Female Masturbation: Myths, Benefits, and Safe Practices

It is often related to men, but women do it too. Masturbation helps women to understand their desires, embrace their sexuality, and discover what makes them feel good. Female masturbation, which is often misconceived or accompanied by certain unnecessary prejudices is a natural aspect of human sexuality. It involves self-stimulation for sexual pleasure which often leads to orgasm. Society may have different perceptions regarding masturbation but understanding its physiological, psychological and health impacts are important for awareness and self-acceptance. So, let’s look at this topic more broadly, dispel the myths and learn about its benefits and potential effects.

What is Female Masturbation?

Female masturbation is an act of stimulating the genital parts to attain sexual arousal or orgasm. A study found that more than half of the women in America between the ages of 18-49 years masturbate at least once in three months. Often stigmatised, masturbation is now getting accepted by many as people are becoming aware of its positive impacts on an individual’s health. The act can be done using hands, sex toys or other objects to stimulate the vagina, clitoris and other erogenous zones. It is a personal activity whose frequency and technique differ among individuals. (Source: https://www.webmd.com/women/features/female-masturbation-5-things-know)

Is it Normal to Masturbate?

Yes, masturbating is entirely normal for both women and men. It is a natural expression of human sexuality and provides a safe way to explore one’s body and desires. Most women masturbate at some point in their lives often as a way of understanding their sexual preferences and enhancing sexual health.

Myths VS Facts About Female Masturbation

Myth ❌	Fact ✔
Women do not masturbate	Many women masturbate, but societal stigmas often keep it underreported
Masturbation causes infertility	There is no scientific evidence linking moderate masturbation to female infertility
It is only for single women	Women in relationships also masturbate for various reasons including stress relief and enhanced sexual satisfaction
It is unhealthy	Masturbation is a healthy sexual practice when done in moderation

What are the Benefits of Masturbation for Women?

Masturbation has the following benefits:

1. It Helps Relieve Stress

• Masturbation stimulates the release of endorphins. These are also known as the “feel-good” hormones that our body produces naturally.
• These hormones help reduce stress and anxiety which creates a sense of relaxation and calmness.
• It can serve as a healthy coping mechanism during emotionally challenging times.

2. It Aids in Better Sleep

• The body relaxes and unwinds due to the release of hormones like oxytocin after orgasm.
• This aids in quality sleep and can be particularly beneficial for women who experience sleep disturbances or insomnia.

3. It Helps Relieving Pain

• Masturbation boosts blood circulation which helps alleviate menstrual cramps and pelvic discomfort.
• The release of endorphins during masturbation also acts as a natural painkiller for headaches, back pain, and other minor aches.

4. It is Good for Sexual Health

• Masturbation helps women understand their sexual preferences and desires.
• This knowledge can improve communication with partners which can help in a more satisfying sexual relationship.
• It may also increase confidence and reduce anxiety about sexual performance.

5. It Helps Improve Mood

• It is noted that healthy and regular sexual activities including masturbation help boost the mental health of the individuals.
• The natural brain chemicals i.e. dopamine and serotonin released during orgasm elevate the mood and reduce depressed feelings.
• They can also prevent the feeling of loneliness thus improving one’s outlook towards life.

Takeaway:

Masturbation is a normal aspect of female sexuality that offers multiple benefits including physical, emotional and sexual well-being if done in moderation. But, What if someone gets addicted to it or does it excessively? Let’s understand the repercussions ahead.

Excessive Masturbation and Female Fertility

Masturbation in moderation is a natural and healthy sexual activity that does not impact fertility. However, when excessive or unsafe practices are involved, there can be indirect effects on reproductive health. Let’s get insights into it.

1. Masturbation has No Direct Connection with Infertility

• There is no scientific proof that moderate masturbation has an impact on a woman’s ability to conceive.
• Masturbation is a natural part of sexual health and has no effect on ovulation, the quality of eggs or other reproductively important processes.

2. Potential Risks with Excessive or Unsafe Practices

• Microtears soreness or swelling in the genital area can result from aggressive or frequent stimulation. This may cause discomfort during sexual activity or other infertility treatments.
• The chances of vaginal or urinary tract infections (UTIs) are increased when contaminated sex toys, dirty hands or objects are used during masturbation.
• Reproductive health may be impacted by infections that persist for a long time without getting treated.
• The normal balance of vaginal bacteria may be upset by frequent stimulation or poor hygiene. This may result in conditions such as bacterial vaginosis which may indirectly impact reproductive health.

3. Psychological and Behavioural Impact

• Over-reliance on masturbation might reduce intimacy with a partner. This can potentially affect the emotional and physical aspects of trying to conceive.
• Compulsive behaviour linked to masturbation may contribute to psychological stress which is known to influence fertility indirectly.

4. Safe Practices to Maintain Reproductive Health

• Always wash hands and any objects used during masturbation to reduce the risk of infections.
• Gentle and mindful stimulation can prevent injuries or discomfort.
• If you experience persistent pain, irritation or unusual symptoms, consult a healthcare professional promptly.

Takeaway

There is a popular saying – Excess of anything is bad. Masturbation in moderation has no effect on a woman’s fertility but excessive or unsafe masturbation can cause some health issues that may eventually impact fertility. When it comes to masturbation, frequency and hygiene are crucial.

When Should You Concern About Masturbation?

Normally, masturbation is a healthy and safe practice however, there are some circumstances in which it may either indicate a problem or present some difficulties.

Is it Impacting Your Daily Life or Responsibilities?

Following are some signs that masturbation is impacting your daily life.

• Impact on Productivity: The act of masturbation may prevent work, studies, or household chores when done excessively.
• Neglect of Relationships: It can isolate the person from friends, relatives or partner
• Disruption of Routine: Letting go of appointments, meals or even sleep because of a compulsive nature can create problems.

Is it Becoming an Addiction?

Following are the negative consequences in case of addiction.

• Feeling Lost: Constant preoccupation with the urge to masturbate often leads to feelings of loss of control.
• Emotional Triggers: Using masturbation as a primary coping mechanism for stress, anxiety or depression may lead to its addiction.
• A feeling of Regret: Some individuals may have continuous feelings of regret after the act indicating a psychological conflict.
• Social Withdrawal: Avoiding interactions or gatherings due to prioritising masturbation over other activities.

Is it Causing Physical Discomfort?

Due to excessive frequency or improper techniques, masturbation can lead to discomfort. Let’s understand how.

• Vaginal Irritation: Overstimulation can lead to soreness, redness or swelling.
• Risk of Infections: Poor hygiene practices or use of unclean objects may increase the risk of vaginal or urinary tract infections.
• Decreased Sensitivity: Excessive stimulation can sometimes reduce sensitivity temporarily.
• Physical Injury: Aggressive or improper techniques may cause minor injuries to the genital area.

What Should be Done? If masturbation is causing trouble or physical harm, talk to a therapist or any health care provider regarding the issues and how to manage them. Stay informed and get timely treatment to avoid worsening of the symptoms.

Side Effects of Excessive Masturbation

• Physical Discomfort: Too much stimulation can cause inflammation or swelling in the vaginal region.
• Impact on Relationships: Overdependence on solo sexual activity could impact the relationship with the partner.
• Mental Strain: Stigma-related psychological problems involve feelings of guilt or shame after masturbating.

Treatment Options for Excessive Masturbation

Although masturbation is healthy when done occasionally, its excessive practice can cause issues. The following is a list of some of the recommended treatments for managing the side effects of excessive masturbation.

Treatment	Description	How it Helps
Counselling	Consulting a therapist to identify and address underlying emotional or behavioural triggers.	– Provides professional support to manage addictive behaviour. – Helps address stress, anxiety or depression that might be contributing to the habit.
Stress-Relieving Activities	Activities like meditation, yoga and breathing exercises help calm the mind and body.	– Relaxing techniques help reduce stress and improve self-control. – They help in redirecting focus away from compulsive urges.
Support Groups	Joining forums or peer-led support groups to connect with others facing similar issues.	– This provides an opportunity to tell others about the experiences without getting judged. – The individuals can get emotional support and practical tips from peers.
Medical Advice	Getting advice from a gynaecologist for physical discomfort or injuries caused by excessive activity.	– Addresses physical side effects such as swelling or infections. – Ensures proper care and prevents complications.

Wrapping it Up!

Let’s Break the Stigma! Popular actress and feminist Vidya Balan was once asked by a popular show host that, “What should men know about women that they do not?” and she answered: “Women want it, need it and like it as much as they do.” While she never specified what, it sure does apply in case of female sexuality. In this context, Uunderstanding female masturbation is holds the key to breaking down societal taboos and promoting a healthier perspective on sexual health. It is a normal, beneficial activity for most women, provided it is practised safely and in moderation. Embrace open conversations about sexuality to foster self-awareness and empowerment.