Masturbation refers to sexual stimulation, especially of one's own genitals (self masturbation), often to the point of orgasm. The stimulation can be performed manually, by other types of bodily contact (short of sexual intercourse), by use of objects or tools, or by some combination of these methods.

Ways of masturbating common to members of both sexes include pressing or rubbing the genital area, either with the fingers or against an object such as a pillow; inserting fingers or an object into the anus (see anal masturbation); and stimulating the penis or vulva with vibrators, which may also be inserted into the vagina or anus. Members of both sexes may also enjoy touching, rubbing, or pinching the nipples or other erogenous zones while masturbating. Both sexes sometimes apply lubricating substances to intensify sensation.

Female masturbation techniques include a woman stroking or rubbing her vulva, especially her clitoris, with her index and/or middle fingers. Sometimes one or more fingers may be inserted into the vagina to repeatedly stroke its frontal wall where the g-spot is located. Masturbation aids such as a vibrator, dildo or Ben Wa balls can also be used to stimulate the vagina and clitoris. Many women caress their breasts or stimulate a nipple with the free hand, if these are receptive areas for sexual stimulation. Anal stimulation is also enjoyed by some. Lubrication is sometimes used during masturbation, especially when penetration is involved, but this is not universal and many women find their natural lubrication sufficient.

The most common male masturbation technique is simply to hold the penis with a loose fist and then to move the hand up and down the shaft. This type of stimulation is typically all that is required to achieve orgasm and ejaculation. The speed of the hand motion will vary from person to person, although it is not uncommon for the speed to increase as ejaculation nears and for it to decrease during the ejaculation itself.

Mutual masturbation is practiced by people of all sexual orientations. When used as an alternative to penile-vaginal penetration, the goal may be to preserve virginity or to prevent pregnancy. Some people choose it as an alternative to casual sex because it results in sexual satisfaction without actual sex. For some people, masturbating with friends helps lift the stigma they feel surrounding the act. This helps them develop their orgasm, increase its pleasure, and inspires them to masturbate on a more frequent basis.

It's common knowledge that men masturbate. And really we all know that women do, too. So why are we still coy about the subject?
The truth is that there's little reason for women not to be open about masturbation: it's a healthy, natural part of our sexuality. If you don't do it, then you should, because you're missing out! Fun aside, mastering masturbation has other benefits. It allows you to educate yourself about your own body and in turn become an expert about your own sexuality. Not only will you find out exactly what turns you on, but you can use this knowledge to improve your sex life with your partner.

In order to masturbate successfully, it helps to understand the four stages of sexual arousal. These are: Excitement - your body feels increasingly excited. Plateau - your breathing and pulse rate increases and skin becomes flushed. Orgasm - rhythmic contractions through your body. Resolution - your body getting back to normal

Don't worry if you don't achieve orgasm at first - just keep trying. Aim to increase the amount of time you masturbate for and the frequency. With practice you'll be able to regularly achieve all four stages of arousal. So if you really don't know where to start feel free to browse around our web site and learn more about masturbation and your sexuality.