Everything you ever wanted to know about masturbation

Even in the present time, masturbation is still shrouded in a lot of taboo and shame, yet despite all of that, it is a practice that most people will at least try out during their life, if not engage in it regularly. This stigmatized image, however, has led to a lot of misconceptions and prejudices surrounding self pleasure, preventing many from exploring masturbation altogether. Hopefully, this article with aid you in untangling these predispositions, and will allow you to delve into the vast world of solo sex without any inhibitions.

What is and (isn’t) masturbation?

Masturbation is an act of inducing sexual pleasure in oneself, often through the touching of one’s genitals. Many of us might have discovered masturbation by accident in early years of our lives, realizing that our genitals were capable of much more than just providing relief in the bathroom. However, just like in other types of sex, genitals might, but also might not be, at the center stage during masturbating, as pleasure can also be elicited by stimulation of other erogenous zones.

When our bodies display signs of arousal, be it erected body parts or discharge of fluids, it does not really mean that we are masturbating – often, our bodies can be physically turned on involuntarily. The act of enticing and further stimulating the sweet spots is key here.

What happens to our body and mind when we masturbate?

Compared to research about partnered sex, there are way less scientific studies and findings about masturbation, often chalked up to the general stigmatization of this intimate practice. However, the existing research (1) shows that thanks to masturbation, feel-good hormones, more specifically dopamine, endorphins, oxytocin, and testosterone, are released. Scientists, Barry Komisaruk and Nan Wise, also suggest that masturbation, and having orgasms in general, allows the brain to receive more oxygen, which is crucial for its healthy functioning. (2) A 2004 study discovered higher white blood cell count in studied penis owners after a masturbation-induced orgasm.

Benefits of masturbation

Hormone release: As already noted, masturbation releases many hormones into our body. These can in turn serve as stress relief, lower tension, help with sleep, soothe pain (including period cramps), improve concentration, and generally boost mood.

Exploration of your body: Masturbation is a great way to get to know your body and figure out what you like. Knowing exactly what makes you go weak in the knees then can lead to improved partnered sex, as well as rise of your own self esteem and general body confidence.

Reconnection with yourself after assault: Masturbation is recommended by many sexologists and sex therapist as a way to reclaim and rediscover your own body after experiencing sexual abuse or coercion. It allows you to take things at your own pace, exploring exactly what you want and prefer, building a more positive relationship to sex and sexuality.

The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only, and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Please, consult a medical professional or healthcare provider if you are seeking medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. CLIMAX is not liable for risks or issues associated with using or acting upon the information on the website.