Everything You’ve Been Told About Masturbation Might Be Wrong (Image: iStock)
Let’s talk about the solo act that still makes people shift awkwardly in their seats: masturbation. Yep, that word — the one that causes a ripple of side-eyes at dinner tables and awkward giggles in school corridors. Despite being one of the most natural forms of sexual expression, it remains shrouded in stigma, secrecy, and a whole bunch of outdated nonsense.
Here’s the reality: masturbation isn’t some taboo sin or modern invention. People have been getting curious with themselves since, well, forever. Long before the term “masturbation” was coined in the 1700s, ancient Egyptians and Greeks were already depicting self-pleasure in their art and stories. And yet, in 2025, we're still wrestling with absurd myths that sound like they came from a Victorian handbook on moral panic.
It’s time to clear the air — with a little humor, a dash of science, and a lot of honesty.
1. “It Will Shrink Your Genitals”
Ah, the infamous “shrinkage” scare. This myth has haunted locker rooms and awkward teen conversations for generations. But here’s the thing: your genitals are not getting smaller just because you’re enjoying some alone time. There’s no scientific evidence linking masturbation to permanent changes in penis or clitoral size.
If anything, regular sexual activity, including self-stimulation, promotes healthy blood flow and keeps everything in good working order. Overdo it with too much force or friction, and sure — you might feel a little sore or irritated. But that’s not shrinkage. That’s your body politely asking you to ease up a bit.
2. “It Destroys Your Sex Life”
Somehow, the idea took hold that if you’re flying solo, it means there’s something wrong with your partnered sex life. But masturbation and sex with a partner aren’t in competition — they’re totally different experiences. One’s a quick snack, the other’s a full-course meal. Both have their place.
In fact, research shows that people who masturbate regularly tend to have better sexual self-awareness, reduced stress, and more satisfying intimacy with their partners. It can help you understand what feels good, which makes communication in bed way easier. So no, it won’t “ruin” your sex life — if anything, it might just upgrade it.
3. “It Causes Infertility”
Let’s just put this one to bed: masturbation does not make you infertile. Men don’t “run out” of sperm — the body produces millions every day. And for women, self-pleasure has absolutely no impact on ovulation, egg quality, or reproductive ability.
In fact, some studies suggest regular ejaculation might be good for prostate health. So unless you’re trying to conceive in that very moment, there’s no need to worry about solo play affecting your fertility.
4. “It Messes with Your Mental Health”
The roots of this myth go deep — from old religious guilt to outdated medical advice and a few really questionable school lectures. But modern psychology tells a different story. Masturbation, in itself, doesn’t cause anxiety, depression, or emotional issues.
In fact, it’s often associated with stress relief, better sleep, and improved mood. The real mental health issue? The shame that society attaches to a totally normal human behavior. That guilt can eat away at your self-esteem — but the act itself? It’s harmless.
5. “It Means You’re a Sex Addict”
Let’s be real: enjoying something regularly doesn’t mean you’re addicted to it. Whether it’s coffee, scrolling Instagram, or yes — masturbation — frequency alone isn’t the problem. It’s about impact.
If your solo time is getting in the way of your daily life, relationships, or responsibilities, it might be worth checking in with yourself. But if you’re doing it because it feels good, relieves stress, or helps you sleep better — you’re just human. Not a sex addict.
6. “It Causes Hairy Hands (and Other Weird Stuff)”
We’ve all heard this one at some point, usually in a hushed voice or as a joke that no one fully understood. Hairy palms? Blindness? Acne outbreaks? None of these are real consequences of masturbation.
These old myths were designed to scare kids away from exploring their bodies — and they’ve lingered way too long. Your hormones aren’t thrown into chaos just because you’re touching yourself. What masturbation can lead to? Better body confidence, sexual awareness, and fewer myths clouding your judgment.
Bonus Myth: “If You Masturbate, You’ll Cheat”
Nope. Masturbation doesn’t mean you’re dissatisfied with your partner or heading toward infidelity. People in happy, healthy relationships masturbate all the time — it's normal, and in some cases, it can even be something couples explore together.
Masturbation isn’t a betrayal. It’s personal time. Think of it like journaling — just a little more intimate.
Masturbation is normal. It’s not dangerous, dirty, or morally wrong. It’s not going to wreck your sex life, damage your body, or signal something’s "off" with your relationship. What is harmful? The shame, silence, and wildly inaccurate myths that still surround it.
So the next time someone throws one of these tired old tales your way, feel free to set them straight — with science, wit, and maybe just a wink. Because nothing busts a myth faster than truth… except maybe a well-timed orgasm.
