We might have shunted the awkwardness of talking about our sex lives with our girlfriends, but it seems women have yet to break into the self-love movement. According to new research from Indiana University’s National Survey Of Sexual Health And Behaviour only 7.9 per cent of women aged between 25-29 masturbate two or three times a week. This was compared to 23.4 per cent of men, who clearly know a good thing when they see it. (We meant the idea, we swear) So what’s holding women off on helping themselves digitally speaking? Well, according to the study, some women may not be open to discussing their wants or needs, while others may be getting in on the action but keeping schtum. But did you know masturbating has been proven as being beneficial to your overall health? As well as helping reduce insomnia through hormonal and tension release, your fingers could quite literally have the magic touch when it comes to preventing diabetes and cervical infections. Research has proven that women who masturbate are less likely to suffer cervical infections thanks to ‘tenting’. ‘Tenting’, the opening of the cervix that occurs as part of the arousal process, helps stretch the cervix which stimulates the cervical mucous and flushes out bacteria. Need more convincing? Masturbating also helps increase your pelvic floor strength through orgasm contractions (which makes sex with a partner that much more fun). So ladies, who says a quiet night in has to be boring? Why not have some fun? It’s for the good of your health.