Despite what society and religion might have us believe, masturbation is not a bad thing. Masturbation is completely normal and can actually be good for you. Among other things, it can help relieve stress and it can help you experiment with what you like and don’t like in a totally safe way. But how exactly do you masturbate? Can you masturbate too much? Get all your masturbation questions here.
Masturbation, or “solo sex,” is the term for stimulating your own genitals for sexual pleasure. It may or may not result in orgasm.
No. Masturbation is not bad though society and/or religion oftentimes shame us for wanting or seeking sexual pleasure. Masturbation actually has health benefits such as reducing stress, helping you sleep better, and relieving menstrual cramps.
Yes. Masturbation has health benefits such as reducing stress, helping you sleep better, and relieving menstrual cramps.
No.
No. The research is still coming in, but it looks like masturbation has no effect on testosterone levels, or if it does, the effects are very minor and short term.
If you have a clit, find your clit, then place one or two fingers on the clitoral hood over the clit and try rubbing in up-and-down or circle motions. If you have a penis, wrap your fist around your penis and stroke up and down with lube. Vary the pressure and speed to see what you like. You can also use sex toys to help you masturbate, watch porn, read or listen to erotica, or do other activities that turn you on.
As often as you want! You can’t masturbate “too much” and frequent masturbation is not unhealthy. As long as you’re not staying in bed all day and skipping school or work to do it you’re all good.
Masturbation is healthy and normal. There’s no such thing as “too much” masturbation - as long as it’s not impacting your daily life negatively and you’re still able to fulfill everyday responsibilities, like getting out of the house, going to work, or attending school then your masturbation frequency is a-okay. If you are feeling out of control about masturbation or porn use, a doctor or counsellor may be able to offer advice.
It depends. The more effort you put in the more exercise you’ll get! Typically masturbation involves less exertion than partnered sex, which is estimated to burn 70-100 calories.
Masturbation is normal, safe, and can be really fun. Don’t be afraid to try out new things when you masturbate as experimentation can help you figure out what works for you and what doesn’t. If you want, you can bring the things that work into partnered play. Overall, it’s just important to remember that masturbation is totally normal and even worth celebrating.
Louise Bourchier, MPH
Louise Bourchier is a sex educator and sex researcher with 8 years experience in the field. She teaches about sexual health, sexual pleasure, and communication in relationships through workshops, live-streams, and with written content. Using a sex-positive approach, a dash of humour, and bag full of fun props, Louise’s style of sex education for adults is not what you got in high school! Since 2011 she has taught over a hundred workshops to a wide range of audiences, from university students, to refugees, to medical professionals, to adult store clientele. She has a Masters of Public Health, and is currently a PhD candidate.
