What is masturbation?

Masturbation is when someone touches their own genitals for pleasure, self-exploration, and sexual feelings. It is a healthy activity that people of all ages may engage in.

Children may discover the pleasurable sensations of touching their genitals even before puberty. It is important to teach children that this is a private activity and that it is a healthy part of learning about their bodies and feelings.

What are the benefits?

Masturbation has many benefits:

• It helps to reduce stress and promotes relaxation.
• It allows people to learn about their sexuality.
• It helps people learn about their bodies.
• It helps improve body image.
• It releases chemicals that can act as natural painkillers and reduce menstrual cramps.
• It is the safest form of sexual activity.

Public masturbation is against the law. It violates others’ boundaries. Always get consent from your partner if they are present before engaging in sexual activities, including masturbation.

Facts and myths

The video below provides facts and corrects myths about masturbation:

Tools to support conversations with your children about masturbation:

Resources: 

• 12 General Talking Tips, Amaze
• Conversation Starters, Having the Talks: Masturbation, Amaze
• Key Message Scripts, Having the Talks: Masturbation, Amaze

Services related to this information:

• Contact Planned Parenthood — NL Sexual Health Centre at 1-877 NO MYTHS (666-9847) or 709-579-1009
• Contact your Public Health Nurse:
• • Eastern Urban/Rural Zones
  • Central Zone
  • Western Zone
  • Labrador-Grenfell Zone
• 811 HealthLine (Newfoundland & Labrador) – Call 811 or 1-888-709-2929 / TTY 1-888-709-3555

Eastern-Urban:

• Contact the Sexual Health Clinic at sexualhealthclinic@easternhealth.ca.
• Contact the community walk-in clinic (Mundy Pond) at 709-777-1706