Myths and Truths About Masturbation You Need to Know

The vast majority of people masturbate, especially men. However, masturbation has been a topic surrounded by taboos, prejudice, and misinformation for centuries , many of which persist even today. Fortunately, thanks to advances in sexual knowledge and better access to sexual education, we can now talk more openly about this practice. This allows us to debunk misconceptions that still exist and affirm its genuine benefits.

That's why in this article we'll address the main myths surrounding masturbation from a scientific perspective , providing you with solid arguments to reassure yourself and your friends that masturbation is one of the healthiest activities you can engage in, and there’s absolutely no reason to feel ashamed about it.

Is Masturbation Harmful to Your Health?

One of the most widespread myths claims that masturbation is bad for your health. Nothing could be further from the truth. Various studies have shown that masturbation is a completely natural activity, integral to healthy sexual development . In fact, it can help reduce stress, improve mood, and promote greater self-awareness of one's own body (Laumann et al., 1994).

Contrary to popular belief, there is no scientific evidence linking masturbation to physical or mental illnesses . On the contrary, if practiced moderately without interfering in daily life or social relationships, masturbation can actually support your overall well-being.

Does Frequent Masturbation Decrease Sexual Desire?

Many people believe that masturbating frequently can eventually exhaust sexual desire or reduce interest in sex with a partner. However, multiple studies have shown exactly the opposite. Masturbation not only does not decrease sexual desire, but it actually helps maintain it , especially for people experiencing periods of abstinence or stress.

Additionally, masturbation can be a useful tool for learning to manage arousal and improve sexual responsiveness , both individually and within relationships. What matters most is your attitude toward the practice rather than the frequency, since sexual desire isn't something that can be "used up," but rather it responds continuously to physical, psychological, and emotional stimuli.

Do Men Masturbate More Often Than Women?

Another widely-held myth is that masturbation is predominantly practiced by men. While studies do indicate that men tend to masturbate more frequently, this does not mean women don’t engage in it as well . In fact, an increasing number of women acknowledge masturbation as an important aspect of their sexual well-being.

To fully understand this, we must recognize that female masturbation remains more stigmatized due to cultural and educational factors. Nevertheless, it is equally beneficial and essential for sexual self-awareness , body acceptance, and improved sexual responsiveness in relationships with others. In fact, mutual masturbation can be a positive way to enrich sexuality within a couple.

Is Masturbation Addictive?

No, but there's an important nuance to clarify. While masturbation itself isn't addictive, it’s true that, like any pleasurable activity, it can become compulsive if used as a mechanism to avoid uncomfortable emotions, problems or general distress . Therefore, it's crucial to distinguish between a frequent habit that provides pleasure and a behavior that causes discomfort, guilt, or interferes with daily life.

How can we tell the difference? When masturbation becomes compulsive, it might signal an underlying issue , such as anxiety or low self-esteem. In such cases, consulting a professional is advisable to explore the root causes and identify healthier ways to manage emotions.

Does Masturbation Affect Sexual Performance with a Partner?

Related to the myth that frequent masturbation can reduce sexual desire, there’s also a belief that it negatively impacts sexual performance within a relationship. However, the opposite is true: masturbation doesn't harm intimacy with a partner—it complements it. Knowing your own body well helps clarify your preferences, limits, and desires . In fact, mutual masturbation can serve as a form of intimacy and sexual exploration within a relationship, enhancing sexual tension and arousal.

Additionally, not everyone experiences sexual desire at the same pace or frequency. Masturbation can be a way to manage these differences without putting undue pressure on your partner. Ultimately, masturbation isn't the problem— the real issues arise from a lack of communication and understanding within the relationship .

Conclusion: Normalize Masturbation

Masturbation is a completely normal, healthy, and beneficial sexual behavior when experienced without guilt or fear. However, it's essential that we break away from the myths surrounding it to develop a freer, more mindful, and pleasurable relationship with our sexuality. Therefore, we encourage you to view masturbation as another tool for wellness, self-awareness, and connection with yourself.

Talking openly about masturbation without prejudice is also a way to educate, prevent misinformation, and promote a freer, more diverse, and empathetic approach to sexuality.

Sources

• Laumann, E. O., Gagnon, J. H., Michael, R. T., & Michaels, S. (1994). The Social Organization of Sexuality: Sexual Practices in the United States. University of Chicago Press.

• Dekker, A., Schmidt, G., & Drosdowski, B. (2005). Self-pleasuring in the context of sexual health: A study among Dutch adults. Archives of Sexual Behavior, 34(3), 261–272.

• Derbyshire, K. L., & Grant, J. E. (2015). Compulsive sexual behavior: a review of the literature. Journal of behavioral addictions, 4(2), 37–43.  https://doi.org/10.1556/2006.4.2015.003  

• Brotto, L.A., & Heiman, J.R. (2007). Mindfulness in sex therapy: Applications for women with sexual difficulties following gynecologic cancer. Sexual and Relationship Therapy, 22, 11 - 3.