About this episode

This episode explores the history and science of self-pleasure in celebration of Masturbation Month.

To celebrate Masturbation Month, we’re sharing a compilation of clips about self-pleasure. Masturbation Month traces back to 1995, when U.S. Surgeon General Joycelyn Elders stated that masturbation is a natural part of human sexuality and should perhaps be included in sex education. The political backlash ultimately led to her firing, and May 14 was later declared National Masturbation Day in her honor—a movement that eventually expanded into Masturbation Month. In this episode, we’re exploring the history and science of self-pleasure. Featured guests include Dr. Eric Sprankle, Marie Aoyama from TENGA, professor Carole Hooven, urologist Joshua Gonzalez, sleep researcher Michele Lastella, and sex therapist Emily Jamea. Some of the specific topics we address include: How have attitudes toward masturbation changed over time? What do people fantasize about during masturbation? Does avoiding sex and masturbation boost athletic performance? How can we build a healthier relationship with self-pleasure? Can masturbation help you fall asleep faster? Got a sex question? Send me a podcast voicemail to have it answered on a future episode at speakpipe.com/sexandpsychology. *** Thank you to…

People in this episode

Host: Dr. Justin Lehmiller

Guests: Dr. Eric Sprankle, Marie Aoyama, Carole Hooven, Joshua Gonzalez, Michele Lastella, Emily Jamea

Topics covered

• masturbation
• self-pleasure
• sexuality
• sexual education
• fantasies
• athletic performance
• sleep

Keywords

• masturbation myths
• self-pleasure
• sexual health
• fantasies
• athletic performance
• sleep research
• sex therapy

Sponsors

Beducated

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: TENGA

More episodes of Sex and Psychology Podcast

• Episode 509: Out-Of-Control Sexual Behavior In Women · June 12, 2026 · 30 min
• Episode 508: When Your Sexuality Changes Later In Life · June 9, 2026 · 32 min
• Episode 507: Is Non-Monogamy Right For You? · June 5, 2026 · 30 min
• Episode 506: Trauma-Informed Non-Monogamy · June 2, 2026 · 31 min
• Episode 505: How To Move Beyond Small Talk · May 29, 2026 · 30 min
• Episode 504: Why We Avoid Connection (Even When We Crave It) · May 26, 2026 · 34 min

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Sex and Psychology Podcast podcast page.