A new study published in the journal Menopause suggests that self-pleasure may offer significant relief for common menopause symptoms, including mood swings, sleep problems, vaginal dryness, and hot flashes. Researchers from the Kinsey Institute surveyed about 1,200 women between the ages of 40 and 65 across the United States about their menopause experiences and how they manage symptoms.
Participants were asked about a range of strategies, from lifestyle changes such as exercise, relaxation, and diet to supplements, hormone therapy, and sexual self-care. The study found that only about 14 percent of women used masturbation as part of their symptom management plan, making it one of the least-used methods. In comparison, 25 percent of women exercised and 21 percent adjusted their diet.
Despite being used less often, masturbation scored among the highest for symptom relief. It earned an average effectiveness rating of 4.35 out of 5, compared to 4.2 for hormone therapy and below 4.0 for lifestyle changes. Nearly half of perimenopausal women reported that self-pleasure improved at least one symptom, particularly mood and sleep.
The researchers explained that orgasms trigger the release of endorphins and oxytocin, which can ease pain and promote relaxation. This chemical response may support better sleep, lower stress levels, and improved mood stability, all areas that often suffer during the menopause transition. There is also a physical benefit, as arousal increases blood flow to vaginal tissue, which can help maintain elasticity and lubrication as estrogen levels decline.
The study also highlighted a gap in communication between doctors and patients. Only about 7 percent of women said their doctor had ever mentioned masturbation as part of menopause care. Even when menopause was discussed, pleasure and sexual wellness were often left out of the conversation. The researchers noted a generational shift, with perimenopausal women being more open to trying masturbation for relief than older postmenopausal participants. About two-thirds of women said they would consider doing it more often if they knew it could help.
Broader Context on Menopause Care
Menopause is a natural stage of life that affects every woman, but discussions about symptom management often focus on hormone therapy, nutrition, exercise, and supplements. The study suggests that self-pleasure deserves a place in that conversation as a free, accessible, and evidence-backed option. For many women, the menopause transition involves a cycle of trial and error in search of relief, and this research points to a tool that is rarely discussed in clinical settings.
The findings reflect a larger issue in women’s health care, where the topic of female pleasure remains under-taught in medical training and under-discussed in doctor’s offices. Researchers hope that increased awareness can help women feel more empowered to explore all available options for managing their symptoms.
