Masturbation or self-pleasure is the safest way to have sex. Masturbation carries no risk of pregnancy and no risk of catching or passing on STIs. It is also a great way to explore one’s preferences in bed as it allows for experimentation, discovery and fine-tuning of techniques. Masturbation is often the very first sexual experience people have, and it is a very common sex act that people of all ages enjoy regularly.
Both people with vaginas and people with penises masturbate to become aroused, release tension and satisfy sexual needs. Sometimes people also masturbate with or in front of their partners as part of foreplay or other sexual games and to arouse and tease each other. In this case, there is a very small risk of spreading STIs, if body fluids are passed between genitals on your fingers, hands or some other way. If you suspect that you may have an STI, it’s important that you visit your doctor or local sexual health clinic as soon as possible to get the right treatment.
Masturbation is a completely healthy and normal part of human sexuality and does not cause any physical or mental harm even when done regularly. Very frequent and vehement masturbation may lead to sore genitals, but this should resolve by taking a break. Masturbation with sexual aids like vibrators can increase overall sexual function and people with vaginas may experience increased vaginal lubrication, while people with penises may get better erectile function. Masturbation may decrease sexual sensitivity on the short term, but by changing the angle or technique of self-pleasuring, full sensitivity should return without any other intervention.
Health Benefits
Masturbation has many health benefits, including relaxation, stress-relief, better sleep, boost of mood and relief from muscle cramps. For people who get periods, masturbation and having an orgasm can help relieve menstrual pain. Some studies have also shown that regular ejaculation for people with prostates can potentially lower the risk of prostate cancer, therefore self-pleasure can help those who do not have partnered sex regularly.
Some people may feel guilty or ashamed during or immediately after masturbation due to personal, often belief-related reasons. Masturbation is completely natural and nothing to be ashamed of, but if guilt and shame is stopping you from enjoying a healthy, fulfilling sex life, you should consider asking for help from a qualified medical professional or therapist.
Masturbation Addiction
It is possible to develop an addiction to masturbation that can interfere with everyday life and social relationships. Skipping chores, cancelling social plans or missing everyday responsibilities like work or school in favour of masturbation, can all be signs that you may be spending too much time with self-pleasure. Just like most other addictions, being addicted to masturbation can lead to low productivity and may harm one’s career, friendships and romantic prospects. Your doctor, therapist or counsellor can help you get over your masturbation addiction.
Summary
In summary, masturbation is a healthy, normal and quite common method of self-care with multiple benefits both mentally and physically. It is also relatively risk-free and a safe way to explore one’s sexual preferences which can be extremely useful when engaging in any sexual activity with a partner.
