Reader's Question

Dear Doc,
Will it ever be okay for me to masturbate, just to release the semen that builds up over time? I don't ever have wet dreams, possibly cause I only just got free in September. I'm mainly concerned about any health concerns related to not having that release mechanism.

Doc's Answer

Your body – specifically the prostate and seminal vesicles that produce semen – is well able to regulate semen production. Feedback mechanisms exist, production is not at a steady state 24/7, and you are at no real risk of an impending internal rupture. You might find that nocturnal emissions (wet dreams) occur now and then with time. In any case, masturbation is not required for your body’s health and well being, even where semen is concerned.