Woody Allen once said: “Don't knock masturbation. It’s sex with someone you love." Although we don’t talk openly about it, masturbation is not a matter of shame. It’s a healthy way to explore your sexuality and express self-love. Whether one is sexually active or not, it’s normal for one to masturbate. People do it for different reasons – either to bust stress or to release sexual tension. Many masturbate to feel good. Irrespective of your reasons, there are many benefits of masturbation. On International Masturbation Day 2019, let’s explore the top 6 healthy reasons to express some healthy self-love!

1. Masturbation Releases Stress

One of the biggest reasons to masturbate is stress release. Many masturbate after a hard day’s work to channel their energy healthily. It also releases feel-good hormones like dopamine and oxytocin. A relaxation hormone prolactin is released during orgasm.

2. Masturbation Refreshes the Semen Stock

Ejaculation helps in removing old semen and generating new sperm cells in the testicles. Masturbation ensures that the older cells are expelled and newer, healthier ones are created.

3. Masturbation Reduces Risk of Prostate Cancer

Study shows that masturbation reduces the risk of prostate cancer. Men who masturbate more than five times a week were shown to have reduced risk of prostate cancer. Masturbation Is Healthy! Here Are the Best Times to Masturbate to Make It Even Healthier.

4. Masturbation Helps Improve Self Esteem

Although it’s disputed, masturbation is said to improve the way you feel about yourself. Whether you are single or committed, masturbation helps you understand your sexual needs better.

5. Masturbation Improves Your Sex Life

Far from affecting it, masturbation improves your sex life. According to a 2015 survey, 57 percent of women who masturbate experience sexual satisfaction with their partners. 9 Reasons Why You Should Masturbate Regularly!

6. Masturbation Can Relive Period Cramps

Masturbation can also come in handy when you are having a hard time during periods. Uterine contractions that you experience during orgasms can help relieve period pains by flushing the blood out faster.

No matter what your reason, do indulge in a little bit of self-love now and then. However, like any good thing in the world, the excess can be harmful. Even as you enjoy masturbation, make sure you don’t get addicted.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 07, 2019 08:00 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).