May 01, 2023

Why Celebrate Masturbation May?

Big events start out as little ones and grow if they are a worthy cause. For 28 years, Masturbation May (International Masturbation Month) has been celebrated around the world, defending the right to explore one's own sexuality and engage in healthy self-pleasure. TENGA is also helping to celebrate Masturbation May to raise the acceptance of masturbation and understanding of sexual health.

History of Masturbation May

Most articles indicate the event that triggered the start of Masturbation May (also called International Masturbation Month) was the resignation of then-Surgeon General Joycelyn Elders, who had spoken at the World AIDS Day Conference at the United Nations in 1994. At a press conference, she had been asked about masturbation and how the topic should be discussed, Elders replied suggesting on the subject of sex education that since "parents have difficulty teaching certain things...I've always felt that we should make it a part of our school."

And in regards to masturbation, Dr. Elders replied, "As per your specific question in regard to masturbation, I think that is something that is a part of human sexuality and it's a part of something that perhaps should be taught. But we've not even taught our children the very basics. And I feel that we have tried ignorance for a very long time, and it's time we try education."

This response did not sit well with the Clinton Administration, who had appointed her to the post of Surgeon General of the United States, and Joycelyn Elders was asked to resign.

To honor Dr. Elders and her efforts to promote safe sex, the retail store Good Vibrations declared National Masturbation Day to be May 7th, which was later moved to May 28 in 2005. Momentum has grown throughout its 28 year history and has later expanded to International Masturbation Month, and later to be known also as Masturbation May to raise awareness of masturbation and sexual health.

Misconceptions - It's Not Just About LGBTQ+

The truth is that Masturbation May is for everyone. Some may mistake the event to benefit solely the LGBTQ+ community, but it is not the case. Rather, Masturbation May is focused on encouraging people of all genders and sexual orientations to explore their sexuality and engage in healthy self-pleasure. The month of June is LGBTQ+ Pride Month, and is a time to celebrate the progress that has been made in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, as well as to raise awareness of ongoing issues. Masturbation May is for all individuals to come together, show support, and advocate for acceptance of self-pleasure and its benefits.

How TENGA Celebrates Masturbation May

We have written previously about how TENGA honors and supports Masturbation May, conducting surveys and campaigns in celebration of self-pleasure. Since TENGA's founding in 2005, the company's core message has remained that individuals should be free to enjoy their own sexual wellness without guilt or shame. We help individuals around the world by sharing our knowledge and message, as well as helping others to explore and express their self-pleasure with our items.

This year is no exception, as TENGA hopes to provide the best available education and information on masturbation so that everyone can choose their favorite type of self-pleasure during this Masturbation May. Be on the lookout for more articles and special events this entire month on our Love Me TENGA blog and iroha sites.

Conclusion

Masturbation May is for everyone, whether you want to declare your love for self-pleasure or just prefer to keep it to yourself. At TENGA, we believe sexuality is a normal, healthy part of life that should be celebrated, not something to be ashamed of. That’s why TENGA strives to create safe, functional self-pleasure and wellness items that combine intricate design with performance. Not just during Masturbation May, but throughout the entire year, we want to make sure you always have the right to decide what you wish to do. Celebrate Masturbation May with us and feel amazing!