1) How common is female masturbation?

Approximately 62%  of women  masturbate world-wide.

2) Does this have any side-effects?

Nothing negative can happen from masturbation, you can’t catch sexually transmitted infections, you can’t get pregnant nor are you going to fall ill. Also it  relaxes the whole body. Masturbation releases feel-good endorphins, which does everything from ease stress to relieve menstrual cramps and muscle tension. One recent study published in Sleep Medicine even found that masturbation can treat restless leg syndrome. It’s also a mini cardiac workout.

3) Why women tend to go for masturbation? Any observation you have made in your practice?

Masturbation is a normal, enjoyable and healthy experience. Women who want to explore their body, and get comfortable with their bodies self stimulate, women who are single and have no partner also masturbate, even many married women masturbate and have reported having stronger orgasm. It’s time to put the taboo subject of women and masturbation to bed. You do not have to have sex to be sexual, masturbation keeps you sexual. Masturbation gives a woman a sense of autonomy over her body and a better understanding of what gives her pleasure. Masturbation is a private, stress-free way to try different types of touch and pressure to see what helps one climax.

4) Why masturbation is still considered as a taboo for women?

Due to lack of societal permission of women being a sexual being  and  due to the instilled shame by the overall society, a general consciousness is formed that women are the desired and not the desiring. This misconception roots from an essentially patriarchal framework in our country. Also a woman touching herself is considered immoral,  these myths need to be recognized, questioned and busted at the earliest.

Make an Appointment with Dr. Sharmila Majumdar at the Sexual & Mental Health Clinic, Avis Hospital, Hyderabad.