5 ways masturbating more often can strengthen your relationship

Today’s the last day of May, which means it’s our final day to celebrate International Masturbation Month. You probably think of masturbating as a solo act that brings you a heap of glowing benefits. While masturbating is all about you and your needs, that doesn’t mean its positive effects don’t extend beyond you.

Taking care of yourself sexually on the regular can actually do wonders for your sex life with someone else.

Whether it’s someone you’ve just started dating or a long-time partner, you might be surprised at how much your masturbation game can affect your vibe between the sheets.

Here are five ways masturbating more often can improve your relationship with your SO.

1You become more in tune with your own sexual needs

You can’t really know what you like in bed unless you find out for yourself. When you set aside some time to masturbate and figure out what gets you to orgasm, you can have a much more fulfilling sexual experience when you’re with your SO. You’ll be able to tell them what turns you on and what doesn’t, and they’ll be able to satisfy you in whatever way you need. Suddenly sex is better for the both of you—and you’ll be having much more of it.

2You’re more sexually satisfied in general

It’s not rocket science. If you’re having orgasms on the regular, whether from your own doing or a partner’s, you’re probably more sexually satisfied than the average human being. This can only have a good effect on the rest of your life, because remember the last time you felt like you weren’t getting laid enough? You didn’t exactly feel happy and connected with your partner, did you?

Sexual frustration does no good for your relationship, so keep masturbating. The two of you will be happier for it.

3Having orgasms makes you a better communicator

Hear us out, because we know this sounds a little far-fetched. When you orgasm, you immediately experience a rush of feel-good chemicals, like dopamine and oxytocin. These hormones make you feel more social and they make it easier for you to connect with the people around you. These chemicals also strengthen your problem-solving and communication skills, which improve your ability to talk to your partner about the things that are most important to you. All this healthy chatting will bring you closer together.

4You’ll feel more confident and sure of yourself

Not only do you get a physical glow when you have an orgasm, but you also feel more sure of yourself. The endorphins your body naturally releases when you masturbate (and exercise) give you an instant boost of energy and self-confidence. You’ll be less insecure around your partner, and you might even be more likely to try new things with them, keeping the fire alive between the two of you for a long time.

5The more orgasms you have, the closer you feel to your SO

Let’s talk about those happy chemicals again — dopamine and oxytocin. They’re both known to put you in a really good mood, but the latter is also known as the “bonding” or “love” hormone. So when your brain is full of oxytocin, you’ll be more inclined to cuddle with your SO, have pillow talk, and get it on more often. Sounds like everyone’s winning all around.