Penis Size and Erectile Concerns After Circumcision

Erectile dysfunction

Hello doctor, I would like to ask if the penis can become shorter or have other changes due to masturbation or psychological factors.
I am still young, so I shouldn't have any organic or physiological issues, right? Sometimes my erection is about 11 cm, and other times it's around 10 cm, and sometimes it's not very firm, which makes me very worried and afraid of potential erectile dysfunction.
I recently had a circumcision and have not masturbated for two weeks; the doctor advised me to avoid erections, so I mostly have partial erections or morning erections that I try to subside quickly.
I'm concerned that this might cause my penis to shorten.
I would like to know if the circumcision only gives the visual impression that the penis is thicker.
Is my length normal? My height and weight are 176 cm and 83 kg.
Is masturbating twice a week excessive? I also read online that after circumcision, there is a chance of growth, and that during puberty, even in college, there is still a possibility of development.
Is this true? I tend to be more anxious and worried, so I'm not sure if I'm overthinking things or if there is really a problem!

nan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/07/17

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask if the penis can appear shorter or have other changes due to masturbation or psychological factors? I am still young, so I shouldn't have any organic or physiological issues, right? Sometimes my erection is about 11 cm, and other times it's around 10 cm, and sometimes it's not very firm, which makes me very worried about potential erectile dysfunction.
I recently had a circumcision and have not masturbated for two weeks.
The doctor advised me to avoid erections as much as possible, so I mostly have semi-erections or morning erections that I try to subdue quickly.
I'm afraid this might cause it to shorten.

Also, I want to ask if circumcision only makes the penis appear thicker visually? Yes, it can look thicker to some people, but not everyone will notice.
Is my length normal? My height and weight are 176 cm and 83 kg.
Is masturbating twice a week excessive? That is normal; twice a week should be okay.
I also saw online that after circumcision, there is a chance of growth.
Is it true that development can continue into college? (Some people develop later and are still growing in college, while others complete their development in high school; it varies for everyone.)

Reply Date: 2019/07/17

More Info

Understanding concerns about penis size and erectile function, especially after circumcision, is a common issue that many young men face. It's important to approach this topic with a clear understanding of both physiological and psychological factors that can influence perceptions of size and erectile function.

Firstly, it's essential to recognize that penis size can vary significantly among individuals, and what is considered "normal" can encompass a wide range. The average erect penis size is typically reported to be around 5 to 6 inches (approximately 12.7 to 15.24 cm) in length. Your reported sizes of 10 to 11 cm (about 4 to 4.3 inches) may be on the lower end of the spectrum, but they are not necessarily indicative of a problem, especially if you are still in your late teens or early twenties. During puberty and into young adulthood, the body continues to develop, and it is possible for further growth to occur.

Regarding your concerns about masturbation and psychological factors, it's important to understand that these can indeed play a role in erectile function and perceived size. Anxiety and stress can lead to performance issues, including difficulties achieving or maintaining an erection. This is sometimes referred to as "psychogenic erectile dysfunction." If you are feeling anxious about your size or sexual performance, this could contribute to difficulties in achieving a firm erection.
After circumcision, it is common for individuals to experience changes in sensitivity and perception of their penis. Some men report that their penis appears thicker after circumcision due to the removal of the foreskin, which can create a visual effect of increased girth. However, circumcision itself does not typically affect the length of the penis. If you are concerned about your penis appearing shorter, it may be a matter of perception rather than an actual change in size.

In terms of your recovery from circumcision, it is crucial to follow your doctor's advice regarding sexual activity and erections. Engaging in sexual activity too soon after the procedure can lead to complications, including pain or infection. It's advisable to allow adequate healing time before resuming normal sexual activity, including masturbation.

As for your question about the frequency of masturbation, doing it twice a week is generally considered normal and not excessive. Masturbation is a natural activity and, when done in moderation, does not typically have adverse effects on sexual health or penis size.

Lastly, if you are experiencing persistent anxiety about your sexual health or concerns about erectile function, it may be beneficial to speak with a healthcare professional. They can provide reassurance, evaluate any underlying issues, and help address any psychological factors contributing to your concerns.
In summary, while it's natural to have concerns about penis size and erectile function, especially after a procedure like circumcision, it's essential to understand that many factors can influence these perceptions. Growth can still occur, and psychological factors like anxiety can significantly impact sexual performance. If worries persist, consulting a healthcare provider can provide clarity and support.

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