How Often Should You Masturbate (& Can You Masturbate Too Much)? I Asked a Doctor

Whether you do it with a favorite sex toy, with audio erotica or even mindfully, masturbation is, for many people, a regular part of life. But how regular are we talking? Aka, how often should you be engaging in self-pleasure? And can you masturbate too much? To learn more, I asked Dr. Gowri Rocco, MD.

Dr. Gowri Rocco, MD, is double board-certified in Family Medicine and in Regenerative, Anti-Aging and Functional Medicine. Known by her patients as The Wellness Warrior, she’s been practicing medicine for more than 20 years and is the Founder and President of Optimum Wellness & Longevity in Corona, California.

Masturbation, Dr. Rocco tells me, is a normal and healthy part of human sexuality. “It can provide several physical and mental health benefits, but questions about frequency and effects can vary greatly from one person to another,” she adds. That means there isn’t a specific number of times that is recommended for everyone—it depends on individual desires and circumstances. “What's important is that it feels like a healthy and enjoyable part of your life.”

How often you should masturbate depends on your personal libido, lifestyle and how it fits within your sexual health and overall wellbeing. “It should not interfere with daily responsibilities or personal relationships,” Dr. Rocco says. “Listening to your body and considering how you feel both physically and emotionally after masturbating can help you determine what's right for you.”

You can. Dr. Rocco tells me that masturbating too much can be a concern if it interferes with daily life, responsibilities and interpersonal relationships, or causes physical harm (like irritation or injury). “If it becomes compulsive and starts to restrict or negatively impact other areas of life, it might be a good idea to consult a healthcare provider or therapist.”

For men, the frequency can vary widely, and is influenced by age, relationship status and personal libido. Dr. Rocco says, “Studies suggest many men masturbate several times a week, though this can vary widely from one individual to another.”

Similar to men, the frequency among women varies, though Dr. Rocco notes, “Some surveys indicate that women might masturbate less frequently on average than men, but this can differ greatly among individuals.”

 Masturbation has several health benefits, including:

• Stress relief: “Masturbating releases endorphins, which are hormones that induce feelings of pleasure and well-being, acting as natural stress relievers.”
• Improved quality of life: “Orgasms can increase an individual's self-awareness and comfort with their body, potentially boosting confidence and self-esteem.”
• Better sleep: “The relaxation following orgasm can improve sleep quality, which is crucial for overall health.”