According to my primary care physician, it is vitally important for adults, for the most part, to masturbate regularly if they want to maintain the ability to engage in sex and enjoy it to the utmost. Obviously I have a rather open minded doc...and it's a female physician. The old adage of "use it or lose it" is not too far off the mark. I can only speak as a woman, but as you get older and closer to menopause, and especially after that time, masturbation on a regular basis helps to keep the vaginal walls strong, helps keep the bladder "hung" correctly, helps keep lubrication production up which in turn helps keep vaginal irritation at a minimum as well as helps keep vaginal infection lower. Masturbation has been shown to temporarily relieve not only menstrual cramps, but stress, some mild depressions, a variety of pains and aches such as headaches, it helps to normalize and stabilize hormones, help with insomnia, and strangely enough, some studies have even shown that masturbation can help in fighting the urge to overeat. Women who masturbate report a more satisfied sex life with their partners overall and also report that they feel more confidant and outgoing. Another article I read a while back told that women who masturbate on a regular basis, at least 3 times a week, were more likely to have a lower blood pressure and less likely to have a heart attack or stroke. Also mentioned was the fact that women who feel comfortable with masturbation usually also feel more comfortable with their bodies overall and tend to be more observant to changes in their bodies that might be brought to the attention of a doctor which could prevent future health issues. As for me personally, their are exceptions to this due to illness or traveling sometimes, but usually I masturbate daily. I do not always feel so inclined or aroused to want to do it, but I will make it a point, usually just prior to sleep, to at least start and see where it takes me. Most of the time, even if I am not excited or aroused initially, I will get that way within a few moments. On those nights that I masturbate, I sleep so much more deeply, peacefully and wake the next day with more energy. Just my 3 cents worth to whomever may be interested. Thanks.