Masturbation is one of those universal experiences that people often keep behind closed doors. For a long time, the spotlight has mostly been on men — society tends to assume they do it more, talk about it more, and even joke about it more. But what about women? Do women actually masturbate as much as men, or is there still a noticeable gap?
Thanks to global surveys and research, we finally have some clear answers. Studies from countries like Spain, France, and the United States reveal very different patterns when it comes to self-pleasure. While Spain shows nearly everyone — both men and women — enjoying solo play, France has seen a big rise in female masturbation over the last few decades. On the other hand, in the U.S., men still report doing it more often than women. These contrasts tell us a lot, not only about gender but also about culture and attitudes toward sexuality.
But statistics only give us part of the story. To really understand how women view and practice masturbation, it helps to listen to their own voices. For some, it’s a way to fall asleep faster. For others, it’s about coping with stress, boosting mood, or simply exploring pleasure on their own terms. Every woman has her own rhythm, tools, and fantasies — and these personal insights make the topic even more relatable.
In this article, we’ll explore both the numbers and the experiences. We’ll look at how women’s masturbation habits compare to men’s across different countries, highlight what real customers say about their own routines, and share a few safety practices and pro tips to make solo play healthier and more enjoyable. Whether you’re just curious or looking for some reassurance, you’ll find both data and real-life stories here.
👉 And where better to start than with Spain, where survey results show that almost everyone admits to masturbating — men and women alike.
Spain: Yes
According to a 2023 Statista survey, masturbation is almost universal in Spain. The results show that 97 percent of Spanish men and 91 percent of Spanish women admitted to masturbating. That’s an incredibly high number compared to many other countries. In short, nearly everyone in Spain — regardless of gender — sees solo play as a natural and normal part of life.
This balance between men and women also suggests that the cultural stigma around female masturbation is relatively low in Spain. When over 9 in 10 women openly say they do it, it shows a level of acceptance that some other countries are still catching up to.
👉 But while Spain shows men and women are almost equally engaged, France tells a slightly different story — one of growth and change over time.
France: Growing
In France, masturbation has also become widely practiced, but what’s most interesting is how much female masturbation has grown over the years. A Statista survey in 2023 revealed that 92.6 percent of French males and 72.9 percent of French females said they had masturbated at least once in their lifetime.
The real story lies in the long-term trend: back in 1992, far fewer French women reported having tried masturbation. Over the decades, that percentage has steadily risen, showing a clear shift in how female pleasure and sexual independence are viewed in French culture. While men still lead in the numbers, women are definitely closing the gap.
👉 And yet, when we cross the Atlantic to the United States, the picture changes again — here, men are still significantly more likely to report regular masturbation compared to women.
US: No
A study published on PubMed highlights the contrast clearly: in the United States, 60.1% of men reported masturbating in the past month, compared to only 36.5% of women. That’s nearly a 25-point gap, showing that American women are much less likely to report recent solo play.
Weighted demographic and relationship characteristics and masturbation history of respondents by gender:
| Characteristics | Total (N = 3743) % (n) | Women (N = 1958) % (n) | Men (N = 1784) % (n) | p-value |
| Age (in years) | 0.450 | |||
| 18–24 | 8.9 (332) | 8.8 (173) | 8.9 (159) | |
| 25–29 | 10.7 (399) | 10.3 (202) | 11.0 (197) | |
| 30–39 | 16.4 (614) | 16.7 (327) | 16.1 (286) | |
| 40–49 | 15.8 (592) | 15.0 (293) | 16.8 (299) | |
| 50–59 | 18.4 (688) | 17.8 (349) | 19.0 (339) | |
| 60 + | 29.9 (1119) | 31.4 (614) | 28.3 (505) | |
| Race/Ethnicity | 0.500 | |||
| White, non-Hispanic | 63.3 (2368) | 62.6 (1225) | 64.0 (1143) | |
| Black, non-Hispanic | 11.7 (438) | 12.7 (248) | 10.6 (190) | |
| Other, non-Hispanic | 6.9 (257) | 7.0 (138) | 6.7 (119) | |
| Hispanic | 16.5 (616) | 16.0 (314) | 17.0 (303) | |
| 2 + Races, non-Hispanic | 1.7 (64) | 1.7 (34) | 1.7 (30) | |
| Education | 0.279 | |||
| Less than high school | 11.0 (412) | 10.6 (207) | 11.5 (205) | |
| High school | 27.2 (1017) | 25.9 (508) | 28.6 (510) | |
| Some college | 30.1 (1125) | 31.1 (610) | 28.9 (516) | |
| Bachelor’s degree or higher | 31.8 (1189) | 32.4 (635) | 31.1 (554) | |
| Annual household income | 0.002 | |||
| Less than $10,000 | 2.9 (110) | 3.9 (77) | 1.9 (33) | |
| $10,000 to $24,999 | 9.6 (358) | 10.6 (207) | 8.5 (151) | |
| $25,000 to $49,999 | 17.2 (645) | 18.2 (357) | 16.1 (287) | |
| $50,000 to $74,999 | 17.4 (652) | 17.1 (335) | 17.8 (318) | |
| $75,000 to $99,999 | 13.9 (522) | 13.6 (266) | 14.3 (256) | |
| $100,000 to $149,999 | 18.8 (705) | 17.9 (350) | 19.9 (355) | |
| $150,000 or more | 20.1 (752) | 18.8 (368) | 21.6 (385) | |
| Sexual identity | < 0.001 | |||
| Bisexual | 4.5 (167) | 6.0 (118) | 2.7 (49) | |
| Gay or lesbian | 2.6 (97) | 1.8 (36) | 3.4 (61) | |
| Heterosexual or straight | 89.3 (3341) | 87.7 (1717) | 91.0 (1623) | |
| Pansexual | 0.9 (33) | 1.2 (23) | 0.6 (10) | |
| Asexual | 1.1 (41) | 1.3 (25) | 0.9 (16) | |
| Let me describe | 1.3 (48) | 1.5 (29) | 1.1 (19) | |
| Current romantic relationship status | 0.671 | |||
| Single and not dating | 24.2 (905) | 23.9 (469) | 24.5 (437) | |
| Single and dating or hooking up | 3.6 (135) | 3.9 (75) | 3.4 (60) | |
| In one romantic relationship | 70.8 (2651) | 71.1 (1392) | 70.6 (1259) | |
| In more than one romantic relationship | 0.9 (35) | 0.8 (16) | 1.0 (18) | |
| Past year partnered sex frequency | 0.152 | |||
| Not at all | 36.2 (1354) | 37.4 (733) | 34.8 (621) | |
| A few times in the past year | 15.6 (582) | 14.4 (282) | 16.8 (300) | |
| Once a month | 7.0 (262) | 6.0 (118) | 8.1 (144) | |
| A few times per month | 17.2 (642) | 16.9 (331) | 17.5 (312) | |
| Once a week | 10.7 (399) | 11.0 (216) | 10.3 (184) | |
| 2–3 times per week | 11.2 (418) | 11.8 (230) | 10.5 (187) | |
| Almost every day | 1.7 (65) | 1.9 (38) | 1.6 (28) | |
| Desired partnered sex frequency | < 0.001 | |||
| Much more often | 30.6 (1145) | 21.4 (419) | 40.7 (726) | |
| A little more often | 28.1 (1052) | 25.8 (505) | 30.7 (548) | |
| No change—right frequency | 36.2 (1354) | 44.8 (878) | 26.7 (477) | |
| A little less often | 2.0 (74) | 3.3 (65) | 0.5 (10) | |
| Much less often | 2.0 (73) | 3.2 (62) | 0.6 (11) | |
| Masturbation | < 0.001 | |||
| Past month | 47.8 (1788) | 36.5 (716) | 60.1 (1072) | |
| Past year | 19.3 (722) | 21.5 (422) | 16.8 (300) | |
| More than a year ago | 15.8 (593) | 18.7 (366) | 12.7 (227) | |
| Never | 17.1 (640) | 23.3 (455) | 10.4 (185) | |
| Past year masturbation frequency | < 0.001 | |||
| Not at all | 34.3 (1284) | 43.5 (851) | 24.2 (432) | |
| A few times in the past year | 21.1 (789) | 24.6 (482) | 17.2 (306) | |
| Once a month | 8.0 (299) | 9.5 (186) | 6.4 (114) | |
| A few times per month | 14.6 (547) | 13.3 (260) | 16.1 (287) | |
| Once a week | 6.5 (243) | 4.3 (84) | 8.9 (159) | |
| 2–3 times per week | 10.2 (382) | 4.0 (78) | 17.1 (304) | |
| Almost every day | 5.0 (187) | 0.5 (10) | 9.9 (177) |
The reasons behind this could be cultural, social, or even tied to lingering taboos. In many parts of the U.S., conversations about female masturbation are still considered more “taboo” than discussions around male masturbation. This may explain why fewer women admit to it, even in anonymous surveys.
👉 But numbers only tell part of the story. To really understand women’s experiences, it’s important to hear their own voices — and that’s where customer insights come in.
Customers’ Voices
Here are some real customers’ voices from our email interview:
“It helped my sleep”
One customer shared that masturbation became part of her nightly routine because it helps her relax and fall asleep faster. The release of endorphins and the physical relaxation after orgasm can naturally calm the body, making it easier to drift off. For her, it wasn’t just about pleasure — it was about improving her rest and overall wellbeing.
“I do it when I am not feeling good”
Another woman described masturbation as her go-to when she’s stressed, anxious, or just having a rough day. For her, it works like a reset button. The act itself distracts her from negative thoughts, while the release of “feel-good” chemicals lifts her mood. It’s not about frequency or pressure, but about using self-pleasure as a tool for emotional balance.
“I use finger and tool both”
Some women prefer to keep things simple with just their fingers, while others enjoy experimenting with toys. One customer mentioned she likes both — fingers for intimacy and connection with her body, and tools for stronger or different kinds of stimulation. This highlights how versatile masturbation can be: there’s no single “right” way, only what feels good for you.
“I do it with sex fantasy”
Fantasy plays a huge role in many women’s solo sessions. A customer shared that she often lets her imagination run wild, creating scenarios in her mind that make the experience more exciting. Whether it’s replaying a past encounter, dreaming up a romantic storyline, or imagining something totally new, fantasies can add intensity and variety to masturbation.
“I can go without for months”
Not every woman feels the need to masturbate regularly — and that’s perfectly normal too. One customer explained that she can go for months without it and doesn’t feel like she’s missing out. For her, masturbation is more situational: when the mood strikes, she enjoys it, but she doesn’t feel pressured to do it often. It’s a good reminder that everyone’s rhythm is different.
After hearing these diverse voices, it’s clear that masturbation isn’t a one-size-fits-all habit. For some women, it’s frequent and part of self-care; for others, it’s occasional and mood-driven.
Safety Practices for Women Masturbation
Masturbation is generally safe, but just like any other intimate activity, it’s best to keep a few safety tips in mind. These practices help ensure that the experience stays comfortable, clean, and enjoyable.
1. Wash your hands before and after
Clean hands are important to avoid transferring bacteria or germs to sensitive areas. A quick wash with soap and water before and after makes a big difference.
2. Keep toys clean
If you use vibrators, dildos, or other tools, clean them thoroughly after each use. Most toys can be rinsed with warm water and mild soap, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions. Some toys may also benefit from a dedicated toy cleaner for extra hygiene.
3. Use lube if needed
Natural lubrication varies, and sometimes it may not be enough. Water-based lubricants are usually the safest choice for beginners since they’re gentle and compatible with most toys. Using lube helps avoid discomfort or irritation.
4. Listen to your body
Every woman has different sensitivity levels. If something feels uncomfortable, painful, or irritating, stop right away. Masturbation should be about pleasure and relaxation, not forcing things.
5. Be mindful of frequency
There’s no strict rule about how often to masturbate, but balance matters. Daily is fine if it feels good, but don’t push yourself if you’re not in the mood. On the other hand, if masturbation starts interfering with daily life or relationships, it may be time to slow down.
Pro Tip: Use a Vibrator
If you’ve only ever used your fingers, you’re missing out on a whole new level of fun. Vibrators are one of the easiest and most effective ways for women to explore their bodies — and they’re not just for “advanced users.” Even beginners can enjoy them right away.
The best part? Vibrators do the work for you. Instead of tiring out your hands, you get steady, consistent stimulation that can make reaching orgasm faster and easier. Many women also say vibrators help them discover new spots and sensations they didn’t notice before.
If you’re curious, start simple — a small bullet vibrator is discreet, affordable, and super easy to use. Once you’re more comfortable, you can explore different shapes, sizes, and features.
👉 Ready to try? Check out our beginner-friendly vibrators. They’re designed to be safe, comfortable, and fun — the perfect way to take your solo play to the next level.
FAQ
Is masturbation safe?
Yes, masturbation is safe for both men and women. In fact, it comes with a lot of benefits like stress relief, better sleep, improved mood, and even a healthier understanding of your own body. Just remember to follow basic hygiene practices, especially if you use toys.
How often should I masturbate?
There’s no “magic number.” Some women do it daily, others once a week, and some only when the mood strikes. What matters is listening to your body. As long as it’s not interfering with your daily life, relationships, or responsibilities, your frequency is perfectly fine.
Is masturbation harmful to my sex life?
Not at all — in fact, it can make your sex life better. By exploring your own body, you learn what feels good, which makes it easier to communicate your desires to a partner. For many women, masturbation improves confidence, intimacy, and satisfaction in partnered sex.
Why am I horny from alcohol?
Alcohol lowers inhibitions and can increase sexual desire for some people. However, it also reduces sensitivity and can make it harder to orgasm. So while a drink might make you feel more in the mood, it doesn’t always guarantee stronger pleasure. Moderation is key.
To Wrap Up
So, do women masturbate as much as men? The answer depends on where you look. In Spain, nearly everyone does it — men and women alike. In France, women’s numbers have grown a lot over the years. In the U.S., the gap is still bigger, with men reporting higher rates. But beyond the statistics, what really matters is how women themselves experience masturbation.
From using it as a sleep aid, to relieving stress, to exploring fantasies or experimenting with toys, every woman’s journey is different. Some do it often, some rarely, and some only when the mood is just right. There’s no “normal” or “right” way — only the way that feels best for you.
Whether you’re new to masturbation or looking to explore more, remember to stay safe, listen to your body, and don’t be afraid to try tools like vibrators.
References
1. (n.d.). Share of respondents who have masturbated in Spain in 2023, by gender. Statista. https://www.statista.com/statistics/1021843/share-of-respondents-who-have-masturbated-by-gender-in-spain/
2. (n.d.). Masturbation practice among people in France in 2023, by gender. Statista. https://www.statista.com/statistics/460878/masturbation-young-people-france/
3. Herbenick, D., Fu, T. C., Wasata, R., & Coleman, E. (2023). Masturbation Prevalence, Frequency, Reasons, and Associations with Partnered Sex in the Midst of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Findings from a U.S. Nationally Representative Survey. Archives of sexual behavior, 52(3), 1317–1331. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10508-022-02505-2
