Masturbation: Myths, Benefits, and Things You Need to Know

This may be a difficult topic to talk about with anyone, and it can be a little embarrassing. Since we don't talk about it openly in our society, many people have negative thoughts about masturbation. But it's actually a very normal and healthy part of your sexual health. So today, let's dispel some of the misconceptions and talk about the scientific truth in a simple, friendly way.

What exactly is masturbation?

Simply put, masturbation is the act of stimulating your own genitals or other sensitive areas of your body to achieve sexual gratification or pleasure. It is a very common thing that many people do, regardless of age or gender.

Masturbation actually plays an important role in healthy sexual development. It's a natural way to learn about your body, experience pleasure, and achieve sexual release, which is to say, an orgasm .

You can use your hands, fingers, or sex toys or other safe objects for this. This includes touching, stroking, and massaging the genitals. Some people enjoy inserting their fingers or a device into their vagina or anus. Others use something like a pillow to stimulate their penis or vagina.

In addition to the genitals, there are other erogenous zones on the body. For example, you can also experience sexual pleasure by touching the nipples or testicles. Sometimes using a lubricant can reduce friction and make this easier.

Many people think that only single people masturbate. But that's a misconception. Just like single people, people who are sexually active with a partner also masturbate. It's completely normal.

Are there really benefits to masturbation?

Yes, absolutely! Masturbation is very good for your physical and mental health. Research has found many benefits of masturbation.

Simply put, when you have an orgasm, your body releases hormones called dopamine and oxytocin . Dopamine is also known as the "feel-good hormone." Oxytocin is known as the "love drug." These two hormones increase positive feelings like happiness and relaxation in your body. They also help reduce the levels of the "stress hormone" called cortisol in our body.

Let's see clearly what these advantages are in the table below.

Another important thing is that there is absolutely no risk of pregnancy from masturbation. Also, there is almost no risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) if you do it with clean hands or use a cleaned instrument.

Are there special advantages for both sexes?

Yes, in addition to the general benefits, research has also found specific benefits that men and women receive separately.

Benefits for men

Some research has shown that men who ejaculate frequently may have a slightly reduced risk of prostate cancer . The theory behind this is that frequent ejaculation may prevent the buildup of cancer-causing substances in the prostate gland.

Benefits for women

Women have many more proven benefits.

• Women who masturbate are more likely to experience orgasm during sex with their partner.
• This is a good way to relieve menstrual cramps.
• Masturbation also helps to reduce vaginal dryness and pain during intercourse in older women.
• Some women may experience increased sexual desire during pregnancy. This is a safe way to release sexual tension in such cases. It can also help relieve symptoms such as backache during pregnancy.

According to one study, married women reported the following benefits of masturbation:

• Becoming a talisman more times
• Having high self-esteem
• Increased libido
• Being more satisfied with your marriage and sex life

The myths and truths everyone talks about

This topic is one of the most prevalent myths in our society. These misconceptions circulate among friends, and sometimes even among adults. Let's take a look at those myths and what scientific truth lies behind them.

So, are there no adverse effects from masturbation?

Although there are no serious side effects mentioned above, some people may experience some minor problems.

1. Guilt

You may feel guilty or ashamed about masturbation because of your religious, cultural, or personal beliefs. Scientifically, masturbation is not wrong or immoral. But if you feel overwhelmed by this feeling, talking to a sexual health counselor or mental health counselor can help you feel more comfortable.

2. Compulsive Sexual Behavior

Very rarely, some people can develop an uncontrollable habit of masturbation. This is sometimes called sex addiction or hypersexuality .

• If you are missing work or schoolwork,
• If you cancel plans with friends,
• If you feel like doing this, forgetting your responsibilities,
• If this affects your personal relationships,

You may be spending too much time on this. If so, talking to a counselor or therapist (talk therapy) is a good solution. It can also help to engage in another activity when you feel like masturbating. For example, you can read a book, go for a walk, or exercise.

3. Minor physical damage

Remember, if you masturbate vigorously or roughly, you may experience chafing or soreness. Also, if you do it too many times in a short period of time, your penis may swell slightly. But these are nothing to worry about, and these conditions will heal on their own in a day or two.

4. Decreased sexual sensitivity

Sometimes, masturbating in the same way all the time, especially when it's very intense, can lead to a slight decrease in sexual sensitivity. This means that your body becomes less responsive to normal stimulation. If that's the case, you might want to try changing the way you stimulate yourself.