Important note
At 12 years old, your body is going through puberty. It’s normal to have questions about sex and puberty, but it’s also important to learn about healthy, respectful, and private behaviors.
What is puberty?
Puberty is the time when your body changes from a child’s body to an adult’s body. You may notice changes like acne, body hair, louder emotions, and sexual feelings. These feelings are normal, but they’re private and should be treated with care.
About masturbation
Masturbation is a private activity some people explore to learn about their own bodies. It’s a personal choice and should be done in a private space (such as a bedroom) and not in public. It’s important to:
- Respect your own privacy and others’ privacy.
- Wash your hands before and after to stay clean.
- Be gentle with yourself and avoid anything that hurts.
- Understand hormones and arousal are normal, but they don’t need to be acted on in public or around others.
Safety, boundaries, and consent
Sexual activities should be private, consensual, and appropriate. At your age, it’s best to focus on learning about puberty, relationships, and safe online behavior. Do not engage in sexual activities with others or share explicit content online—it can be unsafe and illegal in many places.
Where to get help or more information
- Talk to a trusted adult you feel comfortable with (parent, guardian, school counselor, or a healthcare provider).
- Use reputable sources for teen health education.
- If you ever feel overwhelmed, confused, or scared, seek help from a healthcare professional.
Key takeaways
- Puberty brings changes that are normal and private.
- Masturbation is a private activity and should be done in private; it’s not something to do in public.
- Keep yourself safe online and talk to a trusted adult if you have questions or concerns.