Can masturbation affect menstruation? And will it also make it harder for a woman to get pregnant when the time comes to have kids?
- Sofia*

No. Masturbation will not interfere with periods or getting pregnant.

Lots of people have heard all sorts of crazy stuff about — that it can cause diseases, interfere with growth, cause mental problems, lead to blindness, or stop a person from having children. But those things aren't true.

Masturbation is often considered a private topic and some people may feel embarrassed to talk about it. And when people are too embarrassed to talk or ask about something, they might hear and believe things that aren't accurate.

If you have worries or questions about masturbation, talk to a doctor, nurse, health counselor, or someone in your family.

Reviewed by: Larissa Hirsch, MD
Date reviewed: July 2010

*Names have been changed to protect user privacy.