Whether self-pleasure contributes to daily energy expenditure is a common question. Like all physical activities, masturbation requires the body to expend energy above its resting state. However, the amount of energy used is often greatly overestimated. This article examines the caloric impact of the activity, the underlying physiological processes, and the more significant, non-caloric health advantages it provides.
Calculating the Caloric Expenditure
The direct caloric burn from masturbation is generally low compared to traditional exercise. An average session typically expends between 5 and 20 calories, depending on the duration and physical activity level. Passive sessions often cite the lower end of this spectrum, around five to six calories.
This small amount of calories is comparable to the energy used while reading or taking a very slow walk for the same duration. This minimal output means the activity does not significantly contribute to weight management goals. While partnered sexual intercourse burns more calories, the isolated nature and lower physical exertion of solo activity result in a far smaller energy deficit.
The Physiological Response
Although the total caloric burn is modest, the body undergoes a series of measurable physiological changes. Sexual arousal causes a temporary, systemic increase in cardiovascular activity. Heart rate rises, reaching levels similar to those experienced during mild physical activity, such as a brisk walk or climbing a few flights of stairs.
This increased cardiac output is accompanied by a temporary spike in oxygen consumption, elevating the body’s metabolic rate. The body also experiences increased blood pressure and heightened muscle tension. These involuntary muscle contractions and the metabolic spike peak around the point of orgasm.
The total energy expenditure remains low because of the short duration of the peak activity. While heart rate and oxygen demand increase significantly, they do not remain elevated for a prolonged period, returning quickly to a resting baseline. Therefore, the intensity is not sustained long enough to result in a substantial overall calorie burn.
Mental and Hormonal Health Benefits
The primary benefits of the activity are chemical, focusing on mental and emotional well-being rather than caloric expenditure. The act of masturbation, particularly when leading to orgasm, triggers the release of several neurochemicals. These include dopamine, associated with the brain’s pleasure and reward center, and oxytocin, often called the “love hormone.”
The body also releases endorphins, which function as natural mood boosters and pain relievers. Endorphins counteract the effects of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, leading to a reduction in tension and anxiety. Furthermore, the post-orgasm release of prolactin is associated with feelings of satiety and relaxation, which promotes improved sleep quality.