This study’s depressing views on masturbation will make you reach for those sex toys

Turning a taboo subject like masturbation on its head is not without its challenges, and a new study finds that there is still plenty of work to be done. If we're trying to learn how to boost our sex lives and seek ultimate pleasure, self-love is the first place to start. 

According to findings from Womanizer, a sustainable sex toy brand, men are masturbating two-and-a-half times more than women. The company's International Equal Masturbation Day survey of 14,500 participants also indicated that nearly 40% of people in the UK believe masturbation is more socially acceptable for men. Just as notable, nearly a third of those involved in the survey believe there is a negative connotation surrounding female pleasure. And to that we have two words: Hell no. 

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Let's take a step back: women are just as entitled to orgasms as men. Not only is it a way to become attuned to your body and your desires, the sensation even has its health benefits. (Hello immune system boost!) 

Plus, Dr. Blair, a clinical psychologist and co-founder of the Lover (opens in new tab) app, insists that the secret to having really good sex with a partner is mastering the art of solo sex first. Why would that be any more important for one gender vs another?

Earlier this year, Womanizer also discovered that the masturbation gap is beginning to close, but women are still hesitant to explore their desires. Fortunately, the best app-controlled vibrators and other game-changing gadgets, like the bendable G-spot vibrator, are here to make sure women are getting exactly what they want and deserve. 

Even though your tan is likely to fade soon, keep that after sex glow going with a little "me" time—reversing the stigma will depend on it!