A survey has found that a surprising number of people have masturbated while at work.
Doing it during paid hours might sound like a terrible idea, but the findings suggest it happens far more often than many would assume.
With job pressure and stress piling up, some workers admit they’ve used a trip to the office bathroom as a way to unwind and reset.
And with more people working remotely, the opportunity to do so during the day has arguably become even easier.
When boredom hits at work, plenty of people quietly scroll online shops or sneak a look at social media.
But while taking things further into “alone time” territory feels like a bigger leap, the survey indicates it’s not exactly rare.
So, what did it find?
According to a Time Out survey, 39 percent of respondents said they’d masturbated while on the clock — more than a third.
People gave a range of reasons, including easing stress, beating boredom, and even trying to shake off a hangover.
Most employers likely wouldn’t be thrilled by the idea, but one business has taken a very different stance — encouraging it in a controlled way.
That may make more sense given the company in question is a production studio that makes erotic films.
It’s led by Erika Lust, who is recognised for promoting “ethical” pornography with an emphasis on consent and more realistic portrayals of sex.
Lust has introduced a policy allowing staff to take a 30-minute masturbation break, and has even set aside a private area for it.
She argues it isn’t only about relaxation — it could also support overall performance at work.
“The truth is masturbation can help people manage stress, regulate their sleep, and connect with their body and sexual desires, among other advantages,” she said.
She added: “With the pandemic and the huge shift in how we live our lives, I began to notice that my employees had become somewhat agitated and were performing with less energy than before.”
“So, knowing that there’s only one thing that will make everyone feel good, I set up a private masturbation station for them to enjoy.
“I value my employees and I know that when they feel good, we do good work.”
Dominnique Karetsos, co-founder and CEO of the Healthy Pleasure Group (HPG), supported Lust’s broader point about sexual wellbeing.
She told Boots that she defines ‘healthy pleasure as sexual self-fulfilment’.
“Understanding that sexual self pleasure is related to both sexual health and sexual wellbeing – and therefore a vital part of both our physical and emotional health – is incredibly important,” she said.
“Beyond a person’s sexual behavior, sexual self-fulfilment means having access to high-standard sexual health information, education and care, while also recognising your right to sexual pleasure, satisfaction and intimacy, without fear of shame or embarrassment.”