It’s totally normal to masturbate (touch yourself for sexual pleasure) whether you’re sexually active with other people or not. Masturbation even has health benefits, like reducing stress. Masturbation is more common among people in relationships compared to those who are single. Masturbation therefore appears to be a complement to an active sex life rather than a substitute for having one.
Plenty of research has shown the health benefits of masturbation. Masturbation can:
- Release sexual tension
- Reduce stress
- Help you sleep better
- Improve your self-esteem and body image
- Help treat sexual problems
- Relieve menstrual cramps and muscle tension
- Strengthen muscle tone in your pelvic and anal areas
- Reduces risk of prostate cancer
Lots of people in relationships masturbate. Masturbating when you’re in a relationship doesn’t mean your partner isn’t satisfying you. It’s a great way to figure out what you like and what makes you have an orgasm. Then you can show or tell your partner what feels good. Talking about sex with your partner can make it more fun and can even make your relationship stronger. Some people masturbate at the same time as their partner. It’s a way to be sexual together without having any risk of STDs or pregnancy.