Well + Good | 15 Health Benefits of Masturbating

In addition to giving you insight into what you like sexually, masturbating can help you uncover what you don’t like. It can also help you uncover information about your body.

You can learn so much about your pelvic floor and anatomy through masturbation,” says Dr. Jeffcoat.

For instance, if you learn that vaginal penetration hurts when you masturbate, you will have specific insights on where the hurt is, and you can bring those insights to a licensed pelvic health provider. Similarly, if you discover that you have a difficult time having an orgasm or can't have one at all, "[t]his could be due to a hormonal imbalance or simply weak or uncoordinated pelvic floor muscles,” says Dr. Jeffcoat. The strength and tone of your pelvic floor muscles play a role in determining sexual wellness and satisfaction. 

For pregnant and postpartum people, it's worth noting that a strong pelvic floor may support the likelihood of uncomplicated vaginal delivery.

Masturbating increases blood flow to the pelvic area,” says Dr. Jeffcoat.

And blood is full of healing agents that may help with some of the damage that occurred during delivery. It’s a stretch to call masturbating a postpartum solution. But it can give individuals an opportunity to become acquainted with their new body and get a hit of mood-boosting endorphins.

15 Health Benefits of Masturbating

1. Reduced anxiety and stress

2. Sleep support

3. Increased sexual pleasure

4. Better understanding of your pelvic floor

5. Improved health of your pelvic floor

6. Pain relief

7. Alleviated menstrual cramps

8. Fertility support

9. Reduction in pregnancy pain

10. Postpartum healing

11. Reduction in vaginal dryness

12. Increased heart health

13. Boosted immunity

14. Can teach you about your partner

15. An act of safe sex

Still looking for more information about the health benefits of masturbating? Click here to read the full article. 
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