How Hard Should an Erection Be? Normal Penis Rigidity

Q: How Hard Should an Erection Be? Normal Penis Rigidity

Xiao Lin： Hello, a general assessment of erectile hardness can be done using a simple test with stickers. <br>You can wrap the stickers around the penis at night, and if they break by the next morning (there are three different types of stickers with varying stiffness), it indica

How hard should the penis be to be considered normal?

I would like to ask how hard the penis should be to be considered normal.
Is there something to compare it to? If I feel that my hardness is insufficient, should I go to the hospital for treatment? If I do seek medical attention, how will the doctor measure it? Thank you.

Xiao Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/04/04

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Xiao Lin: Hello, a general assessment of erectile hardness can be done using a simple test with stickers.
You can wrap the stickers around the penis at night, and if they break by the next morning (there are three different types of stickers with varying stiffness), it indicates the level of erectile hardness.
A more precise method involves using a detector (Rigid Scan) that can be interpreted by a computer.
You don't need to worry too much, as being able to perform the insertion for sexual intercourse is sufficient to indicate adequate hardness.
This is a response from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of Urology, Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2006/04/04

More Info

When discussing the normal rigidity of an erection, it is essential to understand that there is a range of what is considered "normal." An erection is typically described as being firm enough for penetration, which can be likened to the hardness of a cucumber or a firm banana. This analogy helps to visualize the expected rigidity; it should be firm but not overly rigid to the point of discomfort.

The hardness of an erection can be influenced by various factors, including psychological state, physical health, and hormonal levels. A normal erection should allow for sexual intercourse without causing pain or discomfort to either partner. If an individual feels that their erection is not hard enough for satisfactory sexual activity, it may be a sign of erectile dysfunction (ED), which can be caused by a variety of underlying issues, including stress, anxiety, medical conditions (like diabetes or cardiovascular disease), or hormonal imbalances.

If someone is concerned about their erectile hardness, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider. During a medical evaluation, the doctor may perform several assessments to determine the cause of the issue. These assessments can include:
1. Medical History Review: The doctor will ask about the patient's sexual history, any medications they are taking, and any underlying health conditions. This helps to identify potential causes of erectile dysfunction.

2. Physical Examination: A physical examination may be conducted to check for any physical issues that could affect erectile function, such as hormonal imbalances or vascular problems.

3. Blood Tests: Blood tests can help assess hormone levels, blood sugar levels, and cholesterol levels, which can all impact erectile function.

4. Erection Hardness Measurement: In some cases, doctors may use a device called a RigiScan, which measures the rigidity and duration of erections during sleep. This is often done in a sleep study setting and can help differentiate between psychological and physical causes of erectile dysfunction.

5. Psychological Evaluation: If psychological factors are suspected, a referral to a mental health professional may be recommended for further evaluation and therapy.

It is essential to approach this topic without embarrassment, as erectile dysfunction is a common issue that affects many men at various stages of life. Seeking medical advice is a proactive step toward understanding and potentially resolving the issue. Treatment options for erectile dysfunction can vary widely, from lifestyle changes and counseling to medications and other interventions, depending on the underlying cause.

In summary, while there is no strict measurement for how hard an erection should be, it should generally be firm enough for penetration. If there are concerns about erectile hardness, it is advisable to seek medical advice, where a healthcare provider can conduct a thorough evaluation and recommend appropriate treatment options.

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Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
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