Dear secret_guy,

If you're nervous or embarrassed, it's okay to say so! Break the ice with something like, "This feels weird for me to talk about, and it may be for you, too, but I want to talk with you about what happened the other day ..."

Having a conversation with your parents about masturbation might open the door for further conversations about sex in the future. Your parents might be able to answer questions and dispense great advice. Plus, sharing what you both know about sexuality can help strengthen trust among you.

It's too bad that so many people worry about masturbation. Although some people may worry that masturbation is harmful, it actually is one of the body's most effective ways to relieve stress. But because masturbation is so misunderstood, the majority of people who masturbate have unnecessary guilty feelings and shame about it. This shame and guilt can lead to difficulties in a person's sense of self-esteem and in a person's relationships with other people.

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.