Why masturbation is good for you

Masturbation is completely normal and healthy – regardless of age, gender, or relationship status. Studies even show that regular masturbation can have positive effects on both body and mind.

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Stress reduction & relaxation

During orgasm, endorphins and oxytocin are released – hormones that reduce stress and promote a feeling of well-being. Ideal for unwinding after a long day.

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Better sleep

The relaxation that follows orgasm can make it easier to fall asleep. Many people consciously use masturbation as a natural sleep aid – completely without side effects.

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Get to know your body better

People who masturbate regularly get to know their own bodies better – what feels good, but also what is "normal". This helps to notice changes earlier.

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Pelvic floor exercises

In women, masturbation can strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. In men, there is evidence that regular ejaculation could reduce the risk of prostate cancer.

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Better sex

Knowing what you like allows you to communicate it. Masturbation can help you explore your own sexuality and be more confident later on during partnered sex.

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100% STI-safe (solo)

Pure solo masturbation without contact with other people or their bodily fluids does not transmit STIs.

4 myths about masturbation – and what's really true

Many myths and half-truths surround masturbation. Time to clear up the most common misconceptions.

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"Masturbation makes you blind/infertile"

False. These claims date back to the 18th century and have no scientific basis whatsoever. Masturbation has no negative effects on eyesight or fertility.

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"Too much masturbation is harmful"

Partly. There's no fixed "upper limit." It only becomes problematic when masturbation becomes compulsive or interferes with daily life. Otherwise, the rule is: as often as you like.

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"Those who masturbate don't have a partner"

False. People in happy relationships also masturbate – alone or together. Masturbation is not a competitor to partnered sex, but a complement.

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"Women masturbate less than men"

Outdated. Studies show that more and more women are talking openly about masturbation. The differences are shrinking – and were often more culturally than biologically determined.

When an STI test is still useful

Solo masturbation does not transmit STIs. However, very few people exclusively engage in solo sex. Here are situations in which a test makes sense – even if you are "only" masturbating.

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After a change of partner

Before you become intimate with a new person – or after a relationship has ended – an STI test provides clarity about your current status.

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After unprotected sex

Even if it was only "once": After unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex, a test after 2-4 weeks is advisable – depending on the pathogen, even later.

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Shared sex toys

Sharing sex toys with partners – without cleaning them in between or using condoms – can theoretically transmit STIs. A test provides peace of mind.

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In case of changes or symptoms

Unusual discharge, itching, burning, or skin changes in the genital area? A test can determine if an infection is present – ​​even if it has been a while since your last sexual encounter.

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Regularly as a routine

Anyone who is sexually active – even with breaks in between – should get tested regularly. Many STIs are asymptomatic and would otherwise go undetected.

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If you wish to have children

Untreated STIs such as chlamydia can cause infertility. Comprehensive testing for both partners is recommended before a planned pregnancy.

Good to know:

Many STIs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, or HPV, often present without symptoms . This means you can be infected without realizing it – and pass the infection on to future partners. Regular testing is therefore part of responsible sexual behavior.

Use sex toys hygienically

Sex toys can enhance solo pleasure – provided they are properly cared for. Here are the most important tips for hygienic handling of vibrators, dildos, and the like.

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Clean before and after each use

Wash toys with warm water and mild soap or a special toy cleaner. This also applies if you use them alone – otherwise, bacteria can multiply.

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Pay attention to the material

High-quality materials such as silicone, stainless steel, or glass are non-porous and can be thoroughly cleaned. Cheap plastics can harbor bacteria in micropores.

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Condoms when using shared sex toys

Anyone sharing sex toys with a partner should use a fresh condom for each person – or thoroughly clean the toy in between uses. This prevents transmission.

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Choosing the right lubricant

Do not use silicone-based lubricant with silicone toys – it can damage the material. Water-based lubricants are suitable for all materials.

Transmissible pathogens in shared sex toys:

  • Chlamydia – can survive briefly on surfaces
  • Gonorrhea – transmission possible via moist surfaces
  • HPV – relatively stable on surfaces
  • Herpes – contagious when lesions are visible
  • Trichomonads – can survive on damp objects
  • Fungal infections – also transmissible

Self-examination: Knowing your own body

Masturbation offers the opportunity to regularly "check" your own body. Knowing how everything normally feels and looks allows you to notice changes earlier.

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Testicle check (for men)

Regularly examine your testicles – ideally in the shower when the skin is relaxed. Look for lumps, hardening, or changes in size. Testicular cancer is highly treatable if detected early.

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Vulva check (for women)

Examine your vulva regularly with a mirror. Pay attention to changes such as redness, unusual spots, blisters, or growths. This way you can detect changes early.

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Pay attention to discharge

Changes in the color, consistency, or odor of vaginal discharge can indicate an infection. Some discharge is normal, but significant changes should be checked by a doctor.

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Take warning signs seriously

Burning, itching, pain, blisters, or unusual growths – all these are reasons to seek medical advice. If detected early, most problems can be treated effectively.

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Variant: Vaginal swab & dried blood

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Discreetly from home

Sample collection at home, shipping in a prepaid envelope, results digitally in your inbox DoctorBox account. No waiting times, full control.

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Certified laboratory analysis

The samples are analyzed in an accredited German laboratory. You will receive reliable results. Results on the same level as at the doctor's office.

The STI Pro tests on:

HIV
Hepatitis B & C
syphilis
Chlamydia
Gonorrhea
Mycoplasmas (M. genitalium & M. hominis)
Trichomonads
Ureaplasma (U. urealyticum & U. parvum)

Conclusion: Self-love is self-care.

Masturbation is healthy, normal, and the safest form of sexuality. It helps you get to know your body, reduce stress, and experience your sexuality in a self-determined way – with or without a partner.

Self-care also includes paying attention to your sexual health. Those who have partnered sex occasionally should get tested regularly – not out of fear, but out of responsibility for themselves and others.

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Do you have any questions?

Please contact us at:

Phone: +49 30 34045468
Email: heimtest@doctorbox.eu