Masturbation is, in fact, a basic part of good sexual functioning. The myths about going blind are most definitely untrue, and masturbation is a healthy part of growing up. If, however, you are just exploring sexuality, you may be wondering exactly how to masturbate (or how the “other half” masturbates). Keep in mind that, while you can read about the most common ways, there are many ways to enjoy sexual pleasure on your own and no “wrong way” to masturbate.
For men
The hand is certainly the most popular instrument used by men for masturbation: using the hand to rub the penis, usually to orgasm. Other alternatives include rubbing against the bedsheets, putting your penis inside a specially made, life-size synthetic doll, or using a special device that simulates a vagina.
Some men put a lubricant in their hand, on the shaft of their penis, or in/on the device they are using. Some men prefer to masturbate lying down, others standing up, and others don’t care what position they’re in.
Younger men sometimes practice group masturbation, nicknamed a circle jerk because the guys involved usually sit in a circle. Mutual masturbation between two young men is not all that uncommon either Although these activities may appear to have homosexual overtones, it really doesn’t for most of the males involved.
For women
The key to female masturbation is clitoral stimulation, but the ways women achieve clitoral stimulation vary. Certainly many use their hands, but many women prefer, or need, to use something other than their hands.
A common solution is the vibrator. Vibrators come in all sizes and shapes, including animal shapes or ones small enough to fit in a purse. Plug-in vibrators are the most powerful ones available; some women find them too powerful. Battery-operated vibrators are less expensive than the plug-in type, they’re more easily carried, and they offer more gentle vibrations — which can be a plus or a minus, depending on your particular needs.
The sensations vibrators offer can become addictive. No man, without a vibrator in hand, can achieve the same level of sensation that a vibrator can. If you plan on having sex with a man sometime in the future, then don’t make a habit out of using only a vibrator to have your orgasms.
If you want something inside your vagina while the vibrator is doing its job on the outside, you can use a dildo. A dildo is a phallic (penis-shaped) object, often made of silicone rubber, that you insert into your vagina to simulate the feelings that you would get from a real penis.
Another medium that seems to satisfy many women is flowing water. Many women masturbate by running the water in a bathtub, lying down in the tub, and placing their buttocks up against the end of the tub so the running water lands right on their clitorises. The temperature, strength of the flow, and so on can be adjusted to suit the individual. Hand-held showerheads, particularly the ones with massaging jets, are also very good. And, if you have access to a Jacuzzi, you can use the water jets in those.
