Is masturbation healthy?
In fact, it's one of the best and easiest ways to get to know your body—and offers a range of health benefits.
Jan, 2026
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Whether you're single or in a relationship, you shouldn’t shy away from self-pleasure. And that’s not just because it feels good.
Masturbation can provide a variety of health benefits, too. A little alone time may improve intimacy, help with falling asleep, and even lower the risk of prostate cancer.
What’s not to love? Here’s what to know about masturbation, plus tips for optimizing your experience.
Written byOlivia DeLong.
Medically reviewed byAnn Wendling, MD, MPH.
Sources: Cleveland Clinic. Masturbation. October 25 + 8
- Cleveland Clinic. Masturbation. October 25, 2022.
- Planned Parenthood. Masturbation. Accessed August 4, 2025.
- SutterHealth.org. Benefits of Masturbation. 2021. Accessed August 4, 2025.
- Hassan M, Flanagan TW, et al. Reduction of Prostate Cancer Risk: Role of Frequent Ejaculation-Associated Mechanisms. Cancers (Basel). 2025 Feb 28;17(5):843.
- J Rider, K Wilson, et al. Ejaculation Frequency and Risk of Prostate Cancer: Updated Results with an Additional Decade of Follow-up. European Urology. December 2016. 70(6):974-982.
- Jian Z, Ye D, et al. Sexual Activity and Risk of Prostate Cancer: A Dose-Response Meta-Analysis. J Sex Med. 2018;15(9):1300-1309.
- Wehrli FSV, Bodenmann GJ, et al Exploring the Role of Masturbation as a Coping Strategy in Women. Int J Sex Health. 2024 Apr 29;36(3):237-256.
- Texas Tech University. RISE Blog | Self-Love: A Guide to Safe Masturbation for Everyone. February 17, 2023.
- Northwestern University. Student Affairs Center for Awareness, Response, and Education: Masturbation. Accessed August 4, 2025.
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