Masturbation, Its Importance and Benefits, Sexuality Coach Pallavi Barnwal Explains

Female Masturbation: The concept of masturbation refers to the sexual stimulation of one's own genitals for arousal or other forms of sexual pleasure. The stimulation can involve fingers or sex toys such as vibrators or even a combination of these. It is a natural and safe way to pleasure and also helps to release built-up tension. It is a common process for both the sexes. Several medical and psychological benefits have been attributed towards sexual activity in general and masturbation in particular.

Sexuality coach Pallavi Barnwal spoke with SheThePeople and explained the importance of masturbation. She further gave a detailed account of its benefits and why we need to shed the taboo around female masturbation.

Benefits of female masturbation

Barnwal said that Masturbation is a completely normal act. It is an absolutely natural and healthy activity. She then went on to explain its benefits saying that when you orgasm through masturbation, it leads to the release of many good hormones. These can be advantageous for the body in the following ways:

• They keep you healthy.
• Your immunity improves.
• You can sleep better.
• Your body gets pleasure.
• You become self-reliant.

Stigma around female masturbation

People look at masturbation as something shameful or embarrassing. Women tend to feel guilty if they masturbate because they think that it is not natural. The gender dichotomy in a society normalises masturbation for men. But it is not the same for women. There's the concept of 'purity' among women and that 'good' girls don't do it. Unlike men, women are distant from their intimate parts. This is so because there's no need for them to touch it at the first place. In case of men, it's a part of their biology to touch their penis even when they pee. Moving on, she said that women who masturbate are seen as 'lusty' but these are all external notions. The truth is that if we are experiencing pleasure, we shouldn't think that we cannot do it just because we are women. Moreover, it brings you closer to your body.

Masturbation helps in improving your sex life

Female masturbation is seen as sexually empowering for women. People tend to believe that they no longer need men to derive pleasure. This is also a misconception. Masturbation plays an important role in improving your sex life. It is essential to first be aware of our own body and accept it fully. If you are not feeling pleasure inside your body, you will be dependent on your partner for it. Your feedback is important for your partner. Only when you understand your body, you can communicate to your partner what you like about it. Therefore, masturbation is equally important for couples.

Barnwal also said that the idea of masturbation delivered through pornography is misleading. It only means that you able to touch and feel your body and genitals. You feel close to yourself through the process and you can make an internal connection with your body.

Suggested readings:

To Get Horny Is Human: Let's Shed The Stigma Around Female Pleasure

It's Not Just About Vagina: Why Clitoris Is Integral To Women’s Sexual Pleasure

&t=340s