Masturbation — a clear, non-judgmental explanation

Definition: Masturbation is the act of touching or stimulating your own genitals or other erogenous areas for sexual pleasure. It is a private behavior people of many ages and backgrounds may do to explore their bodies and experience sexual release.

How common is it?

Most people masturbate at some point in their lives. Frequency varies widely between individuals and over different life stages — some people do it often, others rarely or never. All of these patterns can be normal as long as the behavior does not cause distress or interfere with daily life.

Potential physical and mental health effects

• Physical: For many people, masturbation is a safe sexual outlet. It generally has low medical risk when done with clean hands and without causing injury.
• Mental/emotional: It can relieve sexual tension and stress and help people learn what they like sexually. For some, it can also bring feelings of guilt or shame depending on cultural, religious, or personal beliefs.
• No evidence suggests that masturbation causes long-term physical harm, infertility, or other medical problems.

Common myths — and the facts

• Myth: Masturbation causes blindness, infertility, or serious health problems. Fact: These claims are false.
• Myth: It always harms relationships. Fact: Many people masturbate and have healthy sexual relationships; problems arise only if masturbation replaces intimacy in ways that bother you or your partner and you don’t communicate about it.
• Myth: There is a single "right" frequency. Fact: What’s healthy varies by person — focus on whether it feels comfortable and doesn’t disrupt your life.

Safety, hygiene, and privacy (step-by-step guidance)

If you are considering masturbating and want to do so safely and respectfully, consider these non-explicit, general steps:

1. Choose a private, safe place where you won’t be interrupted. Respect laws and the privacy of others.
2. Wash your hands before and after to reduce risk of infection.
3. Use water-based lubrication if you experience friction or irritation; stop if you feel pain.
4. Avoid using objects that could cause injury unless they are designed and cleaned for sexual use; follow product instructions for safety and hygiene.
5. Clean up afterward and store any personal items privately and hygienically.

Consent and respecting others

Masturbation should always be private and never involve other people without their clear, informed consent. Do not masturbate where others may see you without their agreement — that can be illegal and harmful.

When masturbation may be a problem

Consider seeking help from a healthcare professional or counselor if:

• You experience physical pain, bleeding, or persistent irritation.
• Your behavior feels compulsive, interferes with work, school, relationships, or daily responsibilities, or you feel unable to control it.
• You feel overwhelming guilt or distress about it that affects your mental health.
• You have questions about sexual function, safety, or relationships.

Talking to others

If you’re unsure or uncomfortable, consider talking with a trusted adult, healthcare provider, or a sexual-health counselor. Reputable sexual-health organizations (for example, national health services, Planned Parenthood, or similar local services) can provide evidence-based information and confidential advice.

Quick summary

Masturbation is a common, usually safe form of sexual expression. It becomes concerning only if it causes physical harm, legal trouble, or interferes with your life or relationships. Practice basic hygiene, privacy, and consent, and seek professional help if you have pain, compulsive behavior, or significant distress.

Note: If you are under 18 and have questions about sexual health, consider speaking with a trusted adult, school nurse, or healthcare provider who can give age-appropriate guidance. If you are in immediate danger or concerned about your safety or someone else’s, contact local emergency services.

Sources for further information: Trusted sexual-health organizations such as your country’s public health service, Planned Parenthood, or other clinical sexual-health resources.