Important note

It's normal to have curiosity about your body during puberty. At 12, you should focus on learning about your changes, safety, privacy, and healthy boundaries.

What is masturbation?

Masturbation is the act of touching your own genitals for pleasure. It is a private and personal behavior. It should be done in a private place, where you won’t be interrupted or seen by others.

Safety and privacy basics

  • Privacy: Do it in a private space (your own room with the door closed, or a bathroom) and keep doors and blinds in mind.
  • Hygiene: Wash your hands before and after, and keep fingernails clean to avoid nose or skin irritation.
  • Environment: Ensure you won’t be interrupted. Have some time to yourself so you don’t feel rushed.
  • Safety: Avoid sharing explicit images or details about this behavior with others, especially online.

Boundaries and appropriate behavior

  1. Keep private activities private: do not do this in public or around others.
  2. Avoid pressuring friends or siblings to engage in similar activities or to notice or participate.
  3. Respect others’ boundaries and consent—what you do is your business, as long as it’s private and not harmful.

Healthy puberty education

  • Changes: You may notice new erections, testicular growth, body hair, voice changes, and nighttime emissions (wet dreams).
  • Hygiene during puberty: Regular showering, clean underwear, and deodorant as needed.
  • Emotions: Mood swings and curiosity are normal. If you feel overwhelmed, talk to a trusted adult or healthcare professional.

When to seek help

  • If you feel confused, overwhelmed, or think you might be dealing with pressure or coercion.
  • If you have questions about puberty, sexual health, or consent, reach out to a parent, guardian, school counselor, or a pediatrician.

Online safety

  • Do not share personal pictures or videos online.
  • Avoid sexual content or conversations with people you don’t know well.
  • If you encounter explicit material, close it and talk to a trusted adult about what you saw.

If you’re ever unsure what’s appropriate, it’s okay to ask a trusted adult for guidance. This topic is normal, but privacy and safety come first.