Previous evidence suggests that masturbation has a complementary function for women and a compensatory function for men. However, in light of changing attitudes toward masturbation, this gendered model of compensation versus complementation may not remain valid. We studied trends in masturbation prevalence over time and identified sociodemographic, sexual life, attitudinal, and relationship factors associated with reporting masturbation. Data were from individuals taking part in repeat cross-sectional probability sample surveys of the British general population National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles (Natsal): 11161 individuals aged 16-44 years in 1999-2001 (Natsal-2), and 15,162 individuals aged 16-74 years in 2010-12 (Natsal-3). There was a statistically significant increase in the prevalence of reported masturbation in the past month (from 37.0% to 40.3% in women and from 73.4% to 77.5% in men) between 1999 and 2001 and 2010-12. Men who reported the highest intercourse frequency were less likely to report masturbation in the past month, while women with higher intercourse frequency were more likely to report masturbation in the past month. Women and men reporting masturbation in the past month were more likely to report: preference for more frequent intercourse; discrepant sexual interest with a partner; dissatisfaction or distress/worry about their sex life; or sexual difficulties or a partner with sexual difficulties. Hence, when partnered sexuality faces challenges, masturbation may serve as a replacement for both women and men.
Fischer et al. (2025) studied this question.