The health benefits of masturbating

But you only masturbate when you're single, right? Well, we hope not. Giving yourself a little hand is actually very healthy. And everything that is healthy should of course be done regularly. Think of it as a little makeover in between. What does it have a magical effect on? Read along.

First, let's get the facts and figures straight. If you think you're the only one taking a moment for yourself: think again. 90 percent of women masturbate. And if all the positive effects don't convince the remaining ten percent, then I don't know what will.

1) You masturbate away all the stress
A day ahead that makes you tense before it even starts? Meditating works, but a little masturbation does too. You get to choose how you want to start your morning. An orgasm releases the oxytocin hormone, which is the holy grail of relaxation.

2) It is pain-relieving
Forget the paracetamol, ibuprofen, or Aleve, because an orgasm works wonders against pain. An orgasm ensures that you produce (there it is again) oxytocin as well as endorphins. These two substances have a positive effect on how well you tolerate pain. So you know what to do when you're doubled over with cramps during your period.

3) It's good for your sleep
Do you sleep poorly? Masturbate more. All those released substances make you sleepy. The fantastic vicious cycle of this story is that you also have more sex when you sleep better. I only see benefits.

4) Masturbating is almost a sport
Hanging out as a soloist helps train your pelvic muscles. You can go to Pilates, which is of course great fun and social, but there's also another workout waiting for you at home. All those trained muscles reduce the chance of incontinence and have a positive effect on cramps during your period. Just think of it as a precaution.

5) A better self-image
In addition to all those physical health benefits, masturbating and having an orgasm also pays off mentally. By occasionally playing with yourself, your brain connects everything that feels good to your own body. This ensures that you think more positively about yourself.

A girl laughing while holding a cup with a building in the background Solo sex is about as healthy as having a romp with a potential partner, so the choice is of course yours.

P.S.: People who masturbate regularly also have more sex with others, research shows.