Penile Health: When to Seek Medical Advice - Urology

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Penile issues


Hello Doctor: I am currently 22 years old.
My penis measures 5 cm in length when flaccid and 11 cm when erect.
I have complete phimosis, but I can manually retract the foreskin to expose the glans when erect, although it feels a bit tight.
Do I need a circumcision? Additionally, I often experience a sensation of needing to urinate during masturbation, and I feel the urge to urinate immediately after ejaculation.
I read online that if the penis is less than 4 cm when flaccid, one should seek medical attention.
Is this true? What is the normal length for an erect penis? Are there any methods to actually increase the length or girth of the penis?

A Dong, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/12/05

Dr. Cai Zhuorong reply Urology


After an erection, the glans can be exposed, but there is a feeling of tightness.
Is circumcision necessary in this case? A: Most of the time, it is not necessary.
Is it true that if the penis is less than 4 centimeters when not erect, one should seek medical attention? A: When the external genitalia is particularly small, consideration may be given to checking male hormone levels.
How many centimeters is considered normal after an erection? A: The average erect size for East Asian men is about 13 centimeters.
What methods can actually increase the length or girth of the penis? A: Surgery, but it is not recommended.

Reply Date: 2020/12/05

More Info


When it comes to penile health, it is essential to understand the various factors that can affect both physical and psychological well-being. Based on your description, you are experiencing a few concerns regarding your penile size, the tightness of your foreskin, and the sensation of needing to urinate after ejaculation. Let's address these issues one by one.

1. Foreskin Tightness (Phimosis): You mentioned that your foreskin is tight but can be manually retracted. This condition is known as phimosis, which is common in younger males. If the tightness is causing discomfort or pain, especially during erections or sexual activity, it may be advisable to consider a circumcision. However, if you are not experiencing significant issues, you might not need to rush into this decision. Consulting with a urologist can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.

2. Penile Size: The average erect penile length varies widely among individuals, but studies suggest that the average erect penis is about 5 to 6 inches long. Your reported size of 11 cm (approximately 4.3 inches) when erect is slightly below average but still within the normal range. Concerns about size are common, especially among younger men, but it is crucial to remember that size does not determine sexual satisfaction for you or your partner. If you are looking for ways to enhance size, be cautious of products or procedures that promise significant results, as many lack scientific backing and can be harmful.

3. Urge to Urinate After Ejaculation: Experiencing a strong urge to urinate immediately after ejaculation can be a common phenomenon. This sensation may occur due to the proximity of the urethra to the prostate and the bladder. If this feeling is bothersome or accompanied by pain, it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying issues, such as prostatitis or urinary tract infections.

4. When to Seek Medical Advice: It is generally recommended to seek medical advice if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent pain or discomfort in the genital area.

- Difficulty retracting the foreskin or painful erections.

- Significant changes in urinary habits or sensations.

- Concerns about sexual function or performance.

- Psychological distress related to body image or sexual health.

5. Concerns About Size and Medical Myths: The notion that a penis must be below a certain size to warrant medical attention is misleading. While some medical guidelines suggest that a penis that does not reach a certain size may indicate a medical condition, it is essential to consider individual variations. If you feel that your size is impacting your self-esteem or sexual health, discussing these feelings with a healthcare professional can provide reassurance and guidance.

6. Enhancing Size: There are no medically approved methods for significantly increasing penile size. Some surgical options exist, but they come with risks and potential complications. Non-surgical methods like vacuum pumps or extenders may provide temporary results but are not guaranteed. Focus on overall health, including maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking, as these factors can improve blood flow and sexual function.

In conclusion, while your concerns are valid, many aspects of penile health can be addressed through lifestyle changes and professional guidance. Consulting with a urologist can provide clarity on whether circumcision is necessary and help you navigate any other concerns you may have. Remember, sexual health is an integral part of overall well-being, and seeking help is a positive step toward maintaining it.

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