Sistah, you said it..it's natural, normal, and healthy. (However, I did date a guy who was obsessed with it -- story for another time.) Oh, and guess what, masturbation releases endorphins just like when you exercise...and that's a good thing.

I never used to masturbate, I didn't understand why people made such a big deal out of it. I didn't know how to get myself off and I felt a little desperate each time I tried. Why not just pick up the phone and call someone, anyone, I figured. If someone is at least watching me, then I won't feel so stupid I surmised.

It wasn't untill I participated in a focus group with "Sexologist" Dr. Ava Cadell that the world opened up for me. Participants of the market research were rewarded with lunch, some cash, and some toys for the road.

Let's just say that I got lucky with my toy. I named "him," used him 2x a day, and broke "him." You're right sosubversive, it's a good way to go to sleep and an even better way of waking up. I was carving out a life for us. How do I get "him" on the plane when I travel? The realization that you don't need anyone else is pretty powerful.

In fact, I never had an orgasm before "him." I thought i did until I really, really did. Ever since my first big O, I now know how to guide my human partner toward what will work out, in the end, for the both of us.

For that, I'll forever be grateful to "him." May he rest in peace.

Thanks for commenting. Wasn't sure anyone would "touch" this blog. I love that you broke your toy. Am dying of curiosity- what'd you name him? I like the idea of a vibrator called "Bonny Prince Charlie." Don't know why.

The best way to get contraband past customs inspectors, who are typically male, is to put it inside a very female container, like a tampon box. I used to bring back Cuban cigars from Europe for years in a Tampax box. Not a single US official ever once opened it up. Depending how big your "friend" is, that could work. Should I post this separately as "Advice" in World Travel?

I haven't graduated to hardware yet, but anything's possible. I read somewhere it's more difficult to orgasm without a vibrator once you use one. Is that an old wive's tale? I don't want to make it any more difficult for men if I can avoid doing so. Anyone know?

Completely agree! I fall asleep right after, with my heart pounding, m.y body numb.....pardon me! brb

I've done the very same thing, pre-911 of course! I used a Tampax box for many years to smuggle back Cubans for my cousins. Same logic: I rightly assumed male customs officers wouldn't dare touch anything as anxiety provoking as a feminine hygiene product.

I wouldn't attempt this now as they run lab tests on containers of Biolage shampoo.

Additionally, I'm right with you on masturbation. I don't know a better way, aside from Grey Goose, to take the edge off. Of course, you don't end up with a hangover from too much masturbation- which makes it even better!

TJP

found this b/c of Digg. This sh*t's great i sent the link to friends- what the f*ck is this site anyway? its so hot to see chix write about this. do you have stuff anywhere else? im there

I consider it time for self- love. Loving thyself... Thanks for your authenticity!

I'm a little shy about revealing "his" name. It brings back too many wonderful memories. Besides, to understand why I named "him" what I did, I'd have to go into a graphic description of what "he" looked like....I don't want to ruffle anyone's feathers.

I don't masturbate. My body is a temple. I try my best to treat my body as sacred, not profane. We can't always succeed but I think we do our best to keep ourselves striving towards the better.

Awesome blog! I love your sense of humor! That being said, totally true. Every night, especially nights when I can't sleep. More women need to be this open and honest!

Number three is brilliant! Masturbation as community service. I'd skip that particular item on your list of things to be thankful for around Grandma. Unless your grandma is Dr. Ruth.

you know, i've never noticed it getting harder to climax manually, even after years of using "hardware" lols... i think it's an old wives tale to tell the truth. great blog.

Grreat post!!! I will deffinetly agree about the natural sedative factor and it is alow better than that damn buzzing alarm clock provided you are by yourself that could be ackward!

I just wanted to write in an say, why does the one guy who comments have to come in here and kind or ruin it? I used to jump in after comments like that and say "hey, not all men are big 13 year olds like this dude." But then I realized that, yeah, dern near all men are big idiot 13 year olds.

I saw the Jam video on this topic and found it hilarious. I honestly can't agree more about this topic. I know it's not something we talk about everyday to acquaintances and co-workers at the watercooler, but it's definitely true. I don't really want to elaborate, but I agree with this article! :)

I completely agree. I feel that we are trained/brainwashed if you will against any form of sex period in this country. My partner was lucky enough to be raised by an open-minded mother who caught her masterbating when she was just 3 years old. What did her mother do? She calmly told her that she knew it felt good and there was nothing wrong with doing it as long as you were in a safe place like your bedroom. That may sound stogy to some, but to me, whose first sexual conversation with his parents was on the eve of his wedding, its amazing! USA loosen up!

I love this blog! I had to laugh though because my man gets all sleepy after and it leaves me wanting more! My ex thought it was disgusting and would deny that he did it. I think its sexy .. thats all i'm going to say! LOL!!