A recent study published in the journal *Menopause* indicates that approximately one in ten perimenopausal and menopausal women engage in masturbation as a means to alleviate their symptoms. Conducted by researchers at the Kinsey Institute at Indiana University, the study has garnered significant attention due to its exploration of a relatively unconventional approach to managing menopause.
The research involved a representative sample of 1,178 women aged between 40 and 65. Participants were surveyed to determine their experiences with menopause and perimenopause, defined by changes in menstrual cycles. Women who reported having at least one period in the previous year were categorized as perimenopausal, while those who had not had a period for a year or more were classified as menopausal.
Among the women surveyed, about four in five reported having ever masturbated. Of these, around 20 percent indicated that masturbation provided some relief from menopause symptoms. For perimenopausal women, the most notable improvements were observed in areas such as sleep difficulties and irritability. For menopausal women, masturbation appeared to help alleviate vaginal pain, bloating, and painful urination.
Understanding the Health Benefits
These findings align with prior research suggesting that masturbation leading to orgasm may help reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and alleviate vaginal discomfort. While the exact mechanisms through which masturbation may relieve menopause symptoms remain unclear, researchers propose that the relaxation effects associated with orgasm, alongside the release of endorphins, may enhance mood, promote better sleep, and lessen pain. Additionally, sexual stimulation can lead to increased vaginal lubrication and improved blood flow in the genital region, potentially supporting vaginal health.
Despite the emerging evidence, there remains a notable stigma surrounding masturbation, particularly among women. Although societal views have shifted, many women still associate masturbation with feelings of shame and often refrain from discussing their experiences openly. This stigma has hindered clinical research on the benefits of masturbation, especially as a remedy for menopause symptoms.
The study revealed that women were significantly more likely to manage menopause symptoms through evidence-based strategies such as physical activity, diet, and stress reduction, rather than through masturbation. However, many participants may not have considered masturbation as a potential relief method, indicating a gap in awareness.
Barriers to Acceptance
While masturbation is generally viewed as a safe and accessible option for symptom relief, it is not universally embraced. The study indicated that nearly one in five women had never engaged in masturbation, a statistic more pronounced among older, menopausal women. This disparity may reflect generational shifts in attitudes toward sexual health and personal pleasure. Some participants cited moral or religious objections to masturbation, while others faced practical barriers such as lack of privacy or personal time.
Additionally, older women may encounter physical challenges, including decreased libido or physical limitations that make masturbation difficult. The study highlighted a significant communication gap, with nearly all women reporting they had never discussed masturbation with a healthcare provider. Nevertheless, many expressed openness to such conversations; about 56 percent of perimenopausal women indicated they would consider masturbating more frequently to alleviate menopause symptoms if recommended by their doctor.
In conclusion, while the idea of masturbation as a potential strategy for managing menopause symptoms may be novel, it merits consideration as an accessible option for some women. Although it may not be suitable for everyone, promoting awareness around its possible health benefits could empower women to explore various avenues for relief. The study underscores the importance of addressing the stigma surrounding masturbation and fostering open dialogues about women’s health needs.
Jennifer Power, Principal Research Fellow at the Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society at La Trobe University, emphasizes the value of this research in broadening the understanding of sexual health among older women. By highlighting that many women do engage in masturbation and that it may offer health benefits, this study contributes important insights to the ongoing conversation about menopause and women’s overall well-being.
