Penis & Testicle Concerns / Question
Published: September 26, 2002
Dear TeenHealthFX,
Hi. I am a male and I haven't been circumcised. When I go to masturbate, I don't like the feeling of it - I don't know why. It sort of hurts when I pull back so I haven't really done it since I first tried it. I am afraid that I will not be able to get into a sexual relationship because of this. Is this normal? I am afraid to talk to someone about this. Can you please help?
Signed: Not Circumsized - Able To Have A Normal Relationship
Dear Not Circumsized - Able To Have A Normal Relationship,
The fact that you are uncircumcised should not cause you any pain when masturbating. The foreskin is like a tube of skin that surrounds and originates at the base of the head of the penis. This tube of skin has special properties that allow it to slide easily on the penis shaft rather then being firmly connected like most skin is, so it should not hurt when you pull back. TeenHealthFX suggests that you refrain from masturbating or having sexual relations until you have seen a doctor to find out what is causing the soreness in your penis. To get the conversation started with the doctor you can print this question and answer and bring it with you.
If you are uncomfortable talking to your own doctor about this and you live in northern New Jersey, please call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at 973.971.6475. Outside of this area you can contact your local teen health center or Planned Parenthood for help. These agencies can see without parental consent and for little or no cost and they have lots of experience helping teens with all sorts of sexual problems.
It is understandable that sex could seem scary if it hurts when you masturbate. Once that problem is resolved you may feel more comfortable getting into a sexual relationship with someone you care about. Remember to discuss safer sex not only with your partner but with your doctor as well before becoming sexually active.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
While 93% of teenage women report that their first intercourse was voluntary, one-quarter of these young women report that it was unwanted. 
