Dear Muas,

Not true at all! It is completely normal for both women and men to masturbate — it is not "dirty." Masturbation is a perfectly healthy activity. Although some people may worry that masturbation is harmful, it actually is one of the body's most effective ways to relieve stress.

Some health experts discourage the use of "household products" like Vaseline (petroleum jelly), mineral oil, and baby oil as lubricants. They claim that these products aren't intended for use as lubricants, whereas water-based lubricants like K-Y jelly and Astroglide are made specifically for intercourse. They also claim that oil-based lubricants may increase the risk of vaginal infection for some women because they may "linger" in the vagina longer than water-based lubricants. There are, however, no conclusive studies to prove this effect.

Oil-based lubricants, such as petroleum jelly, baby oil, and cold cream, have been used as sexual lubricants for generations. While they cannot be used with latex condoms, or other barrier methods such as the diaphragm, they are still preferred by many people when condoms are not necessary.

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.