If you've indulged in solo pleasure sessions, whether using a tube sock, pillow, hand, vibrator, or even your detachable shower head, you're familiar with the immediate pleasure it brings.
However, what you might not realize is that masturbation offers more than just pleasure.
What is Masturbation?
Masturbation is the sexual stimulation of one's own genitals for sexual arousal or pleasure, often to the point of orgasm. It is a natural and common activity for both men and women of all ages.
10 Benifts of Masturbation
Masturbation also contributes positively to your overall health and well-being. Below, discover the tangible benefits of self-love.
1. Lower Prostate Cancer Risk
A 2004 study revealed a notable reduction in prostate cancer risk among individuals ejaculating more than 21 times a month, with a 33% risk decrease compared to those with lower frequencies. Subsequent research in 2016 reaffirmed these findings, indicating a 10% risk reduction for those ejaculating 8 to 12 times monthly.
Key Takeaways: Masturbation has been associated with a decreased risk of prostate cancer, as evidenced by studies indicating up to a 33% risk reduction among individuals who ejaculate frequently.
2. Enhanced Erectile Function
Regular masturbation assists in maintaining pelvic floor muscle tone, preventing erectile dysfunction and incontinence, ensuring sustained sexual performance. Masturbation helps keep the smooth muscle of the penis enriched with oxygen, ensuring a perky "angle of the dangle" by promoting adequate blood flow during erections.
Key Takeaways: Masturbation supports erectile function by preserving muscle tone and facilitating optimal blood flow to the penis.
3. Improved Sexual Endurance
Masturbation provides a platform for individuals to practice control and endurance, potentially extending their duration during sexual activity. Timing oneself during masturbation sessions can aid in gradually increasing endurance, leading to improved performance and satisfaction during partnered sex.
Key Takeaways: Regular masturbation can enhance sexual endurance and control, leading to more fulfilling sexual experiences.
4. Boosted Immunity
Ejaculation increases cortisol levels, contributing to immune system regulation and maintenance. Masturbation creates an environment conducive to a strengthened immune system, as evidenced by increased white blood cell count post-orgasm.
Key Takeaways: Masturbation may boost immunity by regulating cortisol levels and promoting a robust immune response.
5. Elevated Mood
Masturbation triggers the release of dopamine and oxytocin, promoting feelings of happiness, satisfaction, and reward. An orgasm is a potent non-drug source of dopamine, enhancing mood regardless of an individual's gender or genitalia.
Key Takeaways: Masturbation can elevate mood by releasing neurochemicals associated with pleasure and reward.
6. Facilitates Better Sleep
Orgasm releases hormones like prolactin, serotonin, and oxytocin, facilitating relaxation and promoting better sleep quality. Masturbation-induced hormone release may alleviate insomnia symptoms, aiding individuals in falling asleep more easily.
Key Takeaways: Masturbation may promote better sleep by inducing hormone release associated with relaxation and happiness.
7. Potential Longevity
Research suggests a potential link between frequent orgasms and increased lifespan, with individuals experiencing two or more orgasms per week exhibiting reduced mortality rates.
Regular orgasms may contribute to a longer lifespan, underscoring the importance of sexual satisfaction for overall health and longevity.
Key Takeaways: Frequent orgasms could be associated with increased longevity, highlighting the potential benefits of sexual activity for overall health.
8. Improved Skin Health
Orgasm-induced increased blood flow to the skin improves vascular health, resulting in a healthy complexion and reduced inflammation. The release of oxytocin during orgasm reduces inflammation, making skin conditions like acne and rashes less noticeable.
Key Takeaways: Masturbation may contribute to improved skin health by enhancing blood flow and reducing inflammation.
9. Enhanced Self-Understanding
Masturbation provides individuals with the chance to explore and understand their bodies better, facilitating improved communication and sexual satisfaction in relationships. Knowing one's preferences and boundaries through self-exploration enables individuals to communicate effectively with partners, leading to more fulfilling sexual experiences.
Key Takeaways: Masturbation promotes self-understanding and communication in relationships, enhancing overall sexual satisfaction.
10. Heart Health Benefits
Regular orgasms may protect against cardiovascular disease, with studies indicating a lower risk of heart-related complications among individuals experiencing frequent orgasms. Masturbation-induced orgasmic release may contribute to improved cardiovascular health, highlighting the holistic benefits of sexual satisfaction.
Key Takeaways: Masturbation may promote heart health by reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and enhancing overall well-being.