Why Masturbation is Healthy and Important

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Although topics like masturbation may feel uncomfortable or controversial for some individuals, it is an important topic to address in the realm of sex therapy. Masturbation is the act of stimulating sensitive body parts for pleasure using your fingers, hands, toys, or other objects. It is a completely normal and healthy way to explore your body, induce pleasure, and learn more about your desires and needs.

According to research, 95% of men and 78% of women under 30 participate. Although the prevalence decreases with age, it is still relatively common, with 57% of males and 41% of females aged 70-79 years old engaging in masturbation.

There are many ways that people masturbate. You may rub or massage your genitals. You may prefer using toys or other objects. You may also prefer touching other erogenous body parts. You may set up the room with candles to set the mood and relieve tension. There is no wrong way to masturbate. Everyone has different preferences, and that’s completely normal!

Benefits of Masturbation:

Masturbation is not just an act to induce sexual pleasure. Rather, there are many documented physical and mental health benefits that come along with it, like reduced stress, relieved tension, improved sleep, increased focus, and more: 

• Increases pelvic floor strength
• The pelvic floor includes muscles that work together to support the pelvic organs, like the vagina, uterus, bladder, and bowels. Weak pelvic floor muscles can cause these organs to fall out of place. Masturbation can’t heal a weak pelvic floor, but it can help prevent weakness.
• Helps alleviate aches and pains
• When you masturbate and have an orgasm, your body releases dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin, which are feel-good hormones and neurotransmitters. These won’t heal an injury or intense pain, but can help lower your pain sensitivity. Additionally, if you are a woman and on your period, the natural chemicals that get released during pleasure can help with painful cramps. 
• Makes you feel happier
• Masturbation as a whole activates the hypothalamus and thalamus, parts of the brain responsible for pleasure. It also decreases activity in the lateral orbitofrontal cortex, parts of the brain responsible for fear and anxiety. Dopamine and oxytocin are also released, which are linked to better mood regulation and happiness.
• Increases libido
• If you struggle with your libido, masturbation might help. As humans, we want to do things that make us feel good because of the surge of chemicals in our brain and body. Masturbation can make you want more sex. Actually, if you struggle with a low sex drive, this is a common treatment plan used by many sex therapists!
• Feels like a workout
• Masturbation often involves a lot of moving, heavy breathing, and increased heart rate. This causes you to lose a decent number of calories. However, this should not be your only form of movement and exercise.

One of the most important benefits of masturbation involves increased self-confidence. This is a great way to learn more about your body, what you like, and how you like it. It is essential for developing self-awareness and self-acceptance. The more comfortable and aware you feel about your body, the more confident you feel about sex in general. Here is a helpful reference for sexual and personal empowerment revolving around orgasms, masturbation, and sex that might aid you in your self-exploration journey. This confidence has been observed to extend beyond the bedroom as well. It is a form of empowerment that, regardless of your gender, can help you feel better about yourself.

Myths About Masturbation:

There are many myths about masturbation, such as blindness, impotence later in life, erectile dysfunction, penis shrinkage/curvature, infertility, and mental illness. There is no evidence to prove that masturbation is related to any of these things. However, there are a few side effects to keep in mind:

• Chafing/tender skin
• If you are too rough while masturbating, your skin may feel raw and tender. This is typically temporary, so there is nothing to worry about unless it develops into something more painful.
• Decreased sexual sensitivity
• If you have a penis and hold it too tightly for too long, it may result in decreased sensations. Additionally, using a vibrator for all genders for too long can result in the same thing. This is very much reversible by changing your technique or not using vibrators for too long at a time.
• Disrupting daily life
• Masturbating often is not a bad thing. However, it might become a problem when it comes in the way of normal functioning. You might stop going to work, fall behind on daily activities, ignore important relationships, or use it as an escape from real life. If you find yourself isolated from the world, it might be a sign to see a healthcare provider or a sex therapist.

Final Thoughts:

Masturbation is a completely normal aspect of life. It has many health benefits, both physical and mental. However, some people may feel embarrassed or guilty about masturbation. They might worry that it conflicts with their religious, spiritual, or cultural beliefs. It is important to remember that self-love is not shameful. It is not wrong or immoral. It might help to discuss your feelings with a friend or therapist who can help you with these feelings.

To discuss how therapy could help you during this season of your life, please contact me or schedule your free 15-minute consultation.

References:

Cleveland Clinic. (2022, October 25). Masturbation: Facts & benefits. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24332-masturbation 

Kassel, G. (2023, March 22). 17 Benefits of masturbation that show masturbating is good for you. Mindbodygreen. https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/benefits-of-masturbation 

Nichols, H. (2020, January 23). Masturbation side effects: Myths and facts. Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320265#health-benefits-of-masturbation 

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