Q: Is it normal to experience dysphoria and still masturbate or have sexual thoughts about your body?

Q: Is it normal to experience dysphoria and still masturbate or have sexual thoughts about your body? Is there anything wrong or weird with masturbating because I feel like there is and it creates shame for me.

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A: There is nothing at all wrong or weird about masturbating, and it is totally normal to have dysphoria and still masturbate and think about yourself and your body in a sexual way! According to a 2018 survey by the National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior, approximately 95% of men and 89% of women reported masturbating at least once in the past year — that's almost everyone. While there can be a lot of shame and confusion around masturbation, that's something that has been created by societal structures that have sought to exert control over people by dictating their bodily autonomy and freedom. As long as you are masturbating in a way that is safe, consensual (i.e., in a private place where nobody will see you or walk in on you), and fun, you're good to go!