Mutual Masturbation: Between Pleasure and Myth

Often, self-pleasure (known as masturbation) may be the first sexual act that a person discovers when discovering their sexual desire in general. It is a sexual act that is enjoyable and sexually satisfying, and it is also easy to practice: it is a solo act that can be practiced without restrictions due to place, time, lack of a partner, or lack of preparation with great equipment.

Unfortunately, because sex in general is not a comfortable topic to talk about in many societies, self-pleasure, as one of the various forms of sexual practices, is one of the practices that is surrounded by ideas, judgments, and misconceptions that are widely spread among adolescents and adults alike.

What about an act such as mutual masturbation, which may be uncomfortable for some people because another person is present during the act.

Therefore, in this article, we shed light on mutual masturbation between partners, by providing some correct information about common misconceptions about it. We will also provide some advice on how this form of sexual expression may contribute to a satisfying sexual relationship based on exploration and relaxation.

What is mutual masturbation?

Partners can explore their desires and enhance their intimacy and emotional connection by practicing mutual masturbation, by stroking their own or each other’s genitals at the same time. They may do this using hands or sex toys.

Unfortunately, common misconceptions surrounding mutual masturbation have led to confusion among many.

For example, it is common to think that people who masturbate will reduce their enjoyment of sex with their partner due to the habit of masturbating alone.

It is also common to think that partners will not be able to enjoy any other forms of sexual activity, and will not be able to reach orgasm, if they continue to practice mutual masturbation.

But in reality, these ideas are not true; people can enjoy sex even when they are practicing self-pleasure or when they are practicing mutual masturbation.

There are also other ideas that need to be discussed regarding mutual masturbation,

1- It is said that mutual masturbation is only for those who are unable to perform penetration.

In fact, mutual masturbation can be an alternative for those who are unable or unwilling to engage in penetration.

But it can also be one of a variety of sexual practices that partners enjoy, including penetration.

Mutual masturbation itself can be a pleasurable sexual activity for some people, regardless of their ability to engage in other forms of sex.

2- Mutual masturbation is said to not be considered “real” sex.

This depends on the definition of “real” sex; for many, penetration may be the only sexual practice that is considered real sex.

But in reality, this belief may stand in the way of partners enjoying a variety of sexual practices, through which they explore their own bodies and each other’s bodies and the places of pleasure in them.

Viewing sex as being practiced for pleasure will make the definition of sex not limited to a specific practice, but rather, it will expand to include a variety of activities that achieve pleasure between compatible partners.

Mutual masturbation is one such activity, as it is a sexual practice that involves foreplay and sexual stimulation, and involves the possibility of reaching orgasm.

3- Mutual masturbation is said to be practiced only by inexperienced or shy individuals.

In fact, people of all levels of experience and comfort with their bodies and sexuality can enjoy mutual masturbation.

It can also be a way to explore new sensations, get to know their partner’s body, or simply be a form of sexual expression.

4- Mutual masturbation is said to not lead to orgasm.

However, mutual masturbation can lead to orgasm for many individuals; by engaging in self-care or partner-care.

5- Engaging in mutual masturbation is said to mean that both partners are dissatisfied with their sex life.

However, as with any sexual activity, partners may choose to engage in self- or mutual masturbation for a variety of reasons, including sexual pleasure, sexual intercourse, or as a way to diversify their sexual practices.