I am 16 and still a virgin. I want to have physical pleasure, but I don't want to just have sex with anyone. I have heard about masturbation, but I don't know where to start. Is masturbation normal? Will it affect my sex life later?

--Sarah

You should not "just have sex with anyone." Masturbation is not only very normal, it's a wonderful and safe way to get pleasure, and you should not be ashamed at all about your interest in it. Even small children engage in masturbation; it is only our society that makes it so taboo. Obviously, masturbation is something that should be done in the appropriate place and at the appropriate time -- it is a private matter.

Masturbation will do nothing but improve your sex life later on, as long as you have the attitude that it is natural and healthy. It may give you more confidence in your body, because you may be more comfortable with yourself.

If you need more information to get started, psychologist Lonnie Barbach's book For Yourself: The Fulfillment of Female Sexuality, a guide to help adult women achieve orgasm both with and without partners, includes a detailed discussion of masturbation.