Dear HeyMissNicki,

Many people feel guilty about sex and masturbation, but enjoying our sexuality is a normal, natural part of life. For many people, however, there is so much guilt, embarrassment, and shame associated with sex that the pleasure is lost.

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. The majority of people masturbate. Women and men masturbate throughout their lives, whether or not they are in sexual relationships with other people. But because masturbation is so misunderstood, the majority of people who masturbate have unnecessary guilty feelings and shame about it.

Shame and guilt can lead to difficulties in a person's sense of self-esteem and in a person's relationships with other people. It's important to our sexual health to be able to enjoy our sexuality and the way we express ourselves sexually. Professional counseling is often helpful to relieve unnecessary shame and guilt about sexual activity.

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.