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Question:
I am wondering if it is possible if during a physical a doctor could find out if you are sexually active (even if it is a solo act) ? or if masturbation can cause any health problems

Answer:
by Konstance McCaffree:
(06/19/2004)
You don't need to worry. There are no physical signs, especially in males, that a male is engaging in any types of sexual activity whether it be with a partner or solo. There are no external changes to the body at all. Even in females where there is more of a change in skin ,since the skin is rubbed against more, there are no signs that a woman is engaging in sex. A doctor can only tell there is a change if she has been raped (and there is swelling and bruises) or had a baby vaginally. Masturbation is VERY healthy for us. There are really no harmful effects on either a male or female who engages in this form of self-pleasuring. The effects are the messages from the culture that tell some people that it is sinful or wrong and makes people feel guilty or dirty. All the effects are positive. It increases your cardiovascular function, releases tension both sexual and stress-related, allows a person to really relax, increases the flow of chemicals to the joints and muscles to decrease any pain at the joints. In addition, it allows you to get in touch with your body so that you can learn how it can be pleasured. You can teach what pleasures you to a partner someday. So, don't worry and enjoy the pleasure that you feel.

Reviewed by Sexual Health Editorial Team

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