Dear DR_E,

Masturbating does not cause pimples. Masturbation is a perfectly healthy activity, for girls and guys, for women and men. Some people may worry that masturbation is harmful because they've heard myths or stories — but they are not true. In fact, masturbation is one of the body's most effective ways to relieve stress.

Most guys notice changes in their body, like facial hair growth and ejaculation, between the ages of 10-12. Most often the changes are complete by the age of 20. These changes are a part of puberty.

Puberty is a time when hormones stimulate change in all parts of the body. Both guys' and girls' sweat glands will produce greater amounts of sweat and oil glands will produce greater amounts of oil. As a result, acne — pimples on the face and other parts of the body caused by bacteria and trapped oil — may appear.

The hormonal changes of puberty that cause acne also cause a greater interest in sex. At puberty, young men and women begin to have more sexual thoughts. Masturbation may be a teen's first sexual activity. It is important to remember that although increased masturbation may occur at a time when acne develops, masturbation does not make acne happen.

And remember — there isn't a set amount of time that means a person is masturbating too much. Some people masturbate every day (sometimes more than once) while others do it twice a month. Some people don't masturbate at all. Every person is different.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.