The benefits of masturbation

What happens to your body when you masturbate? Where does this feeling of well-being come from and what to do if you have trouble reaching orgasm? Is masturbation good for health? Can it be excessive? The psychologists on Livi explain everything to you.

Masturbation refers to touching oneself to feel pleasure. But for many of us, it remains a taboo subject. Although the majority of people practice it, it can generate a feeling of shame, but this one does not have to be: masturbation is a healthy way to express one’s sexuality.

What is Masturbating?

Masturbation or solitary sexual pleasure involves touching your body, usually the penis, scrotum, clitoris, vulva, breasts and anus, to achieve orgasm. But it does not only concern the genitals: indeed, the whole body is sensitive to sexual stimulation.

The place, the way and the objects used for masturbation vary considerably from one individual to another. Fantasies, toys, movies, sounds or images can be used to stimulate us. Masturbation can also be done between two people. This is called mutual masturbation.

Where does this feeling of well-being that masturbation provides come from?

The genitals are endowed with nerve endings which, once stimulated, tell our brain that we are about to have sex. The genitals swell and produce natural lubrication, the heartbeat increases and the excitement rises. Masturbation can then cause an orgasm. In response to arousal and orgasm, the body releases hormones such as oxytocin, the pleasure hormone, which provides a feeling of calm and well-being.

How to masturbate when you have…

a vagina?

The vulva, clitoris and vagina have many nerve endings and can be stimulated in different ways, for example by caressing or penetration. You can use a lubricant for more comfort.

a penis?

The penis is usually stimulated by caressing, rhythmically moving the foreskin up and down. The scrotum (the skin covering the testicles) can also be stimulated. Some people also like to stimulate the anus with their fingers or a toy, and others use a lubricant when masturbating, which is especially helpful if the penis is circumcised.

How can masturbation help explore gender and sexuality?

Feeling connected to your own body is very important to know yourself better. Generally, to reach orgasm, it is necessary to touch her genitals, but this is not the only way to have pleasure. One can also focus on other sensitive parts of the body.

Various recent researches have proven that masturbation can prove beneficial for people who experience feelings of discomfort with their appearance or who feel a mismatch between their biological sex and their gender identity (gender dysphoria).

Is masturbation a healthy practice?

The benefits of masturbation are legion.

1. It helps to know your body.

Sexually, it’s one of the best ways to get to know your body and the way you like to be touched, which will boost your confidence.

2. She can make sex more enjoyable.

Getting to know each other better can improve sex.

3. It can boost libido.

Masturbation can help with low libido and can stimulate arousal.

4. It can help you be more enduring.

If you have a penis, masturbation can help you learn to be more enduring during sex, especially if you are prone to premature ejaculation .

5. It may reduce your risk of prostate cancer.

Ejaculation has been proven to help reduce the risk of prostate cancer.

6. It can relieve pain and help you relax.

Orgasm relieves pain and is used by some women for menstrual pain and, in some cultures, during childbirth. Some people also practice masturbation to relax and get to sleep .

What are the consequences of excessive masturbation?

As long as masturbation makes you feel good and you don’t harm others or yourself, excessive masturbation does not exist. On the other hand, if it takes over your social or professional life, it can be a sign of masturbation addiction. It may then be useful to talk to a doctor or therapist.

On the other hand, very frequent masturbation can lead to chafing and irritation, which can be avoided with good lubrication.

How to achieve orgasm through masturbation?

Being stressed or anxious can delay the onset of orgasm. Try to create a comfortable atmosphere to help you relax. Taking time for yourself can help you deal with stress. Why not experience masturbation as an appointment with yourself? Welcome this moment, take a few deep breaths and start slowly.

If you’re having trouble reaching orgasm and you’re worried about it, don’t hesitate to talk to a doctor or psychologist.

When should you talk to a doctor?

Talk to your doctor if:

• pain in or around your genitals;
• difficulty getting an erection ;
• difficulty reaching orgasm;
• premature ejaculation or absence of ejaculation;
• lack of desire and excitement.

Likewise, if you feel ashamed about resorting to masturbation or anything else related to your sexuality, it’s a good idea to talk about it. The psychologists on Healthlinerx can listen to you and help you, and you can also try to share your fears and questions with your partner or your friends.