Penile Sensitivity Issues: Causes and Solutions

Decreased sensitivity of the glans penis?

Hello Doctor,
I have a question I would like to ask.
During intercourse with my girlfriend, I sometimes feel insufficient stimulation, which causes my penis to become erect initially but then soften during penetration, leading to difficulties in maintaining insertion (this situation is more pronounced when using a condom).
Additionally, even if penetration occurs, if it lasts more than thirty minutes, I do not ejaculate.
As a result, I have never ejaculated inside, but I can normally ejaculate during masturbation, and I believe my timing and hardness are normal.

Since I was circumcised at a young age, I have come across information online suggesting that friction may lead to keratinization of the glans, resulting in decreased sensitivity and insufficient stimulation during intercourse, causing the penis to soften.
I would like to know the professional opinion of the doctor and possible solutions.
Thank you, Doctor.

Qǐngjiào, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/02/15

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, the sensitivity of the glans can indeed be affected by prolonged friction, leading to issues such as ejaculation or erectile dysfunction.
My suggestion is to change the positions during sexual activity to increase the intensity of stimulation, which should be helpful.
After all, the glans is not the only sensitive area for men; sometimes, stimulating other areas (similar to where you stimulate during masturbation) can also effectively enhance stimulation and make ejaculation easier.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can further discuss and research this together.

Sincerely,
Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai
Department of Urology
Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2009/02/15

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding penile sensitivity issues. It’s important to understand that sexual health is a multifaceted topic that can involve physical, psychological, and relational factors. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing difficulties with maintaining an erection during intercourse, particularly when using a condom, and you also mentioned a delay in ejaculation. Let's explore the potential causes and solutions.

Causes of Penile Sensitivity Issues
1. Desensitization Due to Circumcision: As you mentioned, circumcision can lead to changes in sensitivity. The glans (head of the penis) may become less sensitive over time due to a lack of friction that would normally occur with an intact foreskin. This can result in a condition known as "glans desensitization," where the nerve endings in the glans become less responsive to stimulation.

2. Psychological Factors: Anxiety, stress, and performance pressure can significantly impact sexual performance. If you are worried about maintaining an erection or the timing of ejaculation, this anxiety can lead to difficulties in achieving or maintaining an erection.
3. Physical Factors: Conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular issues, or hormonal imbalances can affect erectile function. It’s also worth considering lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and lack of exercise, which can impact blood flow and overall sexual health.

4. Condom Use: Some men find that condoms reduce sensitivity, which can lead to difficulties in maintaining an erection. This is a common issue and can be addressed in various ways.

5. Ejaculatory Control: The fact that you can ejaculate normally during masturbation but experience delays during intercourse may suggest that the context of sexual activity affects your arousal and response.

Solutions and Recommendations
1. Consult a Urologist: It’s advisable to consult a urologist who specializes in sexual health. They can perform a thorough evaluation to rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms.

2. Desensitizing Products: There are desensitizing creams and sprays available that can help increase sensitivity in the glans. However, these should be used cautiously and ideally under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

3. Psychosexual Therapy: If psychological factors are contributing to your difficulties, working with a therapist who specializes in sexual health can be beneficial. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help address anxiety and improve sexual confidence.

4. Experiment with Different Condoms: If condoms are a significant factor, consider trying different types or brands. Some condoms are designed to enhance sensitivity, while others are thinner or made from materials that may provide a different sensation.

5. Pelvic Floor Exercises: Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles through exercises like Kegels can improve control over ejaculation and enhance overall sexual function.

6. Open Communication with Your Partner: Discussing your concerns with your partner can help alleviate performance anxiety. Together, you can explore different techniques and approaches to intimacy that may enhance your experience.

7. Lifestyle Modifications: Improving overall health through regular exercise, a balanced diet, and reducing alcohol and tobacco use can have a positive impact on sexual function.

In conclusion, while the issues you are experiencing can be concerning, they are not uncommon and can often be addressed with the right approach. It’s essential to seek professional guidance to tailor a solution that works best for you. Remember, sexual health is an integral part of overall well-being, and addressing these concerns can lead to a more fulfilling intimate life.

Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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