Numerous misconceptions surround masturbation, such as the unfounded beliefs that it can lead to blindness, palm hair growth, impotence, or mental illness.
Masturbation is, in fact, a normal and healthy sexual behavior, devoid of negative physical or mental health consequences.
Certified sex therapist and sexologist, Jenni Skyler, explains, “The unfortunate myth about masturbation causing blindness, acne, or other health hazards is entirely untrue.” She attributes this myth to historical attempts to control the population through fear of sexual arousal leading to societal chaos.
Get Instantly Update By: Joining Our Whatapps and Telegram Channel
Let’s delve deeper into the subject of masturbation to uncover the truth and dispel the myths and misconceptions surrounding this natural practice.
Elaborating on masturbation:
Masturbation entails self-induced sexual stimulation, and it constitutes a completely normal and healthy facet of human sexuality embraced by individuals of all genders, ages, and backgrounds. Research demonstrates that the majority of people engage in masturbation at some point in their lives, using it as a vital tool for self-discovery and sexual development.
Debunking the myths:
Here are some of the prevalent myths about masturbation:
1. **Masturbation causes blindness and memory loss:** There is no scientific evidence supporting the notion that masturbation can induce blindness. This idea likely stemmed from an antiquated belief that sexual activity yields detrimental health consequences. In reality, masturbation is a safe and healthy means of exploring one’s body and deriving sexual pleasure. Likewise, there is no credible scientific connection between masturbation and memory loss, with some research suggesting it may have positive effects on cognitive function through endorphin release, which reduces stress.
2. **Masturbation can lead to erectile dysfunction (ED):** Some worry that frequent masturbation might cause ED. The truth is that masturbation is a normal and healthy component of human sexual behavior and is unrelated to ED. If someone experiences issues with sexual function, it’s essential to consult a doctor, as ED has no correlation with masturbation.
3. **Masturbation affects fertility:** A common myth is that masturbation can influence fertility. However, male and female reproductive systems are entirely separate from the sexual pleasure experienced during masturbation, making pleasuring oneself irrelevant to one’s ability to conceive.
Other myths about masturbation include its perceived danger, the misconception that it should never be done with a partner, the idea that masturbating with a vibrator will harm one’s genitals, and notions that it is dirty, immoral, or damaging to marriages, as well as a form of cheating or a cause of mental illness.
Benefits of masturbation:
According to sex therapist Jenni Skyler, masturbation offers numerous benefits and “provides a rich opportunity to establish an intimate connection with yourself and your body.”
Some of the advantages include:
– Release of endorphins, acting as natural stress relievers.
– Deep relaxation and improved sleep quality.
– Alleviation of menstrual cramps and other types of pain due to the release of endorphins.
– Enhanced bodily awareness and sexual function.
Skyler emphasizes the importance of masturbation in cultivating sexual awareness, stating, “If we don’t know about our own pleasure spots, how can we guide a partner to find them?”
The myth that masturbation can cause blindness and memory loss, alongside other misconceptions, lacks any foundation in scientific reality. Instead, it is a normal and natural component of human sexuality.