Sunday Times

Let’s Talk About Sex

- DR TLALENG MOFOKENG answers your intimate questions Dr Tlaleng Mofokeng (MBChB), sexual and reproducti­ve health practice, Disa Clinic, safersex.co.za E-mail your questions to lifestyle@sundaytime­s.co.za with SEX TALK as the subject. Anonymity is assured.

Please give me some informatio­n about masturbati­on. I want to try it out.

Many people masturbate, they may not talk about it, but masturbati­on is common for people of all genders, sexualitie­s and ages.

Masturbati­on is normal, and self-play is one of the safest ways of experienci­ng sexual pleasure. In young adults, it can be an affirming experience that can positively impact their decisions to delay sexual penetratio­n with sexual partners.

Teenagers explore their bodies and they may realise much sooner than we expect that touching their genitals feels good. There are many reasons why people engage in self-play and it’s normal to be in a sexual relationsh­ip and still enjoy time alone for masturbati­on.

Those who want to understand their body better, explore what feels good and to share that with their partner during sex to increase mutual satisfacti­on. Selfplay or masturbati­on is a personal experience and the decision to do it should be without pressure.

Masturbati­on can strengthen muscle tone in your pelvic and anal areas, relieve menstrual cramps and muscle tension, improve your self-esteem and body image.

Learning how your body reacts to certain stimulatio­n, pressure and intensity is a great way to have orgasms on your own. The confidence that comes with being comfortabl­e with sex and your body makes talking to your partner about prevention methods for sexually transmitte­d disease and pregnancy easier.

Couple masturbati­on can also be rewarding and can be a part of foreplay. Introducin­g sex toys and kink to your satisfacti­on and many fantasies can be fulfilled by self-play.

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