Is It Normal for My Penis to Be Hard but the Glans Soft?

Q: Is It Normal for My Penis to Be Hard but the Glans Soft?

Willy： Hello, I cannot determine if it's normal, but generally, the hardness of the glans is somewhat softer, though not too soft. <br>I cannot provide an answer regarding whether your condition is normal or not. <br>This is a response from Dr. <br>Hsu Wei-kai, Director of Urolog

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Doctor, I sometimes have fantasies or watch adult films, and of course, I get an erection.
However, my entire penis becomes hard, but the glans is not as firm and feels soft to the touch.
Is this normal? Thank you.

willy, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/04/06

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Willy: Hello, I cannot determine if it's normal, but generally, the hardness of the glans is somewhat softer, though not too soft.
I cannot provide an answer regarding whether your condition is normal or not.
This is a response from Dr.
Hsu Wei-kai, Director of Urology at Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2006/04/06

More Info

It is not uncommon for individuals to experience variations in the firmness of different parts of the penis during an erection. The penis consists of three main parts: the shaft, which is composed of erectile tissue, and the glans (or head), which is the sensitive tip of the penis. When a man becomes aroused, blood flows into the erectile tissue of the shaft, causing it to become firm and erect. However, the glans may not always become as hard as the shaft, and this can be due to several factors.

Firstly, the anatomy of the penis plays a significant role in this phenomenon. The glans is covered by a layer of skin that is more sensitive and less vascularized compared to the shaft. This means that while the shaft fills with blood and becomes firm, the glans may remain softer due to its different structure and function. Additionally, the glans is designed to be sensitive to touch, which is important for sexual pleasure, and this sensitivity can sometimes result in it feeling softer during an erection.

Secondly, psychological factors can also influence the firmness of the glans. Anxiety, stress, or even the nature of the sexual arousal can affect how blood flows to different areas of the penis. If you are feeling anxious about your sexual performance or are preoccupied with thoughts about how your body should respond, this can lead to variations in firmness.

Moreover, certain medical conditions can affect erectile function. For instance, conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or hormonal imbalances can impact blood flow and erectile function. If you notice persistent changes in your erection quality or if you experience pain, discomfort, or other concerning symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.

In summary, it is generally considered normal for the shaft of the penis to be hard while the glans may feel softer during an erection. However, if this is accompanied by other symptoms or if you have concerns about your sexual health, seeking medical advice is always a good idea. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, and communicating openly with your partner can also contribute positively to your sexual health and overall well-being.

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