Masturbation is a normal, natural activity that according to 2020 Global Self Pleasure Report, around 84% of all adults have done at least once. However, despite this, masturbation is still generally seen as something that is difficult to talk about with others. While it is still a taboo subject, it should be known that masturbation is very beneficial for both your physical and mental health in many ways. Specifically, masturbation may help with getting a better quality of sleep at night. In this article, we’ll be taking a brief look at the overall benefits of masturbation, then taking a closer look at exactly how masturbation can help with your sleep.

WHY MASTURBATING IS BENEFICIAL



As mentioned above, masturbation has many benefits for your overall self-care. Research and anecdotal reports suggest that sexual stimulation, such as the stimulation received through masturbation, may help you in the following ways:

It’s the last point that we will be taking a more in-depth look at below. Exactly how could masturbation help in getting a good night's sleep?

REASONS FOR MASTURBATING BEFORE BED



Masturbation may be able to help you sleep due to the following reasons: 

  • The release of neurochemicals that aid you to drift off easier. The release of the chemicals oxytocin and prolactin following sexual activity, one study shows, helps contribute to better sleep as both of them are key factors in getting a good night's rest. 
  • Masturbating before bed can be a convenient time for many, with it being a time of the day when you are free of other tasks and responsibilities. As such, the act of masturbating, whether you achieve an orgasm or not, may help you to relax enough to inhibit your cortisol levels. Less cortisol means less stress and may mean a night of better sleep.
  • Some people may experience a higher libido during the evening. One study shows that, with female participants especially, their sex drive tended to peak between 6 PM and midnight. If this is the case for you personally, taking the time to unwind with some self-pleasure may help with getting some shut-eye. 

While it is not guaranteed that it will help with everyone’s sleep, it is worth a try to see if this helps you to personally relax.

SUMMARY



Masturbation in general can give you various physical and mental benefits over time through the release of various feel-good hormones. There are certain advantages to putting aside the time to masturbate before bed that may aid in getting a better night's sleep, so why not try it and see if it works for you.