Despite movement towards sexual liberation in the last decade or so, sexual ignorance still exists in large parts of our society. In the absence of a formal and comprehensive system of sex education, for youngsters, learning about sex largely remains a trial and error process, which is often long and painful.

In this section we explore an act that provides sexual liberation to all of us, both male and females, but yet is considered a taboo in many parts of the society – Masturbation.

Masturbation refers to sexual stimulation, especially of one’s own genitals often to the point of orgasm. The stimulation can be performed manually or by use of objects or tools. Masturbation is a common form of autoeroticism, although masturbation with a partner (mutual masturbation) is also common. 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, and/or stimulating the penis or vulva with electric vibrators, which may also be inserted into the vagina or anus. Members of both sexes may also enjoy touching and rubbing other erogenous zones (which have already been discussed in detail under ‘Sex..know more..’) while masturbating. Reading or viewing pronography, or recalling some of the ‘hot’ memories are often used to stimulate yourself . Men and women may masturbate until they are close to orgasm, stop for a while to reduce excitement, and then resume masturbating. They may repeat this cycle multiple times. This “stop and go” build-up can achieve even stronger orgasms.

Frequency of masturbation is determined by many factors, e.g., sexual habits and arousal, peer influences, health and one’s attitude to masturbation formed by culture. Masturbation is becoming accepted as a healthy practice and safe method for sharing pleasure without some of the dangers that can accompany intercourse. Masturbation also relieves depresstion, stress and leads to a higher sense of self-worth. Masturbation can also be particularly useful in relationships where one partner wants more sex than the other – in which case masturbation provides a balancing effect and thus a more harmonious relationship.