Her Campus Logo Her Campus Logo

5 Reasons Women Shouldn’t Be Ashamed to Masturbate

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Minnesota chapter.

Masturbation has always been an acceptable habit for men. It’s either frowned upon, ignored or encouraged as “men just being men.” However, when the conversation shifts towards women masturbating, the tone shifts as well. It’s highly discouraged; people get awkward, uncomfortable and quiet. But that shouldn’t be the case. Masturbation is a form of expressing one’s sexuality. It’s perfectly healthy and not something anyone should be ashamed of. Here are just a few reasons that college women shouldn’t be ashamed to masturbate…

Masturbation allows you to explore your own sexuality.

You can discover what turns you on and makes you tick. If you become more comfortable with yourself, when you get intimate with a partner, you’ll have more confidence to communicate your needs and desires. Not convinced yet? Masturbation can help you reach orgasm better and faster during sex!

It’s a great stress reliever.

In fact, it’s one of the best stress relievers. Your brain is only required to focus on one thing, and a rush of dopamine can decrease stress and improve your mood. It can also reduce period cramps.

It allows you to let go of the shame that’s been attached to female sexuality for centuries.

Female masturbation has been deemed shameful for years. But why should it? Men masturbate twice as much and they don’t get the same flack. There’s no shame in exploring your sexuality. It isn’t shameful to want to experience pleasure.

Masturbation has been linked to a higher self-esteem.

You gain confidence with your body and aren’t afraid to flaunt it. If you physically feel good, you can mentally feel good. An orgasm or two can make you feel real sexy, and you are girl! Flaunt it, be proud of it!

More people do it than you think, so what do you have to lose? 

Your needs aren’t somehow out of the ordinary. Don’t assume it’s going to end in fireworks the first time either. Just like with a partner, you need to get to know yourself. Don’t be afraid to laugh a little too! You might feel silly at first, but if you give yourself a little bit of time and patience, you might enjoy it more than you think!

Masturbation is fun, it’s healthy, and it’s going to make you feel great. But on top of that, it’s a way to reclaim your sexuality, and to declare that you’re in charge of it!