“Is my penis normal?”

Lots of guys worry about the size of their penis. The truth is that, just like our other body parts, penises come in different shapes, sizes and colors. Some hang to the left. Some hang to the right. Some are small when they are soft (flaccid) and some are larger. The size when the penis is soft doesn’t mean it is that size when it is hard (erect). In fact, most guys no matter how small or large when soft, will be about the same size when hard by the time they have completely finished puberty.

Guys usually begin to go through puberty anywhere between the ages of 9 and 18. This means guys bodies will grow larger at different rates including the penis! The average penis length for fully grown adult men is around 5 to 7 inches when hard.

What is important to know is that as you are growing through puberty and even later in life, be sure to go to a doctor if at any time you have discomfort or pain, bumps, discharge or odor from your penis. This is also true if you have pain, swelling, or a lump in your balls (testicles). You could have an infection. Some guys also can also get testicular cancer. If it is caught early, it can be very well treated.

“Is bigger better?”

Is it true that bigger is better? NO! The size of a guy’s penis doesn’t determine how well he gives or receives pleasure during sex. Everybody has different likes and dislikes when they are being touched, kissed and having sex. Talking with your partner and sharing what you both like can help you have a very special sexual time. And of course, getting checked for STDs and correctly using a condom each and every time you have sex can help lower your risk for unintended pregnancy and/or STDs.

More information:

• Teen Source: Find a Clinic
• Planned Parenthood Teen Talk: “How’s It Hangin’?”
• Sex Etc. “What’s the Average Size of a Penis?”
• Kidshealth.org: “Is My Penis Normal?”
• Young Men’s Health: “Penis Size: A Guide for Teen Guys”