Masturbation

From ArticleWorld

Masturbation involves the stimulation of the genitals, usually with one’s hands, in order to achieve sexual excitement, orgasm and sexual gratification. Masturbation is usually a solo activity although the term “mutual masturbation” is used to define a sexual act whereby two individuals perform masturbation on each other. Masturbation is one type of auto-eroticism, which is defined as using any means, including sex toys or non-genital stimulation, to stimulate oneself sexually. Masturbation is a common sexual practice; in fact, some individuals can only achieve orgasm through this mechanism.

Historical Perspective

Scientists have discovered cave-paintings depicting masturbation before the invention of the written word. It appears from antiquities that both males and females engaged in the practice.

• In ancient Egypt, masturbation by a god was considered a magical and sacred act.
• Ancient Greeks considered masturbation a positive thing that reduced the incidence of sexual frustration.
• Then the Old Testament was written which taught the evils and sinfulness of masturbation. This led to its prohibition in Christian, Mormon and Jewish religions.
• Even Islamic teachings regard masturbation as an offensive act.
• Some Protestant faiths have since broken away from these beliefs and are more tolerant of the behavior.
• Even the medical community historically considered masturbation a dangerous behavior and encouraged parents to caution their children against engaging in it.

An individual today is generally free to accept or reject the teachings of their religion, to subscribe to parental advice or abide by social norms, all of which participate in the decision one must make to either engage in masturbation or not. It is estimated that most females and nearly all males have engaged in masturbation at least once. While children have been known to masturbate, the majority of young men and women begin upon reaching puberty, when the sexual hormones have reached adult levels.

Techniques

Men and women, obviously, engage in masturbation differently.

• Women most often stimulate their clitoris, although vaginal and anal stimulation can occur as well. Because the nipples have sexual sensitivity, they may be stimulated as well. Women who masturbate can use a sexual toy, pornography, sexual fantasy or external forms of lubrication to facilitate their experience.
• Men, on the other hand, generally masturbate by stroking their penis until they achieve an erection and, eventually, an orgasm. Less commonly, a male may masturbate using a technique called “pillow rubbing” in which they lie on their stomach and rub the penis against a soft object. The prostate gland, too, has sexual sensitivity and can be stimulated through the anus or from the outside, by pressing on the area of skin between the scrotum and the rectum (the perineum). A man’s nipples are also sexually sensitive.

Health Effects

Healthcare providers today now see masturbation as a healthy practice that, in some cases, can improve depression and bring about a sense of well-being. Because masturbation involves just one individual, there is no risk of pregnancy or transmission of disease making it the healthiest sexual activity one can do. Contrary to myths and old tradition, there are no known illnesses or conditions that one can develop as a result of masturbation, even if done excessively. In men, however, excessive masturbation can reduce the volume of the ejaculate and the sperm count, but only on a temporary basis.