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Despite the cultural and religious taboos surrounding masturbation in general and specifically in Singapore, recent data from a survey by Womanizer shows that it is a normal behaviour that should be discussed openly. The key findings of the survey include:
- Survey finds 23% of girls in Singapore masturbate at least once a week, guys are doing it less than before.
- According to the survey conducted with 14,816 participants from 11 countries, including Australia, the U.S., France, Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore, it was observed globally that males are masturbating more often in 2023 compared to the previous year, while females reported consistent rates of masturbation.
- However, unlike the global trend, the results from Singaporeans showed a contrast ‒ the masturbation gap in Singapore decreased from 74% in 2022 to 49.8% in 2023. Singaporean females were reported to be masturbating more, 59 times on average, compared to males who are doing it less, with an average of 117 times.
- Study shows that females in SG masturbate an average of 34 times a year, compared to 129 times for males.
- Focus on providing young people with accurate information about sexual and reproductive health, enabling them to make informed decisions and lead healthy, fulfilling lives.
- Emphasise that masturbation is a normal and healthy form of sexual expression, and that it is important to talk about it openly and without stigma.
- Promote positive attitudes towards sex and sexuality, and help young people to feel empowered and in control of their own sexual experiences.
- Developing self-confidence and a positive body image; (Lemieux & Byers, 1996)
- Exploring fantasies and desires without judgement; (Adams & Jones, 2002)
- Taking time to relax and get into the moment; (Meston & Heiman, 1998)
- Trying out different types of stimulation; (Komisaruk et al., 2004)
- Communicating openly and honestly with romantic partners; (Adams & Jones, 2002)
- Experimenting with different positions and techniques; (Komisaruk et al., 2004)
- Using sex toys and other aids; (Laursen & Quirk, 2011) and
- Taking time to focus on pleasure and enjoying the moment. (Meston & Heiman, 1998)
- Seeking professional sexuality support earlier than later.
- Adams, S. M., & Jones, E. (2002). Assessing the impact of communication on sexual and relationship satisfaction. The Canadian Journal of Human Sexuality, 11(1-2), 33-44.
- Komisaruk, B., Beyer-Flores, C., & Whipple, B. (2004). The Science of Orgasm. Baltimore, MD: The Johns Hopkins University Press.
- Laursen, B., & Quirk, K. (2011). Sex toys in the bedroom: Prevalence, variety, and sexual health correlates in a college sample. Sexual and Relationship Therapy, 26(2), 153-159.
- Lemieux, A. M., & Byers, E. S. (1996). Body image and sexual functioning in women. The Canadian Journal of Human Sexuality, 5(3), 149-159.
- Meston, C. M., & Heiman, J. R. (1998). Sexual satisfaction and relationship happiness in midlife and older couples in five countries. Archives of Sexual Behavior, 27(5), 551-573.
- Tiefer, L. (2001). The “new view” of women’s sexual problems: Why “dysfunction” is in quotation. Women & Therapy, 23(4), 5-20.
- Womanizer. (2022). Masturbation gap in Singapore. Retrieved from https://zula.sg/masturbation-gap-in-singapore/
About Dr. Martha Tara Lee
She also holds certificates in counselling, coaching and sex therapy, and her fourth degree – a Masters in Counselling in May 2018. In practice since 2009, she is the only certified sexuality educator and certified sexuality educator supervisor by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT) in Singapore.
Often cited in the media, Dr. Lee is the appointed Clinical Sexologist for Singapore Cancer Society. She was recognised as one of ‘Top 50 Inspiring Women Under 40′ by Her World in July 2010, and one of ‘Top 100 Inspiring Women’ by CozyCot in March 2011. She has published four books: Love, Sex and Everything In-Between, Orgasmic Yoga, From Princess to Queen and {Un}Inhibited.
Martha works with individuals and couples in private coaching sessions, and conducts her own workshops. She takes prides in making sure all her workshops are also fun, educational, and sex-positive. This comes easily to her because even though she is extremely dedicated and serious about her work, she fundamentally believes that sex is meant to be fun, wonderful, amazing and sacred. As such, this serious light-heartedness has shone through again and again. For her full profile, click here. Email her here.
