While it is true that semen is high in protein — with approximately 5.04 grams (g) of protein per 100 millilitres (mL) of semen — each ejaculation contains just 3.3 to 3.7mL of semen, which is a comparatively small amount.

Another theory is that masturbation increases testosterone, which in turn increases the levels of a hormone linked to hair loss, called DHT (dihydrotestosterone).

However, a study from 2001 showed that adult males actually had an increase in testosterone levels after abstaining from masturbation for 3 weeks. This means that testosterone levels might actually rise if a person avoids ejaculating.

In either case, there is no evidence to suggest that masturbation increases DHT levels.

Many myths exist about masturbation, but modern science has not proven it as the cause of any specific physical ailments.

Alongside hair loss, there is no evidence that masturbation will:

• cause hair to grow on the palms of the hands
• lead to blindness
• do permanent damage to the genitals
• cause impotence in men and infertility in women

Many people find masturbation difficult to talk about, which means that myths about masturbation can be very persistent.

Androgenetic alopecia or pattern baldness is a genetic disorder and is the most common cause of hair loss.

An individual with androgenetic alopecia has a genetic sensitivity to DHT. When exposed to DHT, the hair follicles shrink, which prevents them from generating strong, healthy hair.

According to the American Hair Loss Organization, male pattern baldness (MPB) causes over 95 per cent of hair loss in men and may affect 85 per cent of men by the time they are 50.

Although women have lower levels of testosterone than men, androgenetic alopecia can also affect females. According to the British Association of Dermatologists, about 50 per cent of women over the age of 65 will experience androgenetic alopecia.

Alopecia areata

This form of alopecia typically results in bald patches developing on the head or elsewhere. The hairless areas may stay contained and hair may re-grow, or the hair loss can spread to include the entire scalp, facial area, and body.

Alopecia areata is considered to be an autoimmune condition. It can affect men, women, or children. This condition affects about 2 per cent of people. For about 30 per cent of people with this condition, hair loss is recurring or can become permanent.

Chemotherapy

While chemotherapy typically focuses on cancer cells, some of the cancer-fighting compounds in chemotherapy drugs can cause as much as 90 per cent of a person’s hair to fall out. This hair loss is temporary, and the hair should regrow following treatment.

Major bodily stress

Major stress to the body, such as childbirth, serious infection, or malnutrition, can result in a significant loss of hair.

This form of hair loss usually resolves on its own, but it may also be persistent.

Traction alopecia

This form of alopecia occurs when the hair is pulled too tightly for a long time, resulting in damage to the hair follicles.

Traction alopecia occurs when a person wears cornrows, extensions, tight braids, or ponytails for an extended period.

In its early stages, this hair loss is temporary. However, if a person continues to wear the same hairstyle for months or years, the hair loss can become permanent.

Medication

Some medications, including birth control pills and certain antidepressants, can cause hair loss as a side effect. Masturbation is a common activity that will not affect a person’s health or lead to hair loss.

Anyone who wants to talk about the benefits or problems associated with masturbation should speak to their doctor or a sex therapist. Likewise, anyone worried about hair loss should discuss it with a healthcare professional.