Why Do I Feel Guilty After Masturbating? Let’s Break It Down
It’s still Masturbation Month, and we’re not shying away from the hard stuff.
Let’s talk about something loads of people feel but don’t always admit: masturbation guilt.
If you've ever finished a solo session and immediately thought, “Ugh, why did I do that?” - you’re not alone. That wave of guilt after touching yourself is more common than most realise, and no, it doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with you.
So let’s unpack it properly.
How Common Is Masturbation Guilt?
A 2022 YouGov study found that about 35% of women and 20% of men experience masturbation guilt.
And if you were raised with strict religious or cultural rules around sex, those numbers go even higher.
This guilt isn’t something we’re born with - it’s something we’re taught. Messages that say solo play is “wrong,” “dirty,” or “shameful” often come from outside influences. Family. Religion. Culture. Media. And when no one talks openly about self-pleasure benefits, it becomes easy to internalise those messages.
But here’s the truth: masturbation is normal.
It’s healthy. It’s private. And it’s yours.
Who’s Masturbating? (Spoiler: Nearly Everyone)
If you’ve ever felt like you’re the only one doing it, here’s a reality check. Research from the Kinsey Institute and other sexual health studies shows:
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95% of men and 89% of women have masturbated at some point in their lives
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Around 70–80% of adults do it regularly (once a month or more)
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Many women discover orgasm through solo play long before ever experiencing one with a partner
So, if it’s this common, why does the guilt stick around?
Where Does Masturbation Guilt Come From?
🧠 Cultural Conditioning – If you were raised to believe sex should only happen in relationships, or that pleasure needs permission, then solo play can bring on internal conflict.
🙏 Religious Messaging – Many people still carry beliefs that masturbation is sinful, even if they’re no longer practising those religions.
😰 Silence and Shame – If you never heard open conversations about self-pleasure, it might feel like something secretive or embarrassing.
😐 Porn Guilt – Sometimes, it’s not just the act but the content that causes guilt. Especially if it doesn’t align with your values or identity.
How to Let Go of the Guilt
Letting go of masturbation guilt isn’t about snapping your fingers and making it disappear. It’s about unlearning the rubbish that doesn’t serve you.
✔ Question Where It Comes From – Ask yourself: is this feeling mine, or someone else’s? Did I choose it, or was it handed to me?
✔ Remind Yourself It’s Normal – Look at the stats. Talk to trusted mates. The more you normalise it, the less space shame takes up.
✔ Reframe It as Self-Care – Self-pleasure benefits aren’t just physical. Orgasms release tension, help sleep, and connect you to your body. That’s not indulgent — it’s necessary.
✔ Stay in the Afterglow – Instead of rushing to clean up and “move on,” take a moment. Breathe. Feel. Say it with me: “I deserve to feel good in my body.”
Make It Yours - No Shame Required
There’s no wrong way to explore pleasure. Some people use hands, others use toys. Some keep it quick, others take their time.
If you’re ready to try something new, you might explore:
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quiet vibrators for discreet play
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sex toys for self-discovery
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top rated solo toys 2025
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personal pleasure toys UK
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masturbation gifts for women
Each option is there to support your comfort, curiosity, and confidence — no guilt attached.
Your Body, Your Rules
Masturbation guilt is learned. And what’s learned can be unlearned.
So if you’ve ever felt that heavy “why did I do that?” moment, here’s your reminder: you’re not broken. You’re human.
Pleasure is part of your wellbeing, not something to apologise for.
This month - and every month - choose self-pleasure without the shame.
With a wink and a devilish grin,
My Devilish Desires