How Does Masturbation Relate to Sexual Satisfaction?

What is it about?

Masturbation, whether solitary or with a partner, is considered a healthy sexual behavior that promotes self-exploration and sexual learning throughout life. Masturbation is notable for its therapeutic role in addressing some sexual difficulties. Despite the relevance of this behavior for sexual health and its involvement in different dimensions of sexual functioning, such as sexual desire, sexual arousal and orgasm, its relationship with sexual satisfaction has not been systematically examined. Therefore, in a systematic review conducted by Óscar Cervilla, Ana Álvarez-Muelas, and Juan Carlos Sierra the results of studies that have examined the relationship between masturbation (frequency or presence/absence), and sexual satisfaction were analysed. The results show that, in men, most studies show a negative relationship between solitary masturbation and sexual satisfaction, highlighting that masturbation could have a compensatory role for dissatisfaction with sexual relations. In women, there is greater heterogeneity in the findings. Although women may also masturbate because of sexual dissatisfaction, there is more evidence than men for a positive relationship between solitary masturbation and sexual satisfaction highlighting the empowering role that female masturbation may have.

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Photo by Tingey Injury Law Firm on Unsplash

Photo by Tingey Injury Law Firm on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This would support the complementary role of masturbation in women, as opposed to the compensatory role reported in men.

Perspectives