Explore the impact of masturbation on blood pressure. Learn about the physiological effects and potential risks, as well as strategies for managing blood pressure.

Quick Summary
- Masturbation has been found to have a temporary increase in blood pressure during the act, but it does not have a long-term effect on overall blood pressure.
- Studies have shown that masturbation can have a positive effect on cardiovascular health by reducing stress and tension.
- There is no evidence to suggest that masturbation is harmful to blood pressure or cardiovascular health.
- Individuals with pre-existing hypertension should consult a healthcare professional before engaging in any activity that may temporarily raise their blood pressure.
Masturbation, also known as self-stimulation or self-pleasure, is a common and normal sexual behaviour. However, there is still a significant amount of taboo and misinformation surrounding this topic. One area of concern is the potential impact of masturbation on blood pressure.
It’s vital to understand how masturbation can affect blood pressure, especially in people who already have high blood pressure or heart problems.
In this article, we will explore the relationship between masturbation and blood pressure, including any potential short-term and long-term effects.
Does Masturbation Increase Blood Pressure?
Yes, any sexual activity, including masturbation, can raise pressure in your arteries.
The increase in blood pressure that may occur during masturbation is thought to be caused by the release of hormones such as endorphins and adrenaline. These lead to a temporary spike in blood pressure.
However, this effect is short-lived, and blood pressure usually returns to normal soon after masturbation.
Masturbation Does Not Cause High Blood Pressure
Clearly, masturbation does not cause hypertension or high blood pressure. As discussed earlier, it may temporarily elevate blood pressure; however, it is important to note that this rise does not result in hypertension on its own.
There are several different factors responsible for the condition, including genetics.
Can You Masturbate If You Have Hypertension
Individuals with hypertension, or high blood pressure, can engage in masturbation, just like anyone else. However, any activity that raises heart beat rate, including masturbation, may cause elevation in blood pressure.
These spikes may be more pronounced in people with hypertension. Therefore, it is always recommended that individuals with pre-existing hypertension or any other health condition must consult a healthcare professional before engaging in any activity such as masturbation.
A practitioner will also advise you on how to monitor your blood pressure, and if there are any precautions you should take. But, if the blood pressure is well-controlled, masturbation does not pose any additional risks or concerns, even for those with pre-existing health conditions.
What Happens When You Masturbate?
During masturbation, the body’s physiological response increases heart rate and blood pressure as the individual approaches orgasm. Soon after you reach this peak, it starts descending.
One must understand that sexual arousal is a complicated process that involves changes to the nervous, circulatory, and endocrine systems. It has four distinct phases.
- Excitement phase: Heart rate increases and blood pressure begins to rise, accompanied by other changes such as faster breathing, increased blood flow to the genitals, and heightened muscle tension.
- Plateau phase: These physiological changes continue to escalate until reaching the peak of orgasm.
- Orgasm: This stage records highest heart rate and blood pressure, as well as involuntary muscle contractions.
- Resolution phase: The body swiftly returns to its pre-arousal state.
Note
According to a study, it is unlikely that masturbation would cause an increase in heart rate above 130 beats per minute or a rise in systolic blood pressure above 170 mm Hg in individuals with normal blood pressure before the activity.
What Happens If You Have Uncontrolled Hypertension?
If you have uncontrolled hypertension, it puts you at a higher risk for potential health complications. This means that it is essential to be cautious when engaging in activities that may cause an increase in blood pressure.
Studies have shown that the release of hormones during ejaculation can lead to higher blood pressure, which can potentially cause a heart attack or stroke for those already at high risk due to hypertension.
What To Do If You Have High Blood Pressure? And Want To Masturbate.
It’s essential for hypertension patients to monitor blood pressure and consult their doctor and undergo any necessary diagnostic tests. This will provide a clear understanding of the individual’s condition and related risks.
The healthcare professional will also be able to advise on the safety of engaging in activities that may bring fluctuation in their blood pressure.
Individuals at high risk for complications should prioritize managing and treating their high blood pressure and any associated cardiac disorders, such as atherosclerosis, before engaging in these activities.
Is It Normal To Have High Blood Pressure And Not Want To Masturbate?
Hypertension can have an impact on sexual function. The damage to the inner walls of the blood vessels, caused by hypertension, can impede the blood flow to the genital region, leading to difficulty in achieving arousal.
Hypertension can also impact one’s libido; it can cause a drop in sex drive which can lead to less interest in sexual activities like masturbation.
In men, hypertension can have an impact on sexual function by reducing blood flow to the penis. This can make it challenging to achieve or maintain an erection during masturbation or sexual intercourse and can lead to erectile dysfunction.
While masturbation may still be possible, it may not be as successful as desired. To better blood flow to the pelvic region and penis, control hypertension synmptoms through lifestyle changes and medication.
In some cases, natural blood pressure supplements may prove useful but one must talk to a doctor before taking them.
Conclusion
Masturbation is a safe activity, and it does not increase blood pressure. Though it may bring a slight rise, this increase is normal and returns to normal soon after.
However, for Individuals with pre-existing hypertension it may be a matter of concern. So this group should maintain healthy blood pressure through lifestyle modifications and supplements as prescribed by their healthcare professional.
References
Banerjea BK, Sen SC. Electrocardiographic study of the effect of masturbation normal individuals. Indian J Physiol Pharmacol. 1976 Oct-Dec;20(4):226-30. PMID: 1010639.
Capri G. FOY, Ph.D., M.S., et.al., “Blood pressure, sexual activity and erectile function in hypertensive men: baseline findings from the Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial (SPRINT)” J Sex Med. 2019 Feb;16(2):235-247. doi: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2018.12.007. Epub 2019 Jan 14. PMID: 30655182; PMCID: PMC6444897.
Exton MS, Bindert A, et.al., Cardiovascular and endocrine alterations after masturbation-induced orgasm in women. Psychosom Med. 1999 May-Jun;61(3):280-9. doi: 10.1097/00006842-199905000-00005. PMID: 10367606.