Women masturbate as a coping mechanism and way to relieve stress — rather than a craving for sex, according to a new study.

Researchers in Switzerland surveyed 370 women aged 18 to 56 years old on how often they masturbate and the reasons behind it.

In total, the entire group only masturbated nine times a month.

But those who were psychologically distressed — regularly anxious or stressed — masturbated more often than those who were not.

Previous research has suggested the activity can help to relieve stress because it prompts the feel-good hormone dopamine to be released in the brain.

One woman wrote in response to the survey: ‘For me, it is also a valve to relieve stress. I notice that I masturbate more often during exam periods, for example.’

A second said: ‘[Masturbation] distracts me and relieves me from stress’, while a third added, ‘it brings me back to the here and now and makes me forget everything else for a moment’.

Model Cara Delevingne says she wants to end the ‘global stigma’ around discussing female masturbation: ‘Men are talking about it all the time’

In the study, published online, scientists recruited 370 women who had masturbated at least once over the last three months via Facebook, Instagram and university mailing lists.

Each completed a 35-minute survey in January 2021 on their masturbation frequency, habits and a questionnaire that determined whether they were psychologically distressed.

Results were then adjusted for factors such as relationship status, age and education level.

Of those who completed the survey, 85 percent were heterosexual, while 64 percent were in relationships and about half had a university degree.

Overall, 12 percent of the women — or 44 participants — said they masturbated as a coping mechanism to relieve stress.

But the main reason women masturbated, according to the survey, was to promote calm and relaxation, with 64 percent saying this was why they did the activity.

A further 55 percent also said they masturbated because it evoked feelings of joy.

Few women said they masturbated for reasons such as to help them fall asleep or to relieve any physical pain.

In the paper, they wrote: ‘According to the women in our study, masturbation serves as a strategy to induce positive emotions and promote relaxation when experiencing stress.

‘These findings are consistent with previous research that has highlighted the role of masturbation as a coping strategy for psychological stress and as a means of relaxation.’

In the initial group of 800 women, 15 were excluded because they said they had never masturbated while another 53 were excluded because they said they had not masturbated in the last three months.

Participants on psychiatric medication or who reported using anal stimulation were also excluded from the study.

Rummaging in the darkness of a tiny mud and thatch home in eastern Sierra Leone, ecologist James Koninga plucks a metal rat trap from under a collapsed bedframe.

The 62-year-old belongs to a group of researchers tracking the deadly Lassa fever, a viral haemorrhagic illness endemic in several West African countries and transmitted by infected rats.

Koninga knows all too well what is at stake — he spent a gruelling 20 days in hospital with a Lassa-induced fever, headache and diarrhoea as a young researcher 30 years ago.

“I thought I was going away, I was going to die,” he said.

Ten years ago, the hemorrhagic Ebola virus devastated this region, killing over 11,000 people across Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia.

Sierra Leone has not recorded an Ebola case since the outbreak ended in 2016, thanks partly to a vaccine rollout.

In Kenema district, an early Ebola epicentre, scientists are using the lessons learned a decade ago to try to stop Lassa fever in its tracks.

With an overall fatality rate of one percent, Lassa is nowhere near as deadly as Ebola, which kills on average 50 percent of sufferers, according to the World Health Organization.

But one in five Lassa infections can result in severe illness with a fatality rate of 15 percent.

While cases have largely plateaued in Sierra Leone, researchers are seeing a spread beyond traditional Lassa hotspots.

There is no licensed vaccine and only limited treatment, with the scars of Ebola preventing many from seeking early life-saving help.

• -Living with rats –
  Monitoring the rodent population is crucial in remote villages like Mapuma, where some 20 houses lie enveloped by dense forest.

“Rats burrow inside the houses for shelter,” explained Koninga, donning a face shield and gloves.

Humans usually contract Lassa virus after having contact with the urine, saliva or droppings of infected rats.

“If people come in from the bush with cuts on them and lie on the bed, they could be infected.”

Proximity to the forest, rudimentary mud construction, and uncovered grain and water storage make the dwellings “five-star hotels” for rats, said Lansana Kanneh, 58, field supervisor at the region’s Kenema Government Hospital (KGH).

“Food is scarce for these people so sometimes they even eat the food that has been partially eaten by the rodent,” he added.

Trappers can find up to 20 rats per day in some villages.

After identifying if the rodents are the Lassa-carrying Mastomys variety, samples are collected for analysis.

The rats then receive an injection that prevents viral transmission before being released.

Lassa virus infects between 100,000 and 300,000 people annually in West Africa, killing roughly 5,000, according to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.

But the figures likely underestimate the true scale given surveillance challenges.

Admissions to the Lassa unit at KGH — Sierra Leone’s only dedicated treatment centre -– have declined in the past decade.

Patients normally arrive in the 14-bed isolation ward during the dry season from November to May, but this once-predictable pattern is increasingly uncertain.

• -‘Lassa blood’ –
  “Now we see cases year-round,” said Donald Grant, head of the KGH Lassa fever programme.

The team are also noticing Lassa beyond traditionally endemic zones, with Grant suspecting an improvement in testing as well as deforestation driving rodents into closer contact with humans.

Over the past decade, KGH has also seen an alarming uptick in Lassa patient mortality, which now stands at over 50 percent.

“We’ve seen a lot of these cases coming in in their late stages,” said Kanneh.

“Sometimes they only spend 24 to 48 hours in the hospital, and they die.”

Rapid detection is the key to survival, but non-specific febrile symptoms mean Lassa is commonly misdiagnosed as malaria, cholera or typhoid.

Hours-long journeys on dirt roads prevent many from seeking treatment.

As does the trauma from Ebola, which killed some 4,000 Sierra Leoneans.

“The community people thought that Ebola was brought by the health workers,” Kanneh said, explaining that a lingering mistrust contributed to reduced admissions.

A KGH team raises awareness in local communities about seeking rapid help and ensuring good domestic hygiene.

It is a message well-received by Musa Mosoh, a 53-year-old Lassa survivor who lost seven family members to the illness.

As the morning rain fell in his village of Panguma — a Lassa red zone — Mosoh recalled how his family had faced stigma from the community.

“Now… people have got the understanding we are not from Lassa blood, it’s just a sickness.”

Mosoh tells those with a continuous fever or headache to go straight to the hospital, and even keeps cats to repel any virus-carrying rodents.

Grant, the doctor, is hopeful of a vaccine in the next few years.

Participants in Nigeria and Liberia are currently being given the first-ever Lassa vaccine to reach phase two trials — the midway point of testing in humans.

But Grant still urges caution.

Ebola “taught us a lesson that we need not wait until that critical moment that it overwhelms all of us,” he said.

“We need to act now.”

A strong immune system is your body’s defense against infections and illnesses. While there’s no magic pill to instantly enhance immunity, adopting certain lifestyle habits can naturally boost your immune system. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you stay healthy and resilient.

1. Eat a Balanced Diet

Key Foods:

• Fruits and Vegetables: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Aim for a colorful plate with items like berries, citrus fruits, leafy greens, and bell peppers.
• Whole Grains: Foods like oats, brown rice, and quinoa provide essential nutrients and fiber.
• Lean Proteins: Sources include chicken, fish, tofu, and legumes. Protein is vital for immune cell production.
• Healthy Fats: Incorporate nuts, seeds, avocados, and olive oil for their anti-inflammatory properties.

Why It Matters: A well-rounded diet provides your body with the nutrients it needs to function optimally. Vitamins like A, C, and E, and minerals like zinc and iron, play crucial roles in immune health. Consuming a variety of foods ensures that you get a broad spectrum of nutrients necessary for maintaining a healthy immune system.

Building a Balanced Diet: Start by incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your meals. Aim for at least five servings of fruits and vegetables per day. Whole grains should replace refined grains to ensure you get enough fiber and essential nutrients. Lean proteins, such as chicken, fish, and plant-based options like tofu and legumes, should be a staple in your diet. Healthy fats, found in nuts, seeds, avocados, and olive oil, are essential for reducing inflammation and supporting immune function.

Meal Planning: Planning your meals ahead of time can help you stick to a balanced diet. Prepare a weekly menu that includes a variety of foods from each food group. This not only ensures you get a range of nutrients but also helps you avoid the temptation of unhealthy snacks and meals.

External Links for More Information:

• Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health: Nutrition and Immunity
• Healthline: The 15 Best Foods to Boost Your Immune System

2. Stay Hydrated

Tips:

• Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.
• Include hydrating foods like cucumbers, watermelons, and oranges.
• Limit diuretics such as caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate your body.

Why It Matters: Hydration is essential for every bodily function, including the immune system. Water helps in the production of lymph, which carries white blood cells and other immune system cells. Staying hydrated ensures that your body can efficiently transport nutrients to cells and remove waste products.

Signs of Dehydration: It’s important to recognize the signs of dehydration, which can include dry mouth, fatigue, headache, and dizziness. By the time you feel thirsty, you might already be slightly dehydrated. Make it a habit to drink water regularly throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

Hydration Tips: Carry a water bottle with you to remind yourself to drink water. If you find plain water boring, try adding a slice of lemon, cucumber, or a few mint leaves for flavor. Eating water-rich foods like cucumbers, watermelons, oranges, and strawberries can also contribute to your daily hydration needs.

External Links for More Information:

• Mayo Clinic: Water: How Much Should You Drink Every Day?
• WebMD: 6 Reasons to Drink Water

3. Exercise Regularly

Types of Exercise:

• Cardio: Activities like walking, running, and cycling improve cardiovascular health and increase circulation.
• Strength Training: Lifting weights or doing bodyweight exercises like push-ups and squats help build muscle and strength.
• Flexibility and Balance: Yoga and stretching improve flexibility, balance, and reduce stress.

Why It Matters: Regular physical activity helps flush bacteria out of the lungs and airways, reduces inflammation, and promotes the circulation of immune cells. Exercise also lowers levels of stress hormones, which can compromise immune function if they remain elevated for prolonged periods.

Creating an Exercise Routine: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise each week, combined with muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days a week. Find activities you enjoy to make it easier to stick with your routine. Whether it’s dancing, hiking, swimming, or playing a sport, the key is to stay active.

Rest and Recovery: Remember that rest and recovery are just as important as exercise. Overtraining can weaken your immune system, so listen to your body and take rest days when needed. Incorporating stretching and flexibility exercises can help reduce muscle soreness and improve overall physical health.

External Links for More Information:

• CDC: How Much Physical Activity Do Adults Need?
• Johns Hopkins Medicine: The Immune System Benefits of Exercise

4. Get Enough Sleep

Tips for Better Sleep:

• Maintain a regular sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time each day.
• Create a relaxing bedtime routine, such as reading or taking a warm bath.
• Avoid screens and caffeine before bedtime.

Why It Matters: Sleep is crucial for the production and release of cytokines, proteins that help the immune system respond to infections. Lack of sleep can weaken your immune response, making you more susceptible to illnesses.

Creating a Sleep-Friendly Environment: Ensure your bedroom is conducive to sleep. Keep it cool, dark, and quiet. Investing in a comfortable mattress and pillows can make a significant difference in the quality of your sleep. Reducing noise and light can also help improve sleep quality.

Dealing with Sleep Issues: If you struggle with insomnia or other sleep disorders, consider seeking professional help. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is an effective treatment for chronic sleep issues. Avoid relying on sleep medications, as they can have side effects and may not address the underlying issues.

External Links for More Information:

• National Sleep Foundation: How Sleep Affects Immunity
• Sleep.org: Tips for Better Sleep

5. Manage Stress

Stress-Reduction Techniques:

• Mindfulness and Meditation: Practices like deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness can reduce stress levels.
• Physical Activity: Exercise helps lower stress hormones and stimulates the production of endorphins.
• Social Connections: Maintaining strong social ties can provide emotional support and reduce stress.

Why It Matters: Chronic stress can suppress the immune system, making you more susceptible to illness. Managing stress effectively is crucial for maintaining a strong immune response. High levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, can interfere with immune function if they remain elevated for extended periods.

Practicing Mindfulness: Mindfulness involves focusing on the present moment and accepting it without judgment. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. Mindfulness apps and guided meditation videos can provide additional support.

Social Support: Strong social connections can buffer against stress. Make time for friends and family, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support when needed. Engaging in social activities and building a network of supportive relationships can have a positive impact on mental and emotional well-being.

External Links for More Information:

• American Psychological Association: Stress Weakens the Immune System
• Mindful: How to Meditate

Conclusion

Boosting your immune system naturally involves adopting a healthy lifestyle. Eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and managing stress are key factors. By integrating these habits into your daily routine, you can strengthen your immune defenses and enhance your overall well-being.

Ready to shed some pounds and feel amazing in just 30 days? While long-term weight loss is best achieved gradually, you can definitely jumpstart your journey with a focused plan. Let’s dive into a fun and easy 5-step process to help you lose weight in a month!

Step 1: Set Realistic Goals 🎯

First things first, let’s get those goals in check! Aim to lose 1-2 pounds per week – it’s healthy and sustainable. Need help setting goals? Check out the CDC’s goal-setting guide for some great tips.

Step 2: Create a Calorie Deficit 📉

To lose weight, you gotta burn more calories than you consume. Calculate your daily calorie needs and create a deficit by eating less and moving more. Tools like MyFitnessPal are super handy for tracking your calories.

Step 3: Eat a Balanced Diet 🥗

Fill your plate with whole foods like fruits, veggies, lean proteins, and whole grains. Say goodbye to processed foods, sugary drinks, and high-fat snacks. Need some healthy eating inspiration? Check out Harvard’s nutrition guide.

Step 4: Incorporate Regular Exercise 🏋️

Exercise is a game-changer for weight loss. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week. Don’t forget to add strength training to build muscle and boost your metabolism. For workout ideas, visit the Mayo Clinic’s exercise guide.

Step 5: Stay Hydrated and Get Enough Sleep 💧😴

Water and sleep are your best friends. Aim for at least 8 cups of water a day and get 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Learn more about the importance of hydration from Healthline.

Bonus Tips 🌟

1. Track Your Progress 📈 Keep track of your weight and measurements to stay motivated and make necessary adjustments. It’s all about seeing those little victories!
2. Stay Accountable 🤝 Share your goals with a friend or join a weight loss group. A support system can make all the difference.
3. Avoid Fad Diets 🚫 Steer clear of quick fixes or extreme diets. Focus on sustainable lifestyle changes that you can maintain for the long haul.

Conclusion

Losing weight in 30 days is totally doable with a solid plan, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and healthy habits. Follow this 5-step process to jumpstart your weight loss journey and build the foundation for long-term success.

Ready to start your weight loss journey? Visit Wave News NG for more tips and resources on health and fitness. Let’s do this together!

Are you on a quest to boost your happiness and improve your overall well-being? You’re in the right place! Incorporating simple habits into your daily routine can make a big difference. Let’s dive into 11 easy tips that will make you happier.

1. Practice Gratitude

Take a few minutes each day to reflect on what you’re thankful for. Shifting your focus from what you lack to what you have can significantly boost your mood. Check out this guide by Harvard Health to learn more about the benefits of practicing gratitude.

2. Exercise Regularly

Did you know that regular physical activity releases endorphins? These “feel-good” hormones can improve your mood and reduce stress. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week. For more information, visit Mayo Clinic’s article on the benefits of exercise.

3. Get Enough Sleep

Quality sleep is crucial for both your mental and physical health. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night. If you need tips on improving your sleep, check out this guide by the Sleep Foundation.

4. Spend Time Outdoors

Spending time in nature can reduce stress and improve your mood. Whether it’s a walk in the park or a hike in the woods, make time to get outside.

5. Connect with Loved Ones

Strong social connections are key to happiness. Spend time with family and friends, and nurture those relationships. This article by Verywell Mind highlights the importance of social support.

6. Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness helps you stay present and reduce stress. Try meditation, deep breathing exercises, or simply paying attention to your surroundings. Apps like Headspace offer guided mindfulness practices.

7. Pursue Your Passions

Engaging in activities you love can boost your happiness. Whether it’s a hobby, a creative pursuit, or volunteering, make time for what brings you joy.

8. Help Others

Helping others can increase your sense of purpose and happiness. Volunteer your time, offer support to a friend, or perform random acts of kindness. Psychology Today explains why helping others makes us feel good.

9. Eat a Balanced Diet

A healthy diet can impact your mood and energy levels. Focus on whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. For nutrition tips, see this guide by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

10. Set and Achieve Goals

Setting and achieving goals gives you a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Break your goals into smaller, manageable steps and celebrate your progress. This goal-setting guide by MindTools can help.

11. Limit Screen Time

Excessive screen time, especially on social media, can negatively impact your mood. Set boundaries for your screen time and take regular breaks. For tips on managing screen time, check out this article by Mayo Clinic.

Conclusion

Incorporating these simple habits into your daily routine can significantly boost your happiness and well-being. Practice gratitude, exercise regularly, get enough sleep, spend time outdoors, and connect with loved ones to enhance your overall happiness.

Ready to start your journey to a happier life? Visit Wave News NG for more tips and resources on happiness and well-being.