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Masturbation

Masturbation means giving yourself sexual pleasure by stimulating your own body, especially the vagina, clitoris, penis, nipples or anus.

You can also masturbate using objects, like a dildo or a vibrator (sex toys).

Feel free to experiment and figure out what you like.

Masturbation is not harmful. Many men and women masturbate. It is also OK not to masturbate.
You can also masturbate when you are in a relationship.

How to masturbate

You can masturbate in different ways. For example:

Men:

  • caressing your nipples, penis, scrotum and buttocks;
  • holding the penis and moving your hand back and forth;
  • varying the movements in speed, rhythm and intensity.

If you are circumcised, it is best to use a lubricant such as Vaseline or a special lubricant that does not contain oil (water-based). Never use Vaseline in combination with a condom. It could tear the condom.

A man masturbating.

Detail of the hand of a man holding his penis while he masturbates.

Detail of the hand of a man applying lubricant on his circumcised penis.

Women:

  • caressing the vulva, clitoris, labia, nipples, breasts, buttocks;
  • putting your fingers in your vagina and moving them around;
  • varying the movements in speed, rhythm and intensity.

A woman masturbating.

Detail of a woman masturbating example 1: putting your fingers in your vagina and moving them around

Detail of a woman masturbating example 2: caressing your vagina, clitoris and labia

Masturbating each other

Partners can also masturbate each other.

A woman masturbating a man.

A man masturbating a woman.

Subjects

Professionals

How to talk about sexual and sexual health with clients? How can Zanzu help with prevention, education, help and counseling? Find the answers here.

Help?

Need help? Find a healthcare provider.

About Zanzu

Zanzu was developed by Sensoa and BZgA. Rutgers, the Dutch expertise centre for sexual health and rights, has adapted Zanzu for use in the Netherlands.