The bigger the better?
Question
I'm really unhappy with the size of penis. It's less than 5cm long when it's not erect. Can I make it bigger?
Answer
Almost all men will experience anxiety about their penis size or appearance at some point in their life. Try to remember that everyone's body is different and so is their penis size or look. Some men may have a short, fat penis when flaccid that expands considerably during erection while others have a long flaccid penis that barely changes in size when erect but simply becomes more rigid.
It's difficult to compare your body with other men, as you never see yourself as others see you. When you look down your body your own penis looks smaller to you than it does to others, but this is only an optical illusion.
Does size matter? This will depend on your viewpoint. If you feel you have a small penis, it will matter to you, although it may seem unimportant to others. There is sometimes pressure on men about satisfying their partner and penis size can play an important part in adding pressure. Researchers have shown that penis size does not actually affect partner satisfaction during sexual intercourse. Giving pleasure has nothing to do with penis size. Being a good lover is about showing consideration for your partner. Also bear in mind that women have the exact same insecurities about their bodies that men have. Whether you have female or male partners, talking and sharing your feelings is an important part of feeling satisfied in a sexual relationship or any relationship.
It may comfort you to know that surveys by sexologists have shown that almost all men who believed that their penis was an inadequate size actually had a 'normal-sized' penis. Often, despite being told that penile size doesn't matter or that women aren't attracted to a man because of the length of his penis, men continue to think it does matter.
If you feel that your penis is small and you are considering penis enlargement, it's worth seeking medical advice rather than attempting self-treatment. 'Penis enlargement pills' or ointments offered over the internet are misleading and most self-treatment methods like these are believed to be either ineffective, dangerous, or both.
The internet can be a really useful tool to search for information but you need to ensure you are getting quality help and information from people that are medically qualified before making any decisions related to your health. When looking for health information on the internet, you should take some points into consideration. For example, who is providing the information? Are they medically qualified? Who is managing the website, and do they have anything to gain from proposing one particular point of view over another?
If you are considering treatment, you can get medical advice from your doctor (GP) or a local Family Planning Clinic.
Feelings of inadequacy in relation to penis size can be persistent and affect men's life and relationships. Talking things through and getting support can help. If you would like to talk to someone, you could pop along to your local Brook Centre and talk to someone in confidence, or call their helpline on 0800 0185 023. Young men are welcome at all Centres and some Brook Centres run male-only sessions too.
Updated: 15/04/2010
Question answered by YouthNet in association with Brook
