does masturbation stop height - #24281
I am really curious about something that's been on my mind a lot lately. I'm 17, still in high school and trying to figure out how everything works, you know? I've heard some people say that does masturbation stop height growth, and it’s kinda been bugging me. Like, I’m already on the shorter side compared to my friends, and I definitely don’t want to jeopardize any chance of growing taller. I mean, it just seems like a weird thing to me, right? I tried looking it up, and honestly, the info I found is all over the place. One page says that it can affect hormones and growth plates, but then another source says it doesn’t have any effect at all. It’s so confusing! I’ve been kinda cautious lately, thinking maybe I should just lay off to be safe. But sometimes, the urge is just there, and I feel like I need to take care of that too. Do any of you doctors think that this whole does masturbation stop height thing is backed by science or is it just a myth? I really want to hear what the professional opinion is on this, cause it’s kinda important to me.
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Doctors' responses
Masturbation does not affect height growth. There’s no scientific evidence to support the idea that masturbation can interfere with your height or growth plates. Height is primarily determined by genetics and, to some extent, nutrition and general health. During adolescence, different hormones come into play, supporting growth and development, and while testosterone is involved in both sexual activity and growth, the activities related to masturbation don’t have a significant impact on your body’s ability to grow tall. In fact, it’s quite normal and a part of human sexuality. You mentioned being shorter than your friends—it’s important to remember that growth rates vary greatly among individuals, and many people continue to grow into their late teens. If you’re concerned about your height or growth, focusing on other aspects might be more beneficial. Ensure you have a balanced diet rich in nutrients that support growth, like calcium and vitamin D, and ensure you are getting enough sleep, as growth hormone is mostly secreted during sleep. Regular physical activity can also promote bone and muscle strength, further supporting healthy growth. If you continue to have concerns about your height and related growth, it may be worthwhile to speak to a healthcare professional who can assess your growth patterns and general health comprehensively.
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