Dear ashakhan,

No — this is a total myth! Masturbation does not cause a woman's ovaries to release an egg, and it has no affect on her fertility. Eggs are released during ovulation, which usually occurs about 14 days before a woman's period begins — although there's a chance that it may occur at any time during her period. Ovulation happens whether a person masturbates once a day, once a month, or not at all.

Masturbation is a perfectly healthy activity, whether a person is female or male. Although some people may worry that masturbation is harmful, it is actually one of the body's most effective ways to relieve stress. For women, it is one of the most common ways to learn how to have orgasm, and it can be used to ease menstrual cramps.

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.