Some people worry that masturbation is bad for them. Luckily, this is completely untrue. So, just to be clear: Masturbation is perfectly healthy and safe. In fact, masturbation is a great way to reduce stress, and it can help girls learn about their bodies, and what feels good to them.
Additionally, people who masturbate are often more comfortable having sex play with a partner and can find it easier to show a partner how they liked to be touched.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind about masturbation to make the experience as positive as possible:
It is usually a good idea to wash your hands before touching your genitals so that you don't introduce bacteria into your body.
Not only are long fingernails a great place for bacteria to thrive, but they can also scratch the sensitive skin of the genitals. Consider trimming or at least keeping nails clean and filed.
One of the most common reasons girls get urinary tract infections (UTIs) is that bacteria from the anus gets into the urethra. This often happens during sex play, so to help prevent UTIs, it is a good idea to pee before and after masturbating.
Make sure not to put anything (like a finger or toy) that you have used anally, in your vagina. This can pass bacteria. It is fine to go from vagina to anus, just make sure not to do it the other way around.
Many girls use an artificial lubricant like Astroglide, ID or KY Jelly when they masturbate. Lube can help reduce uncomfortable friction and can increase pleasure.
It is perfectly healthy to use a toy to masturbate, however it is important to make sure not to use dangerous toys like the kind that use suction or ones that could break off or get lost in the body.
Also, avoid things that could scrape or cut you. For anal play, only use toys with a wide base that can't slip inside the body. All toys need to be washed well and shouldn't be shared with another person.
About one to two percent of the population is allergic to latex. If you are one of these folks, avoid products made out of latex--like condoms and some toys. When using a condom stick to those made out of polyurethane.
