it protect against prostate cancer?

Is there any research to support the theory that frequent ejaculation or sex reduces the risk of prostate cancer?

- Richard / Oregon

Mayo Clinic urologist Erik Castle, M.D., and colleagues answer select questions from readers.

Answer

The incidence and risk of prostate cancer has been looked at in many populations, including men who have had vasectomies and those who may or may not be sexually active. Epidemiologic studies have suggested that men with a higher frequency of ejaculations may have a slightly lower risk of prostate cancer. However, this difference appears to be very small and is very difficult to accurately study.

At this time, there is no conclusive evidence to suggest that frequent ejaculation reduces the risk of prostate cancer.