Getting On with Getting OffWhy Masturbation is Good for You

Getting On with Getting Off - Why Masturbation is Good for You

Written by Kathleen Davis

Tuesday, 15 May 2007

It’s no secret that masturbation has long gotten a bad rap. For centuries, major religions labeled it a sin. At the start of the 19th century, the medical community blamed masturbation for feeblemindedness, insanity, impotence and blindness. Inventors even attempted to cure this affliction with devices designed to prevent people from indulging in themselves..

Even in our more permissive society, masturbation is often dismissed as the lowest form of sexual expression. Well, I’m here to tell you, masturbation is nothing to be ashamed of. In fact, it offers a number of benefits. Known sexual health benefits of masturbation

Solo masturbation is a safe sex practice that carries no risk of sexually transmitted infection and unwanted pregnancy. As part of lovemaking between two people, “mutual masturbation” can be an appetizer or the entrée.
Sexual tension is released. Masturbation allows people to express their sexuality by themselves and is especially valuable if one doesn’t have a partner, the partner is unavailable, or if a couple wants to abstain from intercourse for any reason.
Being familiar with your own sexual responses allows you to better communicate your wants and needs to your partner.
Masturbation is a popular treatment for sexual dysfunction; for example, women who don't orgasm can learn by masturbating. Men who suffer from premature ejaculation can use masturbation to practice control.

Known health benefits of masturbation:

Eases some of the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome
Relief from menstrual cramps
Muscle relaxation
Helps you fall asleep
Promotes release of endorphins, a chemical in the brain that promotes feelings of physical and mental wellbeing
Reduces stress
Enhances self-esteem

Perhaps the best reason for practicing masturbation is that it just plain feels good. So go ahead, ditch your guilt and shame and make a date with yourself. You deserve it.

Kathleen Davis
		About the author:
		Kathleen Davis is a marketing executive turned freelance writer (the idea of ever having to take a corporate job again makes her nauseous). She has been freelancing now for over a decade and writes primarily for lifestyle magazines, business journals and local rags. She also teaches the occasional writing class to continuing education students. Kathleen is married with two young children. Her husband actively encourages her to continue contributing to DailySexScoop on a regular basis (he enjoys the fringe benefits of her research).