Springtime is a time of celebration, congratulations, and masturbation. Wait, what? 

Yep, you read that right – amidst the end-of-year receptions and graduation ceremonies, May was also International Masturbation Month!

First commemorated in 1995 by a sex shop in San Francisco, masturbation has been nationally honored during this month for going on 30 years! It eventually spawned adjacent events and even competitions, including Masturbate-a-thon. 

Initially held in 1999, Masturbate-a-thon helped break barriers and eliminate stigma surrounding self-love while raising funds and awareness for organizations supporting survivors of AIDs. Plus, contributors adopted the apt phrase, “I came for a cause” (Wikimedia Foundation, 2025).

Though highly taboo in many spaces, masturbation is completely natural. In fact, many scientists and sexual educators recognize it as the safest form of sexual activity (Planned Parenthood, n.d.). You won’t catch feelings or a sexually transmitted disease – the same can’t be said for your long-term, long-distance, low-commitment, casual situationship, huh?

Masturbation is private, but it doesn’t have to be a secret. Join loud and proud, LGBTQ+ friendly, and feminist adult toy shops such as Bellesa Boutique or Unbound Babes for information and deals to help you cross the finish line.

Happy masturbating!

Citations

Planned Parenthood. Is masturbation good for you? (n.d.). https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/teens/sex/masturbation/masturbation-good-you

Wikimedia Foundation. (2025). Masturbate-a-thon. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Masturbate-a-thon