Penis & Testicle Concerns / Question
Published: September 9, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
Ok, the other night me and my girlfriend were fooling around making out and stuff in her room. I experienced a bit of an erection (though not fully) but then after a short amount of time ejaculated, perhaps because I was rubbing against her? I don't know why this occurred so fast, it usually takes me longer to ejaculate during masturbation. Also, lately I've been having trouble with experiencing a full erection with her. We kiss, touch, finger, and everything, yet still my erection is only mediocre. Any suggestions?
Signed: Mediocre Erection - Any Suggestions?
Dear Mediocre Erection - Any Suggestions?,
The time it takes you to ejaculate can vary quite a bit. The fact that you had an orgasm more quickly with your girlfriend than you do during masturbation may just mean you were probably more aroused with her than you are when you are alone.
As for your erection concerns, there could be a variety of reasons for this. If you masturbate a lot, it may be more difficult to get a full erection. We want to stress that masturbation is a normal, healthy activity, but if you do it enough times in one day, it may affect how strong your erections are. If you are feeling nervous when you are with your girlfriend that might be a factor as well.
If you continue to be concerned about your erections, TeenHealthFX recommends that you see a doctor who will be able to evaluate you. If you do not have a doctor and you live in Northern New Jersey, please call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at (973) 971.6475. If you live elsewhere, get in touch with your local adolescent health center or Planned Parenthood.
TeenHealthFX would also like to remind you that sexual activity of any kind is a big responsibility. We hope that you and your girlfriend are being safe.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Teens whose parents talk to them regularly about the dangers of drugs are 42% less likely to use drugs than those whose parents don’t, yet only 1 in 4 teens report having these conversations. 
