Published on March 08, 2021
Words by Vella Team
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Let's clear the air about something: female masturbation is normal, healthy and fun.
It doesn't mean your partner isn't or can't sexually satisfy you. It isn't an activity reserved just for men. And it is a big part of your sex life whether you're active with a partner or not.
The simple truth: solo sex is good sex.
But there are other benefits, too. Self-love eases pain, promotes happiness and healing — even helps you fall asleep faster. What's not to love about that?
When you orgasm, the brain blasts an array of feel-good hormones: oxytocin, dopamine, endorphins and prolactin. These pleasure chemicals calm you and set the stage for a good night's rest. Given the choice between spending all kinds of money on apps, watches and other sleep tech, or orgasms to improve sleep… well, we'd pick orgasms every night (and every nap).
Speaking of those mood-elevating orgasm hormones, they help lower stress, boost your mood and relieve pain. Worth noting, a famous sexologist (yes, that's a thing) Beverly Whipple, Ph.D. found that during orgasm your pain tolerance nearly doubles. Apparently, orgasms help with period cramping and migraines, too.
And, a study in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that female orgasm boosts estrogen levels, making hair and skin healthier. Free and natural beauty enhancers. Yes, please!
Remember the Sex and the City scene where Charlotte looks at her vagina for the first time? Is your vagina an unsolved mystery? Solo sex helps you get to know your body better. You can focus on what you like and don't like. Female masturbation also promotes a positive body image. Being comfortable in your skin and knowing your pleasure preferences can make sex conversations with a partner easier – even if that partner is you! Honest conversation with yourself about your own sexuality is underrated.
Nothing puts the brakes on sex like a UTI. Luckily, masturbation can lessen the frequency of urinary tract infections. How? During arousal, the vagina "tents" or expands, helping fluid circulate better. The body flushes unwanted bacteria, which lowers your risk of infection. The same goes for preventing cervical infections.
Consider masturbation a light form of exercise. Like taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Yes, you'll burn a handful of calories, but the real benefit is lowered blood pressure. When you get worked up, the genital muscles tense and then release when you orgasm, which increases blood flow and eases pressure.
Science called it. Solo sex is no risk and all reward. Love yourself and your body will love you back more.
"Solo sex is no risk and all reward. Love yourself and your body will love you back more."
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