From the Guidelines
Masturbation is a normal and healthy part of human sexuality for people of all genders across the lifespan. It's a common sexual behavior that most people engage in at some point, and it carries numerous physical and psychological benefits. Masturbation can help reduce stress, improve sleep, release sexual tension, enhance mood through endorphin release, and help people learn about their bodies and sexual preferences. According to a study by the American Society of Clinical Oncology 1, any kind of regular stimulation, including masturbation, would likely be of benefit for improving sexual response, regardless of the stimulation.
Some of the benefits of masturbation include:
- Reducing stress and anxiety
- Improving sleep quality
- Releasing sexual tension
- Enhancing mood through endorphin release
- Helping people learn about their bodies and sexual preferences
- Improving sexual function by increasing blood flow to genital tissues and strengthening pelvic floor muscles
From a health perspective, masturbation poses virtually no physical risks when done in moderation and with clean hands to prevent infection. Some people may experience feelings of guilt or shame about masturbation due to cultural or religious beliefs, but from a medical and psychological standpoint, it's considered a natural expression of sexuality. The frequency of masturbation varies widely among individuals, and there is no "normal" amount—what matters is that it feels comfortable and doesn't interfere with daily activities or relationships.
It's also worth noting that masturbation is not just limited to individual benefits, but it can also have a positive impact on relationships. For example, a study on sexuality education for children and adolescents 1 highlights the importance of promoting healthy sexual development and sexuality, which can include discussions about masturbation. Additionally, a study on the pharmacologic management of premature ejaculation 1 suggests that masturbation can be a helpful tool in addressing sexual health issues, such as premature ejaculation, and can be used as a form of therapy to improve sexual function.
Overall, masturbation is a normal and healthy part of human sexuality, and it's essential to approach the topic with an open and non-judgmental mindset, recognizing its potential benefits for physical and mental well-being.
From the Research
Masturbation and Human Sexuality
- Masturbation is a common aspect of human sexuality, but the provided studies do not directly address its normality or healthiness.
- The studies focus on erectile dysfunction, sexual dysfunction induced by antidepressant medication, and the treatment of erectile dysfunction using phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors 2, 3, 4.
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies to support or refute the idea that masturbation is a normal and healthy part of human sexuality.
Sexual Dysfunction and Treatment
- Erectile dysfunction is a common male sexual dysfunction associated with a reduced quality of life for patients and their partners 2.
- Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, such as sildenafil and tadalafil, are effective treatments for erectile dysfunction 3, 4.
- Sexual dysfunction, including erectile dysfunction, can be a side effect of antidepressant medication 3, 5.
- The risk of irreversible post-SSRI sexual dysfunction (PSSD) due to serotonergic antidepressants is estimated to be around 1 in 216 patients (0.46%) 5.
Depression and Erectile Dysfunction
- There is an association between depression and erectile dysfunction, with exposure to depression increasing the risk of erectile dysfunction and vice versa 6.
- Patients reporting erectile dysfunction should be routinely screened for depression, and patients presenting with symptoms of depression should be routinely assessed for erectile dysfunction 6.