Masturbation is the sexual stimulation of the genitals, usually to the point of orgasm. The stimulation can be performed using the hands, fingers, everyday objects, or dedicated sex toys. Mutual masturbation, masturbation with a partner, can be an alternative to sexual intercourse.
Studies have found that masturbation is frequent in humans of both sexes and all ages, although there is variation. Various medical and psychological benefits have been attributed to a healthy attitude to sex in general and to masturbation in particular, and no causal relationship is known between masturbation and any form of mental or physical disorder. Acts of masturbation have been depicted in art worldwide since prehistory. While there was a period (from the late 18th to the early 20th century) when it was subject to medical censure and social conservatism, it is considered a normal part of healthy life today. It is commonly mentioned in popular music as well as on television, in films and in literature.
Animal masturbation has been observed in many species, both in the wild and in captivity.
Read more about Masturbation: Etymology, Terminology, Techniques, Mutual Masturbation, Frequency, Age, and Sex, Evolutionary Utility, In History and Society, In Other Animal Species
Famous quotes containing the word masturbation:
“Women are denied masturbation even more severely than men and that’s another method of control—they’re not taught to please themselves.... Most women—it takes them a while to warm up to the “situation” but once they get into it, I’m sure they’re going to get just as hooked as—well, everyone I know is!”
—Lydia Lunch (b. 1959)