Ask the Sexpert

Penis Sensitivity with Masturbation

 Dear Dr. Kat,
I am a twenty-eight year old single man. I experience extreme sensitivity of the head of my penis when I masturbate. I also get an achy feeling in my left testicle and I’ve noticed that my ejaculations are not as forceful (it only trickles out now versus shoots like it used to). My erections seem larger than they used to be but it takes for me longer to get erect. I notice congestion (a feeling of pressure) directly above my genital area too. What could be causing this pressure and why is my penis so sensitive? Is this a blood flow problem?

Dear Reader,
There are many potential issues that you are presenting here. Let’s see if we can sort it all out. You decline to mention how long you’ve been experiencing all of these symptoms but I’ll have to assume most of them are new to you. Sensitivity at the head of the penis during ejaculation may be normally associated with sexual stimulation. This may depend on the type of stimulation or merely more of a consciousness of sensation. Alone, it is not something I would be concerned about. In regards to the testicular and lower abdominal discomfort I would suggest that you see an Andrologist/Urologist to exclude any infections or other medical disorders.  It’s very difficult to assess a physical concern like this in written form. If you really want to know what’s going on medically -- find a good doc.

The force of ejaculate is usually related to the degree of sexual excitement, male hormone levels, and a man’s age. This will vary through a lifetime and the fluctuations you are experiencing sound like a normal variance.  Decreased size and rigidity of erections may also be apart of a physical variation. However, a multitude of potential social and psychological factors may be coming into play as well. What types of sexual situations are you getting aroused in? Is it with a partner? How do you feel about he/she? These are all questions that a Sex Therapist would pose to you.

Your erectile problems seem to be mild in nature but need to be evaluated by a physician or sex therapist if you want to completely know for sure. Such problems might be also psychological or physical in nature. Problems with anxiety and performance are common with such complaints as well. It comes down to giving yourself a break. Instead of worrying first see a medical doctor to rule out any physical disorders. If you are still experiencing problems then find a good Sexologist or Sex Therapist in your area to address possible psychological issues. If it’s been enough of a problem to write in and ask about and you’ve had the symptoms for more than a couple of months, the peace of mind of getting a physical exam will be well worth it.

~Dr. Kathleen Van Kirk