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