masturbation May Ease Menopause Symptoms, Landmark Study Suggests
Melbourne, Australia – A new study indicates masturbation could offer relief from bothersome menopause symptoms, challenging long-held stigmas and opening a potential new avenue for treatment. Published recently, teh research demonstrates a meaningful link between sexual activity – including solo sex – and improved well-being during perimenopause and menopause.
the study, conducted by researchers at La Trobe University in Australia, surveyed over 3,000 women aged 40-65 and found that regular masturbation was associated with reduced vaginal dryness, improved sleep, and decreased stress levels. Approximately 56% of perimenopausal women reported they would masturbate more frequently if recommended by their doctor to alleviate menopause symptoms.
Historically, conversations surrounding masturbation, especially among older women, have been limited by societal taboos. A North American study revealed nearly one in five women surveyed had never masturbated, a figure that rose among post-menopausal women, potentially reflecting evolving attitudes across generations. some women cited moral or religious objections. Other barriers include lack of desire, limited privacy, and physical challenges like loss of libido or reduced dexterity.
The research highlights a critical gap in healthcare, with almost all women in the American study reporting they had never discussed masturbation with a doctor. Despite this, the study emphasizes masturbation as a safe and accessible practice, described as “the safest sexual practice there is” by health officials.
“We don’t talk much about masturbation, especially among older women,” said Jennifer Power, Senior Principal Research Fellow at the Australian Center for Research into Sex, Health and Society. “But by demonstrating that most older women masturbate and that it may offer health benefits, this recent study is groundbreaking and valuable.”
While the study doesn’t guarantee symptom relief for all, researchers believe recommending masturbation poses no harm and could provide a simple, self-managed strategy for improving quality of life during menopause.
