The return of ‘No Nut November’ has stirred up discussions on social media about its safety, benefits, and legitimacy.
This popular challenge encourages individuals to refrain from ejaculating throughout November, with proponents asserting it enhances testosterone levels, focus, confidence, and even hair growth. However, experts express skepticism.
The concept made its debut on Urban Dictionary in 2011 before gaining traction on Reddit and Twitter in 2017. Although it has become a meme, the practice of semen retention has historical roots.
In ancient traditions like Taoism and tantric practices, abstinence is believed to boost energy and mental clarity. Despite the online buzz, scientific evidence is lacking.
Enthusiasts suggest No Nut November aids in muscle growth, stamina, anxiety, and concentration, while others claim it improves sperm quality and libido. Nonetheless, research supporting these claims is scarce.
One study from 2003 noted a minimal, temporary increase in testosterone after three weeks of abstinence, while a 2018 review indicated that sperm health might benefit more from regular ejaculation.
While some participants report feeling more focused or disciplined, experts suggest these effects may be more psychological than hormonal.
Dr. Alexis Missick, an erectile dysfunction specialist, told The Daily Star: “Masturbation actually has beneficial effects on testosterone levels and libido, almost like a positive advocate loop.”
She continued: “Masturbating can help delay ejaculation, building stamina. Conversely, abstaining could exacerbate premature ejaculation and indirectly lead to erectile dysfunction.”
Urologist Dr. Rena Malik provided insights on YouTube, stating that masturbation leads to ‘better sleep, decreased heart rate, decreased stress, and an increase in feel-good hormones’.
However, she cautioned that complete abstinence might result in pelvic discomfort or ‘blue balls’, a common experience for participants adjusting to the challenge.
On TikTok, Dr. Karan Rajan explained: “Wet dreams or nocturnal emissions aren’t always about sexual arousal. Nocturnal emissions are a way for the body to clear out sperm.
“Your sperm has an expiration date, so if you haven’t fired your gooey cannon in a while, your body gets rid of the old stuff while you sleep.”
He added: “If your body didn’t reabsorb sperm your dingleberries would swell up.”
Is No Nut November harmful? Not particularly. However, it shouldn’t be seen as a miracle remedy. If you’re participating for enjoyment or focus, that’s fine—just don’t anticipate extraordinary results or spiritual enlightenment.