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Aunt Flo comes knocking at our doors every month (sigh), but even before she arrives, we are filled with all kinds of emotions. But why? Because the dreaded menstrual cramps come along as uninvited guests. We’ve tried all kinds of hacks — taken the help of hot water bags, popped pills, and even sipped on herbal teas. But alas, we aren’t as satisfied! But what if we tell you the secret to turn your pain into pleasure? Ladies, it’s masturbation!
As per a study titled ‘Masturbation: The Natural Painkiller’, 90 percent of the participants (there were 341) said self-pleasure helped them to deal with period cramps. Furthermore, 70 percent also revealed that regular masturbation had an impact on the intensity of their period.
But why does it really work? Ob-gyn Dr Aruna Kalra shares all the details with HealthShots. “When we have sex or even masturbate, our body releases chemicals like oxytocin and dopamine that act as painkillers, and help us deal with menstrual cramps. When you orgasm, the blood rushes to the uterus and helps relieve the cramps. It also helps us get rid of stress and even releases endorphins in the body, thereby enhancing relaxation. It even helps you sleep better,” she adds.
Also Read: Masturbation is good for you, don’t let anyone tell you otherwise
It is all the play of endorphins that are produced by your pituitary gland and nervous system, which then help to relieve period cramps. In fact, when you masturbate or have sex during your period, your tolerance for pain increases.
“Serotonin and dopamine are mood-enhancing hormones, which are released while having an orgasm. These are effective in curing menstrual cramps. While having an orgasm, blood flow increases and pain tolerance goes up, so ultimately, it makes us feel happy, relaxed, warm, and sleepy,” says Dr Kalra.
Moreover, masturbation also helps in dealing with morning sickness, migraine pain, stress relief, increased productivity, and decreased tension.
Also Read: Try these 4 soothing teas to deal with painful menstrual cramps
If you are comfortable with period sex with your partner, you could go for that too. Try using a menstrual disc, while making out or masturbating.
And if you haven’t tried masturbating because of the stigma attached to it, throw away the veil of shame, and explore your body. It will also make your periods a happy one!
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