Which Countries Masturbate the Most? [International Statistics]
Masturbation is one of the most natural and universal human experiences, yet discussions around it remain taboo in many parts of the world. But have you ever wondered which countries are the most enthusiastic about self-pleasure? Thanks to surveys, Google search data, and sales statistics, we now have insights into global masturbation habits.
Let’s dive into the numbers and see where people are embracing solo play the most—and where it’s still kept under wraps.
How Do We Measure Masturbation Rates?
International health and wellness studies frequently include questions on masturbation habits, providing valuable insights into global trends. For instance, a 2019 study by the Kinsey Institute found that 78% of men and 61% of women reported masturbating at least once in their lives. However, these figures can vary significantly across different cultures and age groups, highlighting the influence of cultural norms and personal beliefs on self-reported behaviors.
Google Trends
Google Trends offers a unique perspective by analyzing search queries related to masturbation and adult toys, shedding light on global curiosity and interest. By examining search volumes and patterns, we can identify regions with higher search activity, suggesting a greater interest in these topics. This data complements survey findings, offering a more comprehensive understanding of global masturbation rates.
Adult Toy Sales
Sales figures from major online retailers serve as another indicator of masturbation rates, reflecting consumer demand across different regions. For example, a 2025 report by Lovehoney revealed that Airlie Beach in Queensland, Australia, ranked highly in per capita purchases of bondage products, anal lubricants, and dildos.
Courier Mail Similarly, in the UK, collectible figurines and merchandise based on manga, anime, and video games have become a £510 million sector, with adults comprising a significant portion of consumers.
The Guardian These sales trends provide tangible evidence of consumer preferences and behaviors related to self-pleasure products.
Cultural Factors
Societal attitudes toward sex and self-pleasure play a crucial role in shaping reported masturbation rates. In cultures where open discussions about sexuality are taboo, individuals may be less likely to report or even acknowledge their masturbation habits. Conversely, in societies with more liberal views on sexuality, people might be more open about their self-pleasure practices. This cultural influence underscores the importance of considering societal norms when interpreting data on masturbation rates.
By examining these diverse sources—survey data, search trends, sales figures, and cultural contexts—we can gain a nuanced understanding of global masturbation rates, acknowledging both the quantitative data and the cultural factors that influence these behaviors.
Top 10 Countries That Masturbate the Most
Masturbation is a natural aspect of human sexuality, and its prevalence varies across different cultures and regions. Based on available data, here are the top 10 countries where self-pleasure is most prevalent:
1. United States
In the U.S., a significant majority of adults have engaged in masturbation. Studies indicate that 84% of Americans have masturbated at least once.
https://multivu.com This high prevalence is reflected in substantial adult toy sales and frequent search queries related to sexual wellness. Open conversations about sexual health in media further contribute to this openness.
2. United Kingdom
The UK exhibits a high frequency of solo sexual activity, with studies showing that 96% of British men and 78% of British women have masturbated.
PR Newswire The sex toy industry in the UK continues to see consistent growth, indicating a strong market for adult products. Cultural acceptance and open discussions about sexuality in British society likely contribute to these high rates.
3. Germany
Germany is known for its progressive views on sexuality, and this is reflected in masturbation rates. Approximately 93% of German men and 76% of German women have reported masturbating.
PR Newswire The country’s robust adult industry and active sexual wellness communities support these findings.
4. Spain
Spain stands out with particularly high rates of masturbation. In 2023, Spanish men masturbated an average of 179 times per year, while women averaged around 90 times.
Statista Cultural openness and a relaxed attitude toward sexuality contribute to these high frequencies.
5. France
France’s sex-positive culture is evident in its masturbation statistics. Reports suggest that a significant majority of French adults have engaged in self-pleasure, with 89% of French men and 78% of French women reporting such activity.
https://multivu.com The growing demand for adult products in France further underscores this trend.
6. Australia
Australians exhibit a relaxed attitude toward self-pleasure, with surveys indicating that a majority have engaged in masturbation. High Google search interest in masturbation-related topics and significant sales of adult toys in Australia highlight the country’s openness toward sexual wellness.
7. Canada
Canada’s inclusive approach to sexual health is reflected in its masturbation rates. A large adult toy market and regular inclusion of masturbation in health studies indicate a society comfortable discussing and engaging in self-pleasure.
8. Japan
Japan presents a unique case with cultural openness to adult media but mixed attitudes toward personal masturbation habits. Despite traditional views, there are significant sales of masturbation aids, suggesting a complex relationship with self-pleasure.
9. Sweden
Sweden’s progressive views on sexual wellness are evident in its high rates of self-reported masturbation. Studies indicate that 65% of Swedish men and 40% of Swedish women have masturbated in the past month, reflecting the country’s open attitude toward sexuality.
10. Brazil
Brazil shows a strong interest in sexual health products, with increasing sales of vibrators and sex toys. Cultural openness and a vibrant adult entertainment industry contribute to the country’s high engagement with self-pleasure.
These findings highlight the diverse cultural attitudes toward masturbation worldwide, influenced by factors such as societal norms, cultural openness, and the availability of sexual wellness products.
Countries Where Masturbation Is Less Common
While many countries embrace open conversations about sexual health and self-pleasure, there are regions where masturbation rates tend to be lower. This can often be attributed to cultural, religious, or societal factors that discourage or stigmatize discussions around sex. Here’s a closer look at some countries where masturbation is less commonly reported:
1. India
In India, masturbation is often seen as a taboo subject due to deeply ingrained cultural and religious beliefs surrounding sexuality. Many Indians grow up in environments where discussing sex openly is considered inappropriate, leading to limited conversations about self-pleasure. This lack of open dialogue, combined with traditional views on purity and self-control, means that many people may feel ashamed or reluctant to explore masturbation. As a result, masturbation rates in India are reported to be lower compared to countries with more open attitudes toward sex. Cultural norms and a strong emphasis on family and marital expectations further discourage individuals from engaging in self-pleasure.
2. China
In China, social stigma surrounding masturbation is still a significant factor, even though the country has undergone rapid modernization. While urban areas may see more openness in discussions about sexual wellness, rural regions tend to hold onto traditional values that discourage sexual self-exploration. Government restrictions on adult content and limited access to sexual education contribute to the social stigma surrounding masturbation. The lack of comprehensive sex education means many people may not even understand the benefits or normalcy of self-pleasure. Despite this, younger generations in larger cities are slowly challenging these traditional taboos, gradually shifting attitudes toward more open discussions about sexuality.
3. Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia, where strict religious and legal norms govern many aspects of daily life, faces significant barriers to sexual self-exploration. The country’s conservative Islamic values discourage any form of sexual activity outside of marriage, and masturbation is often regarded as sinful. Conversations about sexual wellness are largely absent from public discourse, and laws restricting access to adult content prevent people from exploring these topics in private. These societal and legal restrictions create an environment where masturbation is not only stigmatized but also heavily frowned upon, leading to lower reported rates of self-pleasure.
4. Indonesia
Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim-majority country, has strong conservative influences that shape sexual behavior and attitudes. Islamic teachings in Indonesia often view masturbation as morally unacceptable, which affects how people view and engage in self-pleasure. The nation’s conservative cultural values and the lack of widespread sex education contribute to lower masturbation rates. Discussions about sexuality are often kept private, and traditional views around chastity and modesty play a significant role in limiting personal sexual exploration. While younger Indonesians in larger cities may be more open to these topics, conservative norms still dominate many parts of the country.
5. Russia
Russia is another country where limited access to sex education and a stigma around discussing sexual wellness have led to lower masturbation rates. Sexual education in Russia is often minimal, and the subject of masturbation is rarely addressed in public or even in private conversations. The prevailing social attitudes, influenced by a mix of traditional values and conservative views on sexuality, make it difficult for individuals to explore masturbation without feeling ashamed. The stigma surrounding sexual wellness can cause many people to suppress or hide their sexual desires, leading to lower reported rates of masturbation. While there is a growing interest in sexual health, societal taboos remain a significant barrier to open discussion and self-pleasure.
Conclusion
These countries, shaped by cultural, religious, and societal factors, illustrate how different societies approach masturbation and sexual wellness. While attitudes are gradually shifting, especially among younger generations, many of these regions still face challenges in creating open dialogues around sexual health. In places where masturbation is less common, overcoming cultural taboos and introducing comprehensive sex education could help foster healthier, more open conversations about self-pleasure.
Why Do Some Countries Masturbate More Than Others?
Masturbation habits vary significantly across the globe, influenced by a complex interplay of cultural, religious, educational, and technological factors. Understanding these influences provides insight into the diverse sexual landscapes of different nations.
Cultural Attitudes Toward Sex
Cultural norms play a pivotal role in shaping masturbation behaviors. In societies where open discussions about sex are normalized, individuals are more likely to engage in and report self-pleasure. For instance, a 2018 study by TENGA surveyed over 13,000 individuals across 18 countries, revealing significant variations in masturbation habits. In the United Kingdom, 78% of women reported masturbating, while in Japan, only 58% did.
Bustle This disparity is often attributed to cultural openness; the UK fosters more open conversations about sexuality, whereas Japan maintains more conservative views, leading to lower rates of self-reported masturbation.
Religious Influence
Religious beliefs profoundly impact attitudes toward masturbation. In countries where conservative religious views prevail, masturbation is often viewed negatively. For example,
PR Newswire a global survey found that only 11% of German women felt it was important to discuss masturbation with close friends or family, suggesting a cultural openness that may contribute to higher masturbation rates. Conversely,
Bustle countries like India and Saudi Arabia, where conservative religious views dominate, report lower masturbation rates, reflecting societal taboos surrounding the practice.
Access to Education
Comprehensive sex education is crucial in shaping masturbation behaviors. Countries with robust sex education programs often experience higher rates of masturbation, as individuals are informed about sexual health and self-pleasure. For instance,
Lovehoney UK a 2024 study by Lovehoney found that 64% of men in the UK masturbated at least once a week, compared to 34% of women. This disparity highlights not only frequency differences but also potential gaps in education and openness between genders.
Availability of Adult Products
The accessibility of adult toys and products influences masturbation habits. In countries where these products are readily available and culturally accepted, individuals are more likely to incorporate them into their self-pleasure routines. For example,
PR Newswire a survey revealed that 53% of American men were open to using sex toys on themselves, and 71% on their partners, indicating a high level of acceptance and integration of such products into sexual practices. In contrast,
Bustle countries with restrictive laws or cultural taboos surrounding adult products often report lower masturbation rates, as individuals may feel ashamed or be legally restricted from exploring these options.
Internet Usage and Access to Online Content
The internet has revolutionized access to sexual content, significantly impacting masturbation habits. Countries with high internet penetration rates often see higher masturbation rates, as individuals can easily access adult material and engage with online communities discussing sexual wellness. For instance,
Bustle countries like the United States and Germany, with high internet usage, report higher masturbation rates, while countries with restricted internet access or censorship, such as China, report lower rates. This correlation underscores the role of digital connectivity in shaping modern sexual behaviors.
Conclusion
Masturbation rates across countries are shaped by a mosaic of cultural, religious, educational, and technological factors. Open cultural dialogues, progressive religious interpretations, comprehensive sex education, accessible adult products, and unrestricted internet access collectively foster environments where individuals feel informed and liberated to explore self-pleasure. Conversely, restrictions in these areas can lead to lower masturbation rates, reflecting the complex ways societies influence personal sexual behaviors.
The Global Shift Towards Sexual Wellness
In recent years, there’s been a noticeable global shift towards embracing sexual wellness. This movement is transforming how we view and engage in self-pleasure, with many countries leading the charge in fostering a more open and accepting environment.
Encouraging Open Conversations About Sexual Health
Open dialogue about sexual health is becoming more common worldwide. In France, for instance, discussions about female masturbation have gained prominence, with studies indicating that 72.9% of women reported engaging in self-pleasure in 2023. This marks a significant increase from previous decades, reflecting changing attitudes and reduced stigma.
Similarly, in Spain, there’s a growing trend towards more conscious and diversified sexual practices. Studies from 2025 reveal a shift away from alcohol-centric encounters, with a focus on exploring various erogenous zones and sensory experiences. This evolution highlights a broader acceptance of diverse sexual expressions.
Introducing Comprehensive Sex Education Programs
Countries are increasingly recognizing the importance of comprehensive sex education in promoting sexual wellness. In the United States and Europe, surveys indicate that nearly 50% of individuals have used sex toys, with about 20% acquiring new ones during the pandemic. This openness is attributed to better education and a more accepting cultural attitude towards self-pleasure.
Expanding Access to Adult Wellness Products
The accessibility of adult wellness products has seen significant growth, contributing to a more open approach to sexual health. The global sexual wellness market is projected to reach approximately $39 billion by 2024, with a notable increase in products designed for female pleasure. This surge reflects a broader acceptance and celebration of diverse sexual needs and desires.
In summary, the global landscape of sexual wellness is evolving, with more open conversations, comprehensive education, accessible products, and media representation. These changes are collectively reducing stigma and promoting a healthier, more informed approach to self-pleasure worldwide.
Conclusion
Masturbation is a universal act, but its cultural significance and acceptance vary widely across the globe. While some countries embrace open discussions about self-pleasure and prioritize sexual wellness, others still face cultural barriers that inhibit honest conversations about intimacy. The truth is, as we dive deeper into this topic, we realize how much cultural norms, access to education, and societal attitudes shape our sexual experiences.
The Role of Cultural Acceptance
Cultural views on masturbation play a huge part in how self-pleasure is practiced and perceived. In some regions, masturbation is seen as a healthy part of sexual well-being, while in others, it can be viewed as taboo or even morally wrong. The countries that score highest in masturbation rates tend to have progressive views on sexual wellness, open discussions in the media, and comprehensive sexual education programs. It’s clear that when people feel comfortable talking about their sexual health without shame, it leads to more self-exploration and a healthier attitude towards sex in general.
How Education is Shaping Global Trends
The rise of more inclusive and comprehensive sex education is transforming the conversation around masturbation. Countries with better sex education programs report higher rates of masturbation because individuals are equipped with the knowledge and confidence to understand their bodies. In places where sexual health education is lacking or conservative, there’s a noticeable gap in how people feel about exploring their own desires. The global trend is shifting towards breaking down these barriers, allowing people to openly embrace self-pleasure as a natural and healthy part of life.
The Power of Media and Technology
With the rise of the internet and social media, masturbation is being discussed more openly than ever before. Platforms, blogs, and online communities are creating spaces where people can share their experiences and learn from each other. Additionally, advancements in technology, such as the rise of app-controlled vibrators and other innovative adult toys, are making it easier for people to explore their sexuality in new ways. These tools are not just about pleasure—they’re about creating a space for people to feel empowered, informed, and connected to their own bodies.
Shifting Societal Norms
There’s no denying that attitudes toward masturbation are changing globally. As societies continue to push for more inclusivity and acceptance, we’re seeing a shift away from the old stigmas surrounding self-pleasure. Countries that have been more progressive in terms of sexual health and wellness are setting the tone for others to follow. While some areas still struggle with deep-rooted taboos, many are moving towards a future where self-pleasure is seen as a normal, healthy, and empowering part of human sexuality.
The Future of Masturbation Across the World
The global conversation about masturbation is evolving, and it’s exciting to see how attitudes are shifting in a positive direction. As more people become open to exploring their desires, understanding their bodies, and embracing their sexual wellness, we can expect the global landscape to continue to change.
What do you think? Have you noticed shifts in how masturbation is talked about or practiced in different countries? Share your thoughts in the comments below—let’s keep the conversation going!
