Masturbation: Dropping the Stigma

Masturbation is “the self-stimulation of your genitals or other sensitive areas of your body for sexual arousal or pleasure.” Although it is common, normal, and natural, it is rarely discussed openly. Female masturbation may or may not involve an intimate partner. It also may or may not lead to orgasm. 

Although masturbation has been stigmatized, we believe in open and honest discussion. For this reason, we explored the literature on female masturbation so that you can understand the possible benefits.  At Diana Health, we want to empower you to live your healthiest life, which includes sexual health. 

Possible Benefits

• Stress reduction: Female masturbation may help with relaxation, leading to a decrease in cortisol and anxiety. There is a correlation between sexual activity, which may or may not involve masturbation and improved mental health. For some women, masturbation is a coping strategy used during stressful times that can increase relaxation. 
• Pain control: Masturbation increases blood flow to the pelvic organs. The endorphins released during orgasm may help decrease the pain sensation of menstrual cramping. 
• Body awareness: Research has found that women who masturbate have improved sexual satisfaction and function. A woman who masturbates may better understand what type of touch feels good to her and then be able to communicate this with her intimate partner. 
• Pleasure: Masturbation often leads to the release of endorphins from the brain. These endorphins can increase well-being and support a positive mood. 
• Better sleep: The oxytocin and prolactin release that happens with an orgasm may support better sleep. Some research has shown that women fall asleep more quickly and even sleep deeper after an orgasm. 
• Pelvic muscle strength: Masturbating may encourage women to tighten their pelvic muscles and, thus, improve their pelvic muscle strength. This may help sexual function as well as bladder control.

Potential Risks

Although female masturbation is generally thought to be safe, there are some potential risks to consider. 

• Compulsion: Although rare, some women have found that masturbating interferes with their other daily activities and responsibilities. Too much of anything can be unhealthy. 
• Discomfort: The genital skin is very sensitive, and overly aggressive pressure or friction can cause tears in the skin, irritation, swelling, and pain. Because of this, it’s important to make sure that the pressure that you use during masturbation leaves you feeling good, both immediately after masturbation and beyond. 
• Reduced sensitivity: Although this is typically temporary, some women have reported decreased sensitivity with frequent masturbation or more forceful pressure. Be gentle. 
• Infection risk: It’s important to have good hygiene when masturbating. Clean hands and, if used, clean sex toys can decrease the risk of infection. 
• Guilt: Because of the stigma associated with masturbation in some religious and cultural groups, women may feel guilty or ashamed of masturbating. Although we want you to be educated about masturbation, it’s important to realize that it can be a sensitive subject for some people. 

Female masturbation is normal and can be an enjoyable part of sexual health. At Diana Health, we want to empower you with education so that you can make decisions that support your overall well-being.