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While masturbation is often encouraged as a form of self care, what you may not realise is that is also an effective form of pain relief. Yep, science says so.
One study found that women’s pain tolerance increased by 40% when the clitoris was “self-stimulated”, and the tolerance increased to 74% when said stimulation resulted in orgasm.
“During masturbation, endorphins and other chemicals are released and these can reduce pain,” Ness Cooper, a sex and relationships coach and clinical sexologist, explains. “These react with receptors within the brain and change how we experience pain whilst they are released during the act of masturbation and orgasm.”
So why is this? As fun as sex is, with others and with yourself, why is it that it can work as effectively – in some cases – as other forms of pain relief?
“Just like how some medications work better for some people and conditions, the chemical responses from masturbation will be the same, meaning that some individuals may find it acts as better pain relief than others experience,” Ness says.
GLAMOUR has broken down how masturbation can help to alleviate pain in several areas of your life.
How masturbation can help alleviate migraine pain
Migraines affect 20% of women, according to the NHS, and treating it is tricky. It's been found, though, that masturbation can help to alleviate symptoms.“Some people find prescription opioid-based medicines can reduce their headaches and even migraines,” Ness says. “The endorphins and oxytocin released by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland [in the brain] during masturbation activate the opioid receptors in the brain and have the same effect as some pain medications.” Mind blown, in more ways than one.
“Another hormone released during masturbation is estrogen,” she adds. “Low levels of estrogen can increase the chances of headaches and migraines.”
Masturbation also can help minimise pain from menstrual cramps
Period pain can be uncomfortable and, at worst, unbearable. But the effect masturbation has on that part of our body can help to make the pain slightly more bearable.“Orgasm and masturbation increase blood flow to the uterus and pelvic area can help relax the muscles, reducing menstrual spasms and cramps,” Ness explains. “This is on top of releasing all the feel-good chemicals during sexual self-pleasure that reduce pain.”
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Dull aches and muscle pain could also be treated through masturbation
According to Ness, your pain threshold when it comes to inflammation or dull pain can be increased through masturbation because it increases your testosterone levels.“Some studies suggest that testosterone can help people manage pain levels better, meaning people can withstand higher pain thresholds,” she explains. "Testosterone may help reduce inflammation in the body, and explain why certain physical aches and pains feel lesser after masturbation or orgasm.
Serotonin, a feel-good hormone, is also released during and after masturbation, which can help us deal with pain mentally, giving us a positive outlook. “Serotonin helps regulate pain,” Ness says.
“Due to masturbation having a feel-good-effect on the body, this too can make us have a more positive outlook on pain and lead to motivation in engaging in other regular pain reduction and regulation activities, such as welling positive about going to the gym.”
Masturbation may also help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety
A hormone called oxytocin is released by masturbation, and contributes to how relaxed our body feels, as well as reducing discomfort from tight muscles. It helps a lot with how our mind is working, which is a great help if you're suffering with your mental health.Ness explains: “Oxytocin can also help you think clearer, which can help you understand emotions better and help reduce anxiety and depression.”
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