Someone asked us:
i’m a girl and i masturbate regularly but i dont penetrate with anything, i just rub my clit. and i was wondering if theres any negative side effects or anything because last night idk it started to hurt a little bit
There are no side effects of masturbation – except lower stress, improved sleep, relief from menstrual cramps, and orgasms.
There are a ton of myths out there about the “risks” of masturbation, but the truth is, masturbation isn’t harmful in any way. It’s the ultimate form of safer sex, since there’s no risk of pregnancy or infection.
The pain you’re describing sounds like friction between your clitoris and whatever you’re rubbing it with – your hand, the fabric of your clothing, etc. This is normal – it’s possible for frequent masturbation to cause some skin irritation and soreness. But it’s nothing to worry about. You may want to take a little time off from masturbating so your skin can recover a bit. In the future, using lube can prevent this from happening. So can removing any fabric from the equation , which is more likely to chafe.
There’s nothing wrong with the way you’re masturbating. Many, many people find they have orgasms from clitoral stimulation, not vaginal penetration.
- Nina at Planned Parenthood