Masturbation is a common practice that remains shrouded in myths and misconceptions. The popular belief is that only men masturbate but the fact is that masturbation is practiced both by men and women and in all age groups. Here we are listing the common masturbation myths and related scientific facts.

 

Myth #1: Masturbation is not actual sex. Only frustrated people masturbate.

 

Fact: Sexual pleasure during masturbation is similar to that experienced during “actual sex”, i.e. sex with a partner. Sexual health experts say that people who masturbate are more likely to enjoy a good sex life with a partner.

 

Myth #2: Masturbation can cause acne, hair fall and even blindness.

 

Fact: Masturbation has nothing to do with any of these diseases.

 

Myth #3: Masturbation causes growth of hair on palms.

 

Fact: No amount of masturbation will cause hair growth on your palms.

 

Myth #4: The stock of semen in the body is limited. If you waste it by masturbating, you will soon run out of it.

 

Fact: Semen is not stocked but produced in the body throughout a man’s life. It will continue be produced as long as the reproductive organs are healthy.

 

Myth #5: Those who masturbate will never have children.

 

Fact: If this had any element of truth in it, most couples would be childless. Probably, I and you wouldn’t be born either.

 

Myth #6: Those who have a partner, or those who are married, do not masturbate.

 

Fact: Many couples masturbate mutually. Some masturbate when their partner is ill or away.

 

Myth #7: Masturbation can stunt your growth.

 

Fact: No, it cannot. If you feel there is something wrong with your growth, consult a doctor as there may be a treatable underlying cause. Stopping masturbation will not help.

 

Myth #8: Masturbation causes impotence.

 

Fact: No. Masturbation cannot lead to impotence. Consult a doctor if you are experiencing impotence for counseling and treatment.

 

Myth #9: Masturbation leads to psychological problems.        

 

Fact: Masturbation does not cause any physical or psychological problems. Anxiety and fear caused by myths about masturbation can cause psychological problems.

 

Myth #10: Only young people masturbate. It’s abnormal if you are middle-aged and you still masturbate.

 

Fact: Some people do masturbate in old age. It is less common in the elderly but certainly not abnormal.