For a long time, female masturbation was surrounded by silence, shame and many prejudices.

Ideas still exist such as “if a woman masturbates, it is because her partner does not satisfy her”, or that a woman who enjoys exploring her own pleasure necessarily has a higher sex drive than “normal”.

None of this makes sense.

A woman can have a fantastic sex life with her partner and still masturbate. One does not replace the other.

Masturbation is simply a way of exploring your own body, discovering sensations and enjoying pleasure — alone or even as part of a couple's sex life.

And it can bring some interesting benefits.

1. It helps you get to know your own body better

Perhaps this is one of the greatest benefits of masturbation.

How can we explain to someone what gives us pleasure if we do not even know ourselves?

Exploring your body allows you to discover where you like to be touched, what kind of pressure you prefer, which movements are most pleasurable and what simply does not work for you.

This self-knowledge can make it much easier to communicate your desires and preferences to your partner.

And this can result in a more satisfying sex life.

2. It can help you relax and relieve stress

There are days when we just want to switch off.

Sexual arousal and orgasm are associated with physiological changes and the release of substances linked to pleasure, relaxation and a sense of well-being.

That is why some women feel calmer and more relaxed after masturbating.

And you do not even have to reach orgasm.

Pleasure does not always need to have a goal.

3. It can help you sleep better

Have you ever felt that wonderful sense of relaxation after an orgasm?

You are not the only one.

For some people, masturbating before bed can help reduce the tension built up during the day and make it easier to relax.

It is not a treatment for insomnia, of course, but it can be part of a pleasant bedtime routine.

4. It can help relieve menstrual cramps

Here is a particularly interesting benefit.

During orgasm, there are rhythmic contractions of the muscles in the pelvic region, followed by relaxation. Some women report that this combination, together with the general sense of well-being brought on by orgasm, helps to temporarily relieve menstrual cramps.

For others, however, it may make no difference.

Every body responds differently.

5. It allows you to discover different types of pleasure

Hands, fingers, pressure, movements, fantasies, external stimulation or intimate toys...

There are countless ways to explore pleasure.

And one of the great advantages of being alone is that you can experiment without rushing and without worrying about satisfying someone else.

You may realise, for example, that you prefer very gentle stimulation or, on the contrary, something more intense. That certain movements work better. Or you may discover sensations you had never experienced before.

It is your body. Explore it at your own pace.

6. It can improve your sex life as a couple

Masturbation and sex with a partner are not competitors.

In fact, they can complement each other very well.

The better you know what gives you pleasure, the more easily you can guide your partner:

“Like that.”

“Slower.”

“A little more pressure.”

“Do not stop.”

In addition, masturbation can also be part of intimacy as a couple. Some people enjoy masturbating in their partner's presence or exploring toys together.

The important thing is that both of you feel comfortable.

7. It can contribute to a more positive relationship with pleasure

Masturbation can also simply be a moment dedicated to ourselves.

No expectations. No performance. No obligation to reach orgasm.

Exploring pleasure can help some women feel more comfortable with their own bodies and view sexuality more naturally.

And there is no “right” frequency.

Some women masturbate frequently, others occasionally, and others simply do not feel like it.

All are perfectly valid.
 

What about the pelvic floor muscles?

During orgasm, the pelvic floor muscles contract, but that does not mean masturbation replaces specific exercises for these muscles.

If the aim is to consciously work the pelvic floor, Kegel exercises can be an option. The most important thing is to learn how to identify and exercise these muscles correctly.

Discover our guide to Kegel exercises here.

With or without toys?

Either way.

You do not need to use a toy to enjoy masturbation. But vibrators, external stimulators and other intimate wellness products can allow you to experience different intensities, movements and types of stimulation.

And no, using a vibrator does not mean that you will no longer be able to feel pleasure without it.

It is simply another way of getting to know what you like.

Masturbating is normal. Not feeling like it is too.

This is perhaps the most important message.

We do not need to turn female masturbation into an obligation just because we have finally started talking about it without shame.

Masturbate because you want to, not because someone says you “should”.

Alone or with someone else. With your hands or with toys. With orgasm or simply for the pleasure of the moment.

Your pleasure deserves space too.

Get to know your body. Explore your pleasure. Enjoy.

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