Dr Girl/Dr Kate Q&A

Dr Kate specialises in women's reproductive health and is a representative of MSIA - Marie Stopes International Australia. As the resident doctor at GIRL, she is here to advise and answer all your medical queries.

So if you have a medical question or a concern - send your email to: deardoc@girl.com.au


Dear Doc,

I'm 14 (almost 15) and I was wondering if masturbation is healthy. First of all, I'm reluctant to have a sexual partner because I'm not ready and secondly, I've heard women orgasm better by self-satisfaction. Anyway, I was wondering if you could give me some good masturbation techniques and tips so I can try them. Thanks!

Signed Just-Curious

Hi Just-Curious,

Masturbation is not unhealthy – from a medical point of view - unless you are using a technique that you could physically injure yourself with! Most of the people who consider it "unhealthy" are saying this as a "moral " point of view. In fact – when you compare it with the risks associated with having sexual intercourse, such as sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy, masturbation is definitely in the safe category! Whether you orgasm better on your own or not I think it depends on the individual. As to tips – please read the first question/answer above for the basics.

- Dr Kate (deardoc@girl.com.au)