Masturbation and Women. It's a Normal and Important Part of Our Sexuality

Masturbation and Women

To Masturbate or Not to Masturbate. That is the question. At least for some women. Although there are plenty of women out there who feel thoroughly comfortable with the idea of "self pleasure" (you go girls!), there are others who still have uncertainties as to whether they should be having any part of the "M" word. For some, masturbation still seems "taboo" and something they might even be ashamed to do (or at least admit they're doing). They feel some guilt connected with the fact that they are doing it and even enjoying it.

Why is this? A lot of it has to do with our upbringing. For some women their religious and/or cultural background and beliefs may come into play when it comes to their feelings on this subject. Perhaps they were told it was sinful or dirty and something that people should not be doing with their bodies.

Other times, it's simply the way the act of "touching ourselves" was handled when we were children. What happened when we got caught "feeling our genitals"? Were we told that it was bad and dirty? That it would make us go blind or grow hair on our chest? If, as a child, you're filled with absurd ideas like this, then, of course, it's going to affect you in some way later on. It's unfortunate that children hear these negative things because in reality it's a normal part of a growing child's exploration of their bodies.

A lot of adults eventually get to a point where they realize how crazy this was and are able to put those silly notions aside (with no ill effects later). But for some, in the back of their minds there is still some lingering shame or guilt involved every time they enjoy a good "self-pleasuring" session. I like to refer to it as "Jilling Off".

To truly enjoy the very enjoyable act of self-pleasure, women need to be able to overcome these negative feelings and realize that it's something beautiful you can do for yourself, it's healthy and it's a very important part of your sexuality. For those of you still on the fence, I'm going to try and change your mind. So stay with me here.

Health Benefits of Masturbation

Did you know that masturbation has some extraordinary physical, emotional, and even moral benefits? Not only does it feel good but there are some other reasons why you should be doing it. Did you also know that:

• Masturbation can help get you to sleep on those nights that you just can't seem to wind down and you're tossing and turning in bed. It has incredible relaxation benefits.
• For some women, a self-induced orgasm can relieve painful menstrual cramps (I can personally attest to this one).
• It's an awesome stress-buster! When it comes to stress reduction, it's as effective as running your legs off on the treadmill (and way more fun). Having regular orgasms relieves physical and emotional tension, can improve circulation and releases endorphins that can give us a feeling of well-being. (NOTE: For men, studies have shown that having regular ejaculations may decrease the risk of prostate cancer).
• This may sound funny but it's a great way to relieve boredom. Just curl up with a good book of erotica and a great sex toy, and you can keep yourself occupied for quite some time.
• If you're single you don't have to be worried about sexual frustration. If there's not someone to take care of business for you, then you do it for yourself (yeessssss!) . This is also true for women who are in long-distance relationships or have partners that are not home from time to time (such as traveling for their jobs).
• Ladies, if you're in a relationship but not able to climax with your partner (this is more common than you think), you can still have orgasms through masturbation (and you can have as many as you want), which, again, relieves sexual frustration.
• On the flip side, it's great for men whose partner might not be physically able to participate in sex for certain periods of time (such as after she has a baby or undergoes certain types of surgery).
• Masturbation prevents sexually-transmitted diseases because it's the most worry-free form of safe sex. As a bonus, you don't have to worry about getting pregnant!

HERE'S A MASTURBATION FUN FACT: According to the sex researcher Alfred Kinsey, women take a little less than four minutes to have an orgasm from masturbation. So it's perfect for the busy gal on the go!!

Masturbation is a Very Positive Thing

Masturbation is a normal, healthy release of sexual energy. It's sex with someone you care about and trust. Knowing and understanding your body and what makes it "tick" is good knowledge to have for those times when you are with a partner. You'll know what works best for you and as a result, be able to communicate that to them.

Let me say it again. Masturbation is normal and healthy and it feels good. You are not a pervert or a weirdo with mental problems if you do it. Masturbation is a very common practice by a large percentage of the population. And, contrary to popular belief, almost as many women do it as men (but talk about it less). National studies have shown that anywhere from 80-90% of women masturbate on a semi-regular basis and roughly 90-99% of men do (which is not as surprising). Both married and single people masturbate, but the single people tend to do it more.

Can Masturbation Be Harmful?

As a rule, the medical community considers masturbation to be natural and harmless and a safe expression of sexuality for both women and men. It's a part of normal sexual behavior that can be performed during most of a person's lifetime.

Masturbating as much or as little as you want is safe and harmless (and should be done guilt-free). However, if it's being done to the extent of causing physical injury or is interfering with one's daily life and/or intimate relationship, then the issue may need to be discussed with a professional.

Masturbation Techniques for Women

I meet so many women at my parties who decide to purchase an adult toy to introduce into their relationships and that makes me extremely happy because I know how valuable that can be. I love it even more when they pick one out for themselves to use for "solo" pleasure as well. This means they've given themselves permission to experience orgasms when, where and how they want to. It empowers them and gives them options without doing harm to their relationship. I celebrate these wonderful women.

Vibrators are wonderful tools to assist in masturbation but there are other ways to go (or come – LOL) as well. Typically women use direct clitoral stimulation with their toys and some women have dual-action toys (which are super popular) so they can achieve penetration and clitoral stimulation simultaneously (what a breathtaking combination that can be)!

Clitoral stimulation with your fingers and hands, or with the running shower water are also effective for some women. In addition, some women find it enjoyable to rub against certain objects such as a pillow or her mattress.

All of these are fabulous! Just find out what works for you and begin your "Stress Reduction Program" (wink wink) today. You'll feel like a new woman.