The 10 Benefits of Masturbation
Masturbation is normal.Studies have even shown that masturbation has both positive physical and mental health benefits. There are few (if any) negative side effects in comparison with the overwhelming health benefits of a good orgasm. Men and women of all ages participate in solo pleasure and it’s important if you want healthy sexual development - plus, it’s fun!
A 2019 survey found that 84% of Americans masturbate. And whilst women do tend to masturbate less than men, and older people less than young, the majority of us are certainly taking advantage of the health benefits of masturbation.
Negative side effects of masturbation.
Some people believe masturbation damages your genitals, makes you a masturbation addict or makes you infertile. But this isn’t true! There can be negative side effects, but there are very few. It is always possible, however, to have too much of a good thing.
Because masturbation feels good (like, really good), it is possible to become addicted to it and to masturbate too much. This can lead to aggressive masturbation habits. And these habits can lead to chafing or light swelling, commonly known as edema. Another negative side effect of aggressive masturbation habits that both men and women can experience is decreased sensation.
People can resolve this over time with a change of technique. Or by introducing a vibrator to their next solo pleasure session. Nonetheless, there are far more health benefits of masturbation than negative effects.
10 Health Benefits of Masturbation.
Few studies have been conducted on the benefits of masturbation. However, what research there is suggests that sexual stimulation through masturbation is definitely good for us. Besides its obvious benefit (orgasm!), it is good for your physical and mental well-being.
Read on for the specifics: here is a list of 10 health benefits of masturbation that will help motivate your next solo pleasure session.
#1 Stress Relief.
We can all relate to having a stressful day. The feel-good endorphins released as and after you orgasm (similar to those you get when exercising or eating chocolate) can greatly relieve some of the pent-up stress you accumulate over the day.
#2 Tension Relief.
Similar to stress, tension can build up within the body. Work, sport, or just our daily routines can take their toll on our bodies, sometimes making us seize up. Use nature’s way of releasing some of that tension to help get the knots out of your back.
#3 Enhanced sleep quality.
Why do we all feel super relaxed after an orgasm? Because an orgasm releases hormones like oxytocin and prolactin which make you sleepy. Use this to your advantage to not only help you fall asleep faster but ensure you get a good night’s rest. A stressful day only makes falling asleep that much more difficult. Take care of two problems by masturbating before bed.
#4 Boosted concentration.
This is one of the more surprising benefits of your one-on-one time. Men are probably more familiar with the term “post-nut clarity” than women. Sexual frustration can hinder a person’s day to day focus. If you can’t take your mind off sex, then take a break to help get rid of some of that frustration. Sometimes it takes an orgasm to help get back on track. Your clear mind will thank you.
#5 Enhanced mood.
It’s difficult to be in a bad mood after an orgasm. After climaxing, endorphins rush around your brain and body. One of these is dopamine, which is associated with pleasure and proven to boost your mood.
#6 Relief of menstrual cramps.
One of the best health benefits of masturbation for women is the relieving of menstrual cramps. This benefit coincides with the release of endorphins which acts as a pain reliever (no more ibuprofen!), and enhances your mood.
If cramps become unbearable, consider some alone time to help ease some of the pain. And if you’re worried about making a mess, that’s what vibrators and clit stimulation is for!
#7 Pain Relief.
Continuing with pain alleviation, both men and women can benefit from the soothing effect masturbation has on physical pain and achy bodies. However, if you have serious injuries, you might want to avoid self-pleasure. Your body is working to heal itself, and masturbation may add unnecessary strain.
#8 Improved sex life.
There are multiple ways in which masturbation can improve your sex life. First off, it allows you to explore your body and sexuality. This means you can find out your turn ons, hot spots and what makes you climax. You can then use this knowledge to guide your partner, and make sex better for both of you.
Another way to enjoy masturbation is by doing it with a partner. You can learn about each other’s body and what you enjoy, and it’s a sexy experience to share... One helpful tip for men is to masturbate in order to last longer in bed. If a man knows sex is a guarantee in the future, he should masturbate beforehand so he will have to work more for an orgasm during sex.
#9 You can Explore your Fantasies.
Masturbation allows you to figure out what gets you off mentally as well as physically. Learn more about yourself by exploring your imagination. Having some alone time with just you and your deepest desires will improve your sex life with a partner, because you can share and talk about your fantasies. But first, you have to know what you’re really into. If you get off at certain thoughts, then you know which ones you might want to share. Whether you’re into Bondage, role-playing, or panties, there are plenty of ideas you can experiment with.
#10 You stay STDs free.
One of the best sexual health benefits of masturbating is preventing STDs. You can’t catch one if you’re alone. And there’s no chance of getting pregnant, either!
There are many health benefits of masturbation that should comfort you the next time you’re sneaking off to your bedroom for a solo session. Never feel ashamed or guilty - even if you are in a relationship.
Masturbation can be a fun addition to a relationship, especially a long-distance one. Telling your partner you’re thinking about them while touching yourself is sure to spark up your sex life, and boost your partner’s ego.
Masturbation is a completely normal thing that many people frequently, albeit secretly, do. Considering it has so many benefits, why don’t we do it and talk about it more?
Always remember: love yourself first.
