Sexuality is a complex and lifelong aspect of human adult life, influenced by a range of factors including family, culture, education, and personal beliefs. Understanding sexual health is vital for overall well-being, and for women, this includes knowing their bodies and how they experience orgasm. Despite its importance, female sexuality, including masturbation and orgasm, is often surrounded by myths and taboos, particularly in certain cultures.

This study explores the connection between masturbation habits and sexual health in young women in western Turkey. By examining how often and how long these women masturbate, the study aims to understand its impact on their sexual function and sexual health knowledge, helping to shed light on an often misunderstood and private aspect of female sexuality.

The study involved 921 young, single women aged 18-25 from western Turkey who were Muslim university students. The researchers used an online survey to gather information about the participants’ sexual health, focusing on how often and how long they masturbate.

Participants had to meet specific criteria, such as being heterosexual, sexually active, and not having any health conditions affecting their libido. The survey included questions about their demographics, masturbation habits, and sexual health literacy using two standardized scales: the Sexual Health Literacy Scale (SHLS) and the Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale (ASEX). Statistical analyses were performed to explore the relationships between these factors. Ethical approval was obtained, and all participants gave informed consent before completing the survey.

The average age of the women involved in the study was 21 years, most of whom lived in cities and had families. The results showed that the women masturbated about 5 times a month for an average of 3.5 minutes. The majority of participants felt satisfied after masturbation, with many reporting that it improved sleep and made them feel good.

Interestingly, those who masturbated frequently and had higher sexual health literacy scores were less likely to experience sexual dysfunction. The study also found that using a vibrator, watching pornography, or masturbating in specific locations like a chair or at certain times were linked to different levels of sexual health literacy and sexual function. Overall, these behaviors were generally associated with higher sexual health literacy but had mixed effects on sexual function. For example, vibrator use during masturbation was associated with higher sexual function scores, but watching pornography was associated with moderate sexual function scores.

In conclusion, this study highlights that increased frequency and duration of masturbation in young women are linked to better sexual function and higher sexual health literacy. Understanding one’s body and engaging in regular masturbation can positively impact sexual health and the ability to achieve orgasm.

These findings suggest the importance of promoting sexual health literacy among women, particularly through educational programs and materials tailored to their needs. Health centers should consider incorporating sexual health literacy education into their services.

Nevertheless, further research is needed to explore female sexuality across different cultures, as cultural factors may influence attitudes and behaviors related to masturbation and sexual health. Still, this study’s findings underscore the importance of addressing these topics openly to improve women’s overall sexual well-being.

References:

• Yıldız Karaahmet, A., & Bilgiç, F. Ş. (2024). Relationship between the frequency and duration of masturbation and the sexual health literacy and sexual function of women in western Turkey: A cross-sectional study. The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 21(8), 676–682. https://doi.org/10.1093/jsxmed/qdae059