Ahem, ladies, it's time we talk about something taboo but important: masturbation. Yes, you heard me right. I'm talking about flicking the bean, jilling off, polishing the pearl, taking the solo express, or whatever you want to call it. And guess what? It's actually good for you! That's right, it's time to start celebrating this solo activity for all the benefits it can bring to your sexual health.
Here are the 10 benefits of female masturbation:
Improved Sexual Function
First and foremost, masturbation can help you get to know your own body and what feels good to you, and can improve sexual function by increasing blood flow to the genitals, which can enhance sensitivity and lubrication (1). By learning what works, you can communicate your desires to your partner(s) and have more fulfilling sexual experiences (2). When you explore your body in a safe and comfortable way, you can discover your own pleasure zones and what types of stimulation you enjoy the most. This knowledge can be very helpful when you're with a partner and can help you communicate your needs and desires more effectively. Plus, let's be honest, who doesn't love a bit of self-discovery?
Not quite sure what you’re into? Try experimenting with a variety of toys that stimulate different parts of the body. This can range from nipple suckers such as the Octopussy - Nipple Sucker, clitoral toys such as the Feeling Thorny - Vibrating Rose, vaginal toys like the Shake Like An Earthquake - G Spot Vibrator, and anal toys like the My Beading Heart - Anal Beads. You can also experiment with toys that offer a combination, such as the Do Me Meow - Vibrating Egg and the Some Bunny to Love - Rabbit Vibrator, which stimulates multiple areas of the body. A little experimentation can go a long way towards helping you learn more about your body and discovering what you like.
Stress ReliefLet's talk about the stress-relieving benefits of masturbation. When you orgasm, your body releases tension and promotes relaxation, making it a great way to relieve stress after a long day. When we masturbate, our bodies release “feel-good” chemicals including dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin, which can reduce stress and improve our mood (1). Masturbation can be especially beneficial for women who have busy lives or experience high levels of stress. Masturbation can be a great way to relieve stress, plus, it's a lot cheaper than therapy! So go ahead and set some alone time for yourself, light a few candles, relax, and enjoy!
Improved SleepHaving trouble sleeping? Masturbation can actually help you sleep better! So, forget counting sheep and start counting orgasms! After all, our bodies release hormones after orgasm that promotes relaxation and sleepiness (1). So, why not masturbate before bedtime and enjoy a more restful night's sleep? Sweet dreams, my friends!
Prevention of Sexual DysfunctionLadies, let's be real. We all want to have mind-blowing sex, right? Well, masturbation can actually help us achieve that goal. By becoming more comfortable with our bodies and exploring what feels good, we can become more confident and relaxed during sexual encounters which can reduce the risk of sexual dysfunction, such as difficulty achieving orgasm or pain during sex (7). So, get to know your body and have some solo fun, ladies!
Improved Pelvic Floor Health
Who knew that having a good time could also improve our health? Masturbation can actually help improve pelvic floor health in women. During orgasm, the muscles of the pelvic floor contract and relax, which can help strengthen these muscles over time. Strong pelvic floor muscles can help improve bladder control, reduce the risk of pelvic organ prolapse, and enhance sexual pleasure (5). So, let's get those muscles moving, ladies! It's time to exercise our way to better pelvic floor health.
Looking for a product designed to help strengthen your muscles? We highly recommend the Exersize Matters - Ben Wa Balls.
Menstrual Cramp Relief
Did you know that masturbation can also help with menstrual cramps? It's true! When you orgasm, your body releases a rush of endorphins, which can act as a natural pain reliever (6). So, if you're feeling crampy and don't have access to any over-the-counter painkillers, a little self-love session might be just what the doctor ordered.
Improved Mental Health
Let's face it, life can be stressful. But did you know that masturbation can actually have positive effects on our mental health? It can help us feel more comfortable with our bodies, reduce stress and anxiety, and promote feelings of pleasure and self-love (4). So, take a little "me time" and give yourself some self-love. You deserve it, girl!
Better Sex with Partners
Now, I know what you might be thinking: "But won't masturbating make me less interested in sex with my partner?" The answer is no! In fact, masturbation can actually increase your desire for sex. When you pleasure yourself, your body releases endorphins and oxytocin, which can boost your mood and leave you feeling more sexually aroused. It can also help shorten orgasmic latency and improve orgasmic function (2). So, not only can it help you feel good in the moment, but it can also help you get in the mood for some sexy time with your partner later.
Here are some great products we recommend trying out with a partner:
1. Heart Throb - Love pillow
2. Wear Her Out - Panty Vibrator
3. Hanging Out - Strap On Vibrator
4. Put A Ring On It - Vibrating Cock Ring
Safer Sex
Let's talk about safety. Masturbation is the safest form of sexual activity out there. It eliminates the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unwanted pregnancy (3). And not only that, but masturbation can also help us become more comfortable with our bodies, which can make us more confident and assertive in sexual encounters with partners. Just remember that if you are going to use toys, keep them clean with a mild cleanser such as the Cherry Poppins - Toy Cleaner, which is specifically designed for sex toys to avoid the risk of infections. Also, you’ll want to be sure to use the right kind of lubricant for your toy as well, since not all lubes are compatible with sex toys (if you aren’t sure which one to use with your toy, we suggest sticking to a water-based lube to be safe, and avoid hybrid or silicone lubes). So, let's all practice safe and solo sex, ladies!
Self Care
Masturbation is natural and healthy, and can have many benefits for women's sexual health. By improving sexual function, relieving stress, improving sleep, preventing sexual dysfunction, improving pelvic floor health, and promoting mental health, masturbation can be an important part of your self-care routine. If you're new to masturbation or would like to explore it more, remember that it's completely normal and natural. Experiment with what feels good, and don't be afraid to communicate your desires to your partner.
Now, I'm not saying that you should replace all of your sexual encounters with solo sessions, but I am saying that it's time to start celebrating the many benefits of masturbation. So, the next time you find yourself with some alone time, don't be afraid to indulge in a little self-love. Your body (and mind) will thank you for it. Masturbation is a wonderful and natural way to explore your body, increase your desire for sex, relieve menstrual cramps, and reduce stress. And let's not forget the added bonus of getting to know yourself a little better. So, go ahead, give yourself a hand. You deserve it!
Sources:
1. Famuboni, Dayo. “What happens to the female body when you masturbate?” The Femedic, Maze Creative. Oct. 2020, https://thefemedic.com/sexual-health/what-happens-female-body-masturbate/.
2. Huang, Sijia, et al. “Masturbation Frequency and Sexual Function in Individuals with and without Sexual Partners.” Sexes, vol. 3, no. 2, Mar. 2022, pp. 229–43. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.3390/sexes3020018.
3.“Is Masturbation Good for You?” Planned Parenthood Federation of America Inc. (only include this information if it is different than the name of the blog site), 2023, Is Masturbation Good For You?.
4. “Masturbation” Cleveland Clinic, 2023, Masturbation: Facts & Benefits.
5. “Pelvic Floor Muscles” Continence Foundation of Australia, Aug, 2022, https://www.continence.org.au/about-continence/continence-health/pelvic-floor.
6. Sachdev, Geetika. “Relieve your period cramps with this SECRET tip.” Health Shot, Nov. 2021, Can masturbation relieve help you relieve your period cramps | HealthShots.
7. “Types and Causes of Female Sexual Dysfunction.” Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 2022, https://www.bidmc.org/centers-and-departments/obstetrics-and-gynecology/programs-and-services/gynecology/programs-services/center-for-intimate-health-and-wellness/types-of-female-sexual-dysfunction#:~:text=Female%20sexual%20dysfunction%20is%20when,sexual%20intimacy%20that%20causes%20distress.