Masturbation is one of the most natural things humans do—yet it’s also one of the most misunderstood. For centuries, people have whispered about it, made jokes, or treated it like something shameful. The result? Generations of myths, half-truths, and outright lies.
It’s time to set the record straight. Here are 10 masturbation myths you’ve probably heard—and the real truth you need to know.
1. Masturbation Causes Blindness
This is probably the most famous (and ridiculous) myth of them all. For decades, parents and teachers used this scare tactic to keep kids from touching themselves.
The Truth: Masturbation does not cause blindness. There’s zero scientific evidence for this claim. In fact, the only thing masturbation might cause is a better mood and better sleep.
2. Only Men Masturbate
Society often paints masturbation as something only guys do. Women’s pleasure has historically been ignored or hidden, which makes many people believe women don’t—or shouldn’t—masturbate.
The Truth: Women masturbate too—and always have. Studies show that both men and women enjoy self-pleasure, and many women say it helps them explore their sexuality, reduce stress, and improve sex with partners.
3. Masturbation Is a Sin in All Religions
One reason masturbation has been demonized is religion. Many believe it’s condemned across all faiths.
The Truth: Religious views are mixed. Some Christian and Islamic leaders teach against it, while others see it as a natural outlet. Hinduism and Buddhism often treat sexuality as part of human experience, not something dirty. The Bible never directly says masturbation is a sin, and interpretations vary widely.
4. Masturbation Lowers Testosterone or Ruins Fertility
Some men worry that ejaculating too often will drain testosterone levels or hurt fertility.
The Truth: Masturbation doesn’t lower testosterone. In fact, regular ejaculation can help keep sperm healthy and the reproductive system functioning normally. Fertility issues are far more linked to medical conditions, age, or lifestyle factors—not masturbation.
5. Masturbation Is Addictive by Nature
You’ve probably heard people say, “If you start, you won’t be able to stop!”
The Truth: Masturbation is not inherently addictive. It’s a normal behavior. Like anything pleasurable—food, social media, or shopping—it can become compulsive if used as the only way to cope with stress or loneliness. But for most people, it’s just one healthy part of life.
6. Masturbation Causes Health Problems
Some cultures claim that masturbation causes everything from hair loss to acne to weakness.
The Truth: None of this is true. Science shows masturbation has health benefits, including:
- Stress relief
- Better sleep
- Improved mood
- Stronger pelvic floor muscles
- Reduced risk of prostate cancer in men
The only “health issue” might be temporary soreness if you overdo it.
7. You Should Outgrow Masturbation Once You’re Married
Another common belief is that once you’re in a committed relationship, masturbation is off the table.
The Truth: Masturbation doesn’t stop being useful just because you’re partnered. In fact, many couples incorporate self-pleasure into their sex lives. It can help partners understand what feels good, add spice to foreplay, or provide intimacy when distance or stress gets in the way.
8. Masturbation Kills Your Sex Drive
Some worry that masturbating too often will make them less interested in sex with a partner.
The Truth: Moderate masturbation doesn’t lower libido—in fact, it can increase it by keeping you connected to your desires. The only time it becomes an issue is if solo play fully replaces intimacy with a partner.
9. Masturbation Always Involves Porn
With the rise of internet porn, many assume masturbation always goes hand-in-hand with adult content.
The Truth: Masturbation is about you. While porn is one option, plenty of people masturbate without it—using imagination, fantasy, sex toys, or simple body exploration. Masturbating without porn can actually help you become more mindful and connected to your body.
10. Masturbation Is Shameful
The most damaging myth of all is that masturbation is dirty, immoral, or embarrassing.
The Truth: Masturbation is normal. It’s one of the first ways we explore pleasure as humans, and it stays with us throughout life. Shame around self-pleasure is a cultural construct, not a universal truth.
So, Is Masturbation Good or Bad?
The reality is that masturbation is neither “good” nor “bad” by itself—it’s about how you use it in your life. When approached with balance, it can be a source of:
- Pleasure
- Relaxation
- Body awareness
- Emotional release
The only time it becomes a problem is if it starts to replace real intimacy, is tied to harmful porn habits, or becomes the only coping strategy for emotional struggles.
Final Thoughts
Masturbation myths have kept people feeling guilty and confused for centuries. But the truth is simple: self-pleasure is natural, safe, and healthy. It doesn’t make you dirty, weak, or sinful.
The next time you hear someone repeat one of these lies—like “masturbation is a sin” or “it causes health problems”—you’ll know better.
Because your body is yours, and learning to enjoy it without shame is one of the most empowering things you can do.
