Prone masturbation may not turn out to be the best thing for sexual health in some people. It may lead to unintended consequences for physical and mental well-being.
In this blog, we will talk about a few healthy alternatives to prone masturbation habits that can minimise the related risks and aid in living a sexually fulfilling life.
Prone Masturbation – What can you do instead? or Alternatives to Prone Masturbation)
Well, to begin with, prone masturbation refers to a specific technique where the person stimulates themselves by lying face down, rubbing their genitals against a surface.
Though this method can bring immediate pleasure, prone masturbation has some associated risks including:
- Increased Pressure on Genitals: The prone position can apply excessive pressure to the pelvic area, which may cause nerve compression, genital numbness, and desensitization over time.
- Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: The pressure applied may lead to issues with the pelvic floor muscles and can affect urination and sexual function, sometimes causing erectile dysfunction and PME.
- Difficulty Achieving Orgasm with Partnered Sex: Prone masturbation can lead to a dependency on a certain type of friction that is hard to replicate in partnered sex. It can further create challenges in reaching orgasm during intimate relationships.
Now that prone masturbation can be detrimental to physical and sexual health, let’s explore alternatives to prone masturbation that can help you experience pleasure without paying the additional cost –
1. Switch to a Seated or Standing Position
The best way to change the effects is to change the position to sitting or standing while masturbating. It can benefit in multiple ways.
- The circulation happens according to the natural gravity that promotes better blood flow to the genitals and minimises the strain on pelvic muscles.
- These alternatives to prone masturbation are closer to the experience of partnered sexual activity, which improves sexual adaptability and reduces the likelihood of dependency on prone masturbation.
2. Experiment with Different Hand Techniques
Using hands instead of applying pressure against surfaces is a gentler approach. It allows the person to control the level of pressure as well as adjust the stimulation.
- Lightening the grip helps maintain sensitivity and prevent numbness or desensitization.
- Lubricants reduce friction and can lead to a smoother experience. It helps prevent chafing, irritation, or discomfort. You can opt for water-based, silicone-based, or oil-based lubricants, as per your preference.
- Experimenting with different rhythmic strokes and paces can also enhance sensation and create a more enjoyable experience.
Using hands provides versatility and remains more adaptable to different preferences. It offers a pleasurable experience without any physical risks associated with prone masturbation.
3. Mindfulness and Sensation Awareness Techniques
Incorporating mindfulness techniques can help build a deeper connection with the body that can enhance overall satisfaction. You can try the following strategies –
- Deep breathing throughout the experience can heighten awareness and sensation and can lead to greater satisfaction.
- Paying close attention to different body areas and how they feel can heighten the pleasure.
- Try to focus on small details, like warmth, softness, or tingling, which leads to a more focused experience and reduces the need for intense friction or pressure.
Mindfulness encourages a fulfilling experience and promotes a healthy approach to self-pleasure that can be both satisfying and rejuvenating.
4. Incorporate Pelvic Floor Exercises
Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles through Kegel exercises offers significant benefits for sexual health and function.
Pelvic floor exercises promote control and endurance, which are great alternatives to prone masturbation. They work in favor of male sexual health by –
- Muscle Strength: Strong pelvic floor muscles can enhance pleasure by improving control over muscle contractions.
- Orgasm Control: Kegels help gain better control over tension and relaxation of muscles and lead to prolonged satisfaction.
- Long-Term Health Benefits: Strengthening the pelvic floor can prevent issues such as urinary incontinence or reduced sexual satisfaction that may happen due to weakened pelvic muscles.
To perform Kegels, you can start by identifying your pelvic floor muscles by trying to stop the flow of urine.
Once identified, contract them for a few seconds and release them afterwards. You can gradually increase the duration and repetitions as you start building strength.
5. Explore Sexual Wellness Products
Sexual wellness devices such as vibrators, massagers, or other gentle stimulation tools can also be effective alternatives to prone masturbation. These can allow you to enjoy the experience without the intense pressure of prone masturbation.
- Vibrators: These devices come in a variety of styles and intensities that enable one to explore different types of stimulation without applying direct pressure.
- Personal Massagers: Massagers can relieve tension in various areas, which can help in relaxation and lead to a more pleasurable experience.
To prevent discomfort, always use lubricants designed for use with your device of choice.
These alternatives to prone masturbation tools can help you enjoy controlled and varied sensations that are gentle on the body. It makes them an ideal choice for those who are looking to avoid the risks associated with prone masturbation.
6. Limit Masturbation Frequency and Set Boundaries
Frequency and boundaries play an essential role in maintaining a healthy masturbation routine. Reducing the frequency of intense sessions of either way of self-stimulation and taking breaks can prevent the development of desensitization or dependency. You should use these strategies –
- Note signs of soreness, numbness, or decreased sensitivity, and adjust your routine accordingly.
- Avoid lengthy sessions that could lead to soreness or build the need for increased pressure to achieve the same sensations.
- Regularly alternate techniques to maintain sensitivity and avoid developing a dependency on a particular method.
Mindfully setting boundaries can help maintain a balanced approach while ensuring self-pleasure remains a positive aspect of your wellness routine.
Bottom Line
Understanding the potential risks of prone masturbation is the first step toward adopting a healthier, more mindful approach to self-pleasure.
By exploring alternatives to prone masturbation techniques with hand-based methods, mindfulness, Kegel exercises, sexual wellness products, and setting mindful limits, you can experience satisfying, safe, and positive self-exploration.
Always keep in mind that the key to a fulfilling experience lies in choosing methods that cater to both physical comfort and mental well-being.
Incorporating these healthier alternatives can help you enjoy a balanced, satisfying relationship with self-pleasure and avoid the risks associated with prone masturbation.