When you first discover the joys of self-lovin', a whole new dimension opens up, right? It's like you found the cheat code to happiness. And let's not pretend otherwise, once you pop that cherry, it's like a one-way trip to Pleasure town!

But hang tight, before we go any further, let's address the elephant in the room: is masturbation healthy? Like, does it have some magical health benefits or are we just fooling ourselves? And what's the deal with masturbation and prostate cancer?

Today's the day we're gonna lay it all out on the table and get real about the facts. Settle in, cause we're about to debunk some myths, spill some tea, and get down to the nitty-gritty of self-love and its impact on our health. Let's go!

Is masturbation healthy?

Oh, honey, masturbation isn't just a party – it's a VIP pass to a whole buffet of health benefits. It's hitting the jackpot, but instead of monies, you're cashing in on better cognition and some sweet, sweet sleep.

According to a 2017 research published in the Journals of Gerontology, getting down and dirty with yourself can actually keep your mind sharp as you age. They studied a bunch of people between 50 and 83 who were getting busy in various ways, and - the more they did it, the better they scored on cognitive tests! Who knew getting it on could make you smarter? Experts are scratching their heads about why getting jiggy with it could be a brain booster. Here's what they're thinking: dopamine released during sexual activity might also have been protecting the brain, thus boosting cognition as you age.

And let's not forget about that post-masturbation snooze fest - the feeling when you just wanna curl up and catch some zzzs. When you climax, your body releases a bunch of chemicals, all of which are the ultimate bedtime buddies. So next time you're tossing and turning, maybe it's time to skip counting sheep and go for a solo romp instead. It's all in the name of health, right?

Benefits of Masturbation on Physical Health:

Get ready to feel like a rockstar, because your solo playtime is like a symphony of hormones in your brain. In the most simple sense - amazing events down there lead to amazing events up in the brain. We're talking dopamine for happiness, endorphins for stress relief, prolactin for mood boosts, and don't forget the love potion oxytocin. Oh, and testosterone, the secret sauce for stamina and arousal.

Bestie, that’s not all. Masturbation makes your pelvic floor as strong as your coffee. FYI, pelvic floor muscles actually help restrict flow of urine. These same muscles are activated and strengthened during an orgasm. For females, it can lead to stronger orgasms. For males, it can help make your penis harder and prevent erectile dysfunction.

Hold onto your hats, because the benefits of masturbation just keep on coming. Ladies, listen up, 'cause this one's for you!

Ever wish you had a magic potion for those pesky menstrual cramps, leg pain, migraines, or achy joints? Well, masturbation can be your temporary ticket to relief. It's like a spa day for your body.

And let's talk about menopause, shall we? Estrogen levels may be taking a nosedive. During this time, your vagina might feel a little drier than usual (hello, vaginal atrophy), but staying sexually active can work wonders. By increasing blood flow down there, your vagina gets a hydration boost, making discomfort a thing of the past. So, who says self-love isn't the ultimate form of self-care? 

And now, for the fellas - first up, let's talk about the relation between masturbation and  prostate cancer. According to some legit research from 2004 and a follow-up in 2016, it turns out that guys who ejaculate more frequently could be lowering their risk of prostate cancer. Like, significantly. We're talking a 33% reduction for those who go hard with the ejaculation compared to those who keep it more low-key. It's like giving your prostate a detox, flushing out all those potential troublemakers that could lead to cancer.

And let's talk about another major concern– erectile dysfunction.The best way to keep things “up” down below, is to keep it pumping, according to this 2008 study published in The American Journal of Medicine. In the five-year study, there were only 16 cases (per 1,000) of erectile dysfunction (ED) in men who had sex three times per week, compared to a whopping 79 cases (per 1,000) in men who engaged in intercourse less than once per week.

And last but not least, by releasing leftover sperm consistently, you're giving fresh, high-quality swimmers a chance to take center stage. And that’s not all - keep goinggg.

Benefits of Masturbation on Mental Health:

Think back to the most mind-blowing orgasm or that unforgettable sexual experience. Yeah, it probably didn't happen while you were stressing about work or drowning in your to-do list, did it? It just simply makes you forget about your worries.

And here's another thing, babe – your body isn't just a vessel, it's your bestie. Masturbation is about getting to know yourself inside and out. It's a crash course in self-love and acceptance, boosting your own self esteem and making you feel like a freaking goddess. 

And let's not forget about the healing power of self-pleasure. For survivors of sexual trauma, masturbation can be a lifeline. It's a way to reclaim your body, your pleasure, and your sense of control. This decreases anxiety and increases self-awareness, which is amazing for your mental health.

Potential Risks and Drawbacks:

Some people may consider masturbation a threat to their relationship, leading to feelings of jealousy or insecurity. Open up about your desires and needs, including your solo playtime. Honesty is the best policy in the bedroom.

But hold up, sometimes it's not about your partner – it's about you. Societal or spiritual expectations are weighing you down with guilt or shame post-masturbation and can cause distress.

I also mentioned that masturbation can aid in resolving sexual trauma. While it’s true for some, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. If you're still struggling to heal, don't force it. Talking to a therapist can provide the support and guidance you need to move forward at your own pace.

Another drawback of masturbating too roughly is that it can lead to chafing or tender skin down there. Plus, if you're going at it like a champ non-stop, your penis might swell up a bit. But hey, no need to panic – these minor effects usually heal up within a day or two.

While these are small drawbacks - one of the major risks is compulsive sexual behavior. If you find yourself glued to your pleasure routine, skipping out on work or ditching plans, it might be time to hit pause and reassess. Compulsive sexual behavior is no joke, and it can seriously mess with your life. If you're struggling to keep things in check, don't hesitate to reach out to a therapist. They've got the tools and expertise to help you get back on track and find balance in all areas of your life. Remember, self-love is great, but too much of a good thing can sometimes be a red flag.

How many times masturbation is healthy?

Let’s get to the question that all of you have been waiting for - how much masturbation is healthy?

There's no right or wrong when it comes to how often you indulge in solo play. Some folks are 4 times a week, while others prefer a more occasional rendezvous. Heck, some people might not even be into it at all, and that's totally cool too. It's all about what works for you.

But when does it become ‘too much’? If your masturbation mojo starts interfering with your job, your responsibilities, or your social life, it has become ‘too much’. If it's all-consuming and causing physical discomfort, it's definitely a red flag. 

If you're looking to dial it down a notch by your own, there are some tricks up our sleeves. Try interrupting the environment that makes you want to masturbate - like sitting alone in the room or with your laptop. You can also try exercising more - it makes you feel tired, sleepy and releases the same endorphins as masturbation.

And remember, darling, there's no shame in seeking help if you need it. There are professionals who can help you overcome this - all you have to do is reach out.

Health Professionals' Perspectives:

And you don’t have to just take my word for yayyyyy to masturbation. Here’s what Susan Milstein, a certified sexuality educator and professor of health and kinesiology at Texas A&M University says -

"For a lot of people, when they're masturbating, especially solo, there's a relaxation component to it," says "They don't feel the need to perform when they are just there for themselves."

She also adds another benefit to it. “If you're trying to abstain from sex or are worried about the risk of pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections (STIs), masturbation is great. It really is one of the safest forms of sex out there, as long as you're not sharing toys and cleaning in between,"

So, at the end of this, what do we know?

Is masturbation good or bad? It’s more than good. Is masturbation healthy? Absolutely yes.

Whether you choose to masturbate is entirely up to you; there's no pressure. How many times you masturbate is also your call. Aunt Sassy's always got your back, reminding you of the perks either way.

To gain an in depth knowledge about masterbation check out our new blog - Self-Love 101: Facts about Masturbation you should know

Is Masturbation Healthy FAQs : 

1. Is masturbation healthy?

You betcha! Masturbation is totally healthy, no question about it. It's got loads of physical perks like easing cramps, boosting cognition, and improving sleep. Plus, it's a  miracle worker for your mental health. So go, embrace it guilt-free.

2. Does masturbation increase the risk of prostate cancer?

No, it in fact has quite the opposite effect. There've been loads of studies backing this up, like the one right here. If anything, it's just one more reason to indulge in a little self-love session now and then! 

3. How much masturbation is considered healthy?

There ain't no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Some people masturbate thrice a week, while others keep it chill, maybe only once in two weeks. Do you, boo. It's all about finding your own rhythm and doing what feels good for your body and mind.

4. Can masturbation be harmful to physical health?

Only if you're going way overboard with it. If you're masturbating like it's your full-time job, then yeah, there might be some drawbacks.Weakness, fatigue, or maybe even premature ejaculation. But hey, we're talking super-duper excessive here. As long as you're keeping it in check and giving your body some time in between, you're all good, my friend.

5. Is it possible to become addicted to masturbation?

It’s totally possible to become an addict. If the thoughts of masturbation overshadows your work, relationships and basically starts taking over your life, you might have crossed the line. This is the sign that things are getting out of hand. Remember, there’s no shame in reaching out for help if you need it. You're not alone in this, and there are professionals who can support you through it.

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About the Author 

Hemali (she/her) is an explorer of the realms of sexuality, intimacy, and dating. She talks endlessly about the evolving landscape of feminist narratives on the big screen and makes you reanalyze the portrayal of women in mainstream culture. If you're looking for alternative conversation starters, take your pick from: Biryani, Art Fairs, or Spoken Word Poetry.