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.

The post Facts about Female Masturbation appeared first on Dr. Sharmila Majumdar - Sexologist Psychoanalyst in Hyderabad.

1.  Exercise
   Exercise is one of your major weapons against less libido. Make sure to exercise on a regular basis as it helps in improving circulation in the body. Do various exercises such as squats and push-ups to improve your strength and endurance. It is known to increase production of sex hormones and endorphins in the body.
2.  Limit smoking
   Smoking cigarettes causes complications in the body as it is known to be a vasoconstrictor. The blood vessels tend to narrow, thus leading to damage in the arteries and veins. The veins of the penis may be damaged leading to sexual problems.
3. Stress reduction
   You may adopt various techniques such as meditation and yoga to reduce stress levels in the body. Stress raises cortisol levels in the body which can hamper your sex life.
4.  Sleep
   You need to sleep adequately and sleep sound as sleeping deficiency has been linked with erectile dysfunction. Sleep also revitalizes your body and releases beneficial hormones in the body.
5. Restrict alcohol consumption
   It is important that you restrict alcohol consumption as alcohol in excess may lead to obesity and other related disorders. It may also lead to mental health problems such as anxiety which can impair sexual drive.
6.  Cut down on coffee
   Coffee is a known vasoconstrictor as it tends to narrow your blood vessels. It limits blood flow, thus may reduce your sex drive. Make sure you limit coffee intake to 1 or 2 cups of coffee to avoid the complications.
7.  Diet
   Include plenty of vegetables and fruits in your diet to get the necessary nutrients in your diet. Vegetables such as cabbage and broccoli contain antioxidants that protect your body against free radical damage. Include oily fish such as salmon that is rich in omega 3 fatty acids because they help in improving sexual drive.

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