7 Health Benefits of Masturbation

Masturbation has long been viewed as a shameful act that should be hidden or punished. Strong religious influences have led many to believe that "masturbation constitutes a grave moral disorder," as it involves the "deliberate use of the sexual faculty outside of marriage," according to the Religious Institute.

This belief is especially prevalent regarding women.

Nonetheless, touching one's genitals for pleasure is an action even small babies engage in. It's a natural and normal aspect of healthy sexual development and should not be a source of embarrassment or shame.

Both men and women engage in masturbation as a natural response to their body's desire for pleasure. Is masturbation truly wrong? According to doctors, it is not only a safe way to experience sexual pleasure but also offers numerous health benefits.

1. Masturbation promotes healthy blood flow to the genitals. Enhanced circulation in this area improves the body's response to sexual stimulation, leading to better sex and more intense orgasms.

2. For women, it can help prevent cervical and urinary tract infections through "tenting," or the opening of the cervix during arousal. As the cervix expands, fluid circulation increases, allowing bacteria-laden cervical fluids to be expelled from the body.

3. For men, masturbation lowers the risk of prostate cancer by flushing out potential carcinogens.

4. Masturbation serves as a stress reliever. Focusing on self-pleasure helps the mind relax, while the production of dopamine, a brain chemical that induces pleasure, calms the body.

5. Self-pleasure reduces the likelihood of depression by increasing endorphin levels in the bloodstream. Endorphins also act as natural painkillers.

6. Just as people tend to fall asleep more easily and feel more relaxed after sex, masturbation achieves the same effect by lowering blood pressure and releasing endorphins, acting as an effective "sleep aid."

7. Additionally, Dr. Vanessa Cullins, Vice President of External Medical Affairs at Planned Parenthood of America, states that "masturbation is a great way to learn what you like and don't like sexually without the risks (pregnancy or STDs). When you choose to have sex with someone, knowing how you like to be touched can greatly enhance your sexual experience with your partner."