Masturbation

What are the benefits of masturbation?

Certain benefits highlighted by research on masturbating include less stress, improving sleep, treatment of sexual problems, enhancing body image and strengthening specific muscles groups such as those located in the pelvic and anal regions.

Other research identifies both potential benefits and also side-effects of masturbation. Sexual stimulation, including masturbation, may help you reduce stress, sleep better, raise your mood, relax, experience pleasure, relieve cramps, release sexual tension, have better sex, and better understand your wants and needs, according to research and anecdotal reports. Couples may also masturbate to explore different passions and avoid pregnancy. Self-pleasure also aids in the prevention of sexually transmitted illnesses. On the other hand masturbation can be addictive, and can result in decreased sensitivity to sex with others as one is used to one's own touch.