Help, I'm addicted to masturbation!

Here's a mail a reader sent:

Please Leye, I am a young lady who started masturbation 3years ago. I love to pleasure myself to orgasm as I only come to orgasm once in a while during sex but it is sure for me during masturbation. Now, I am addicted to masturbation and can not control the urge.  Please how do I stop or reduce the rate since I heard that it has some health benefit. Thank you.


Reply:
Well, It is true that masturbation has several health and emotional advantages, some of which are: 

It helps prevent cervical infections and helps relieve urinary tract infections.
It is associated with improved cardiovascular health and lower risk of type-2 diabetes
 It can help work against insomnia naturally, through hormonal and tension release.
Orgasm increases pelvic floor strength.
It Improves our mood and Relieves stress.


But like we know, too much of everything is bad. Bruising of the genital organs can occur during masturbation, particularly if the genitals are handled roughly during the act or if there is not enough lubrication. These can cause a lot of pain and can lead to serious infection if contaminated by germs.

To deal with the addiction:
Remove anything that tempts your urge to masturbate like Access to pornographic materials, Boredom, Loneliness 

Find another outlet for your time and energy. Fill your life with engaging activities. The excitement of doing something different can help replace the urge to masturbate

• Get creative. The process of turning sexual urges into creative output (called sublimation) is something on which monks and sages have relied upon for centuries. Start writing, learn to play a musical instrument, paint, draw, or do whatever else makes you feel like you're doing something productive.
• Do sports
• Eat healthy.
• Find a new hobby, or cultivate a skill. Learning something that takes a while to master can refocus your brain on the delayed gratification of achieving goals instead of the instant gratification of masturbation.
• Volunteer your time. Devote your energy to helping people who've been less fortunate than you

Be persistent and patient.
If you've tried everything and just can't seem to get your addiction under control, it might be time to tell someone else about your problem and ask for assistance. Don't feel ashamed, and remember that many people have similar problems like an addiction. Seeking help is a brave action, and most people you ask will see it as such.

If none of these work, then ask your religious leader for guidance or make an appointment with a medical professional.