While we've been focusing on intercourse, you need to think about other forms of sexual expression as well. You need to think about whether you consider them right for you. That's a decision you have to make based upon your own values, and it is important because it sets your sexual limits. The suggestions for living your values discussed above can help you avoid and resist the pressure to go beyond those limits. No discussion of alternatives to sex with a partner would be complete without considering masturbation.
Masturbation involves stimulating one's own body, usually the genitals, for sexual pleasure.
Since some people consider masturbation to be wrong and there are many myths about it, masturbation is a sensitive topic many people feel uncomfortable discussing. How you personally feel about masturbation is something else you have to decide yourself based upon your own values. You do need to know the facts, however. The most important thing to know is that masturbation is quite common among both males and females and that it does not cause any kind of physical or mental harm. It's also safe.