Masturbation Reduces Menopause Symptoms, Study Finds
ADN
A recent study has found that masturbation may help reduce menopause-related symptoms. The research highlights potential benefits for women experiencing discomfort during this stage, pointing to self-pleasure as a possible way to ease menopausal challenges.
TL;DR
- Masturbation is rarely recommended for menopause symptoms.
- Many women report benefits from self-pleasure during menopause.
- Greater openness and information could improve patient care.
An Overlooked Ally Against Menopausal Symptoms
Amid ongoing conversations about how to navigate the often challenging terrain of menopause, a recent study by the Kinsey Institute at Indiana University suggests that the topic of self-pleasure—specifically, masturbation—remains largely on the fringes of medical advice. This research, published in the journal Menopause in November 2025, invites a fresh perspective on strategies women employ to alleviate symptoms associated with this life stage.
A Spectrum of Strategies, Mixed Results
Analyzing responses from over 1,100 American women aged 40 to 65, researchers catalogued an array of coping methods. Surprisingly, although exercise (25%), relaxation techniques (24%), and dietary supplements (19%) are regularly cited, only 14% of participants reported turning to masturbation as a way to manage their symptoms. An even more striking finding: nearly one in three respondents said they made no specific effort to address the discomforts of menopause, while just 4% were undergoing prescribed hormonal therapy.
The diversity in approaches yields varying degrees of relief. Approximately half the surveyed women in perimenopause described at least one positive effect resulting from their chosen strategy. Several factors explain these outcomes:
- 43% reported a mood boost;
- 13% experienced increased sexual desire;
- 13% enjoyed improved sleep quality.
Additionally, some participants mentioned side benefits such as enhanced vaginal lubrication and reduced pain, though these were less commonly noted.
The Weight of Social Taboos and Generational Gaps
Digging deeper into the data reveals generational divides: women in perimenopause are far more likely than those already postmenopausal to have engaged in masturbation within the past year. Nevertheless, about one in five admitted never having tried it—a figure that climbs with age. The conversation remains fraught with stigma; only 7% of perimenopausal and 4% of menopausal patients recalled ever receiving professional medical advice on this subject.
Attitudes may be shifting, however. Among those who do not currently practice self-pleasure, two-thirds said they might consider it if informed about its potential advantages. Intriguingly, over half would be willing to try masturbation if recommended directly by a healthcare provider.
Towards Better Information and Support
The authors argue that it’s time for clinicians to incorporate discussions about autoeroticism into routine care for patients confronting menopause. They emphasize individualization but highlight the potential value—still rarely explored—of broadening medical guidance beyond conventional treatments. Such an approach could offer women additional tools for navigating a profoundly transformative period in their lives.