Masturbation is when someone touches their own private parts because it feels good. It’s a normal part of growing up and can help you understand your body and what you like.
Some people do it, some people don’t - and both are totally okay. There’s no “right” amount, and there’s nothing to feel embarrassed about. Everyone is different, and that’s normal.
If you choose to masturbate, it’s important to be in a place where you feel comfortable, private, and won’t be interrupted. A private place is somewhere in your home where other people can’t see you. Because it’s a personal activity, being somewhere safe can help you relax. A private space might be:
Masturbating in public isn’t okay, or in places where other people haven’t agreed to see sexual activity. It’s also important not to take or share photos or videos of yourself or anyone else masturbating, including through sexting. This is for everyone’s safety, and it’s against the law to share sexual images or videos of young people.
As you approach puberty, you may begin to explore your body and start developing sexual feelings. This is the result of different levels of hormones in your body adjusting as you grow up, and is totally normal.
Masturbation is pleasurable and can help you develop a positive relationship with your body. Not everyone masturbates though, and that's okay too. Touching and exploration are all part of growing up.
If you are worried about your relationship with your body, then talk to a trusted adult - you don't need to feel ashamed or embarrassed.
There are different ways to masturbate; there's no correct way, and it may be different for different people based on their personal preference.
The pleasurable feeling from masturbation can build up to a climax called an orgasm. This can be felt throughout the body.
Some people choose to use sex toys to help them feel sexual pleasure. If someone decides to use them, there are a few important things to know:
Looking after your health and safety is always important.
Masturbation isn't bad for you and can be a good way to explore your body and relax. However, if you begin to feel that you need to masturbate, or you are masturbating so much that it is affecting other aspects of your life, like your work, studies or relationships, then it's worth speaking to a trusted adult for some advice.
If you have worries about other aspects of sex, such as watching too much pornography, you may also want to get some support.
The Lovelife guide to words about sex (easy read)
Masturbation Social Story (easy read)
If there's an adult or friend you can trust, have a chat with them about your questions or worries. They might be able to put your mind at rest or give you some useful advice.
If you live in Norfolk:
You can contact the Norfolk Healthy Child Service by calling Just One Number on 0300 300 0123. Our opening hours are 8am-6pm Monday-Friday (excluding bank holidays).
If you live in Waveney:
You can call the Suffolk School Nursing service on 0345 607 8866 or email childrenshealth@suffolk.gov.uk.
The iCaSH (Integrated Contraception and Sexual Health) service provides help with all aspects of sexual health. It is a free, confidential service and you can refer yourself, so you don't need to have a letter from your GP. In Norfolk they have clinics in Norwich, Great Yarmouth and King's Lynn. To make an appointment call 0300 300 3030.
There is no risk to your health from masturbation. It's the safest form of sexual activity, as you cannot get an STI unless you are sharing sex toys. 
You can absolutely masturbate during your period, and some people even find that orgasms can be a great way to relax their body during pre-menstrual cramps or PMS (Pre-menstrual stress). 
