Definition
Masturbation is the active sexual stimulation of one's own genitals using hands or other objects like vibrators. The etymological origin of masturbation is probably the Latin word manustupratio ("defilement with the hand"), or the Latin words mas- ("male") and turbare ("to disturb"). [1] [2] [3] [4]

History
According to the author of "Solitary Sex", Thomas Laqueur [ONE-SEX-MODEL] the devaluation of masturbation began in the 18th century. Onania, or the heinous sin of self-pollution, an anonymous pamphlet was first distributed in London around 1712. Its content were unverifiable medical effects of masturbation (skin diseases, blindness, stultification etc.) combined with moral, philosophical and pedagogical ideas. Later, the debate about "self-abuse" was continued in humanities by representatives such as the German philosopher Immanuel Kant. Beginning of the 20th century, new theses came up. The Viennese founder of psychoanalysis Sigmund Freud, for example, explained that masturbation in children was a natural stage of development. In the course of the sexual revolution, masturbation was declared a very natural and healthy behavior by sexual sciences. [2] [3] [5]

Medicine
The medical consensus is that masturbation is a medically healthy habit and has various positive effects on the body. Every orgasm strengthens the pelvic floor, helps to prevent bladder weakness and trains the sexual arousal reaction of the body. Males masturbating frequently seem to have a lower probability to develop prostate cancer. The release of neurotransmitters like oxytocin, endorphins and testosterone reduce the stress level and increase the pain threshold. [1] [2] [3] [6]

Psychology
In sexual sciences, masturbation is the sign of a natural, sexual development. Autoeroticism is a way to better get to know one's body and (re-)develop one's own pleasure. This is why some sexual scientists advise people with sexual problems to become an expert of one's own body and pleasure before experiencing interpersonal sexuality. [2] [3]

Fun Fact
Cornflakes were initially developed by the Kellogs brothers in order to prevent masturbation. Since the original recipe didn't taste good, sugar was added and the popular breakfast flakes were created. [7] [8]