Dear jbl11090,

Masturbation has no lasting affect on the shape of the penis. Masturbation is a perfectly healthy activity, whether a person is a girl or boy, woman or man. Although some people may worry that masturbation is harmful, it actually is one of the body's most effective ways to relieve stress.

When people masturbate, or have other sex play, the clitoris or penis becomes erect — it fills with blood, gets hard, and grows in size. When sexual stimulation stops, the clitoris or penis becomes soft again and returns to its regular size.

Penises come in all shapes and sizes, and are curved or straight regardless of masturbation or other sex play. Flaccid (soft) adult penises are usually between 3-1/4 and 4-1/4 inches long. The average length of an erect penis is five to seven inches long.

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.