Penis & Testicle Concerns / Question
Published: February 25, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
Just wondering why occasionally after masturbating the skin around the penis swells and turns rubbery and gel like and the head of the penis goes small?
Signed: Penis Changes During Masturbation
Dear Penis Changes During Masturbation,
Without actually seeing the changes in your penis that occur after masturbation, it is difficult for TeenHealthFX to tell you exactly why the skin and head of your penis are doing this. It does not sound like anything to be concerned about, but if you are worried about things being abnormal, you should definitely make an appointment to see your doctor.
The penis contains two types of erectile tissue, called the corpus cavernosum and the corpus spongiosum. The corpus carvernosum is mostly in the shaft, but the head of the penis is mostly corpus spongiousum - both of these get filled with blood when you get an erection. What you describe seems to be caused by the fact that, for whatever reason, the blood is draining from your spongiosum after you ejaculate, but not quite as quickly or adequately from your cavernosum These differences in blood flow can also probably explain the fact that your skin around the penis swells and changes in appearance after you ejaculate, and the head of your penis seems to get smaller.
Again, if you are concerned about the changes in your penis after you masturbate, you should definitely make an appointment to see your doctor - only he or she can tell you exactly what is going on with your body. TeenHealthFX knows this may be awkward for you, but realize that dealing with sexual concerns is common for doctors. If you live in Northern New Jersey you can also call Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at 973.971.6475 for an appointment.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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