Masturbation
Masturbation – also known as solo sex, self-pleasuring, solitary sex or self-love – refers to touching your own sex organs for pleasure.
Who Masturbates?
Regardless of age, gender, culture, religion or race, masturbation occurs in all societies.
Why Do People Masturbate?
- To learn about what feels good to them and how they like to be stimulated or pleasured.
- To experience pleasure.
- To relieve (sexual tension or general tension).
- To relieve stress.
- To engage in sex when a partner is unavailable or doesn't want to have sex.
- To relax.
Are There Side Effects?
There are no harmful side effects of masturbation. However, some people report feeling guilty about masturbating. Negative feelings associated with any behavior can threaten a person's health and well being.
Health Benefits of Masturbation
A number of studies have proven the benefits of self-pleasuring to mental, social and physical health:
- Masturbation provides a healthy sexual outlet for people who choose to abstain from sex with partners or who do not currently have available sexual partners.
- It can be a route to safer sex, to help prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.
- Masturbation can help people sleep.
- It allows a person to become familiar and comfortable with their body.
- Masturbation can help reduce stress.
- It is a source of pleasurable sexual arousal.
Can a Person Become Addicted or Masturbate too Much?
Yes, it can be considered an addiction if it interferes with other aspects of your life – such as relationships, school or work – or prevents you from fulfilling your regular commitments and responsibilities.
Last Reviewed: September 2019