Adam & Eve has released new survey results detailing American adult masturbation habits, including satisfaction levels and frequency. The findings offer insights into solo sexual practices and their perceived intensity compared to partnered experiences.

Masturbation Satisfaction Levels

A recent survey conducted by Adam & Eve, released in Hillsborough, N.C., asked respondents about their level of satisfaction from masturbating. The survey found that 19% of those surveyed reported their solo orgasms were more intense. This percentage included 12% of males and 25% of females.

Another 27% of respondents indicated that orgasms from masturbation were about the same intensity as partnered orgasms. This group comprised 29% of males and 26% of females. In contrast, 39% of respondents stated that masturbation resulted in less intense orgasms than with a partner. This included 51% of males and 27% of females.

Dr. Jenni Skyler, Adam & Eve’s resident sexologist, noted that May is International Masturbation Month. Skyler stated that individuals seek solo satisfaction for various reasons, such as relaxation, de-stressing, or to aid in falling asleep. She also mentioned that some people explore their own bodies through masturbation to understand what works for them, which can then be communicated to partners. Other reasons cited by Skyler include having a higher sex drive than a partner or being between relationships. Skyler emphasized that self-love is a form of self-care.

Frequency of Masturbation

Adam & Eve has also released results from a survey focusing on masturbation frequency among American adults. According to the poll, 22% of respondents reported masturbating once a week, while 21% stated they do so a few times a week. The survey also found that 15% of respondents never masturbate, and 12% masturbate every day. Another 16% reported engaging in solo sex less than once a week, and 15% said they rarely masturbate.

Dr. Jenni Skyler commented on these findings, stating that most people masturbate for various reasons, with pleasure being a significant factor. Skyler explained that masturbation can serve as a method to relax, self-soothe, and release tension and anxiety. She added that some individuals masturbate to help them sleep or to fulfill a need when a partner is absent. Skyler also highlighted masturbation as a valuable way to learn about one's body, including what feels good and what the body responds to.

Chad Davis, Director of Marketing for Adam & Eve, stated that the company encourages adults to celebrate their sexuality within their comfort levels. Davis noted that Adam & Eve offers a variety of products, including toys, lubricants, and warming lotions, designed to enhance both partnered and solo sessions.

Historical Context and Survey Methodology

Adam & Eve has conducted surveys on masturbation habits over the years to study sexual preferences and practices among American adults. A related survey from 2010 indicated that 86% of American adults admitted to participating in self-gratification. In that 2010 survey, most respondents (20%) reported engaging in the act 1-2 times per week. Additionally, 17% of respondents in the 2010 survey reported rarely self-satisfying, and 14% said they never participate in masturbation.

A 2011 survey from Adam & Eve and AdamAndEve.com revealed that 27% of respondents masturbate once or twice a week. The next highest percentage, 19%, reported never masturbating. This was followed by 18% who masturbate once or twice a month, 11% once every few months, 9% every day, 8% rarely, and 3% more than once a day.

Dr. Kat Van Kirk, Adam & Eve's resident sex expert in 2011, described masturbation as a fundamental building block in human sexuality. She expressed surprise that many adults still rely on partners for pleasure without understanding how to please themselves. Van Kirk suggested that the reported numbers might be higher due to a social stigma associated with masturbation, which can lead individuals to underreport.

The recent surveys were web-based and conducted by an independent third-party survey company. The survey on satisfaction levels included over 2,000 American adults aged 18 and up. The surveys on masturbation frequency involved over 1,000 American adults aged 18 and up. All surveys were sponsored by Adam & Eve to study sexual preferences and practices.

Key Facts

  • 19% of respondents reported more intense solo orgasms.
  • 39% of respondents stated masturbation resulted in less intense orgasms than with a partner.
  • 27% of respondents said solo orgasms were about the same intensity as partnered orgasms.
  • 22% of respondents masturbate once a week.
  • 21% of respondents masturbate a few times a week.
  • 15% of respondents reported never masturbating.
  • 12% of respondents reported masturbating every day.