In some people the size of the penis can cause concern. Having a small penis can affect the self-confidence of a person, and lead to anxiety feelings. The belief that it can make a person’s penis bigger or smaller is one of the many myths surrounding masturbation.
Though, for people who already have trouble with the size of their penis these theories can exacerbate anxiety. Several other theories say masturbation can cause adverse effects on various health aspects.
Continue reading to learn more about the relationship between masturbation and penis size, other variables that could influence penis size, and masturbation myths.
Does masturbation make the penis bigger or smaller?
There is no scientific evidence that masturbation has any permanent effect on penis size. Masturbation does lead to an erection that increases the size of the penis, but this is only temporary.
The penis will return to normal size after ejaculation. Penis size is mostly a result of genetic influences. The penis grows throughout puberty and sometimes for a few years after. For most, the penis will stop growing around the ages of 18 or 19.
Testosterone is an important hormone for the growth and sexual functioning. Testosterone levels rise during puberty, and may contribute to the growth of the penis.
The levels of testosterone differ during masturbation too. These improvements, however, are marginal and have no long-term effects. Testosterone levels soon after ejaculation return to normal.
As both the growth of the penis and the masturbation correlate with testosterone levels, this could explain the belief that masturbation affects the size of the penis. But that’s all it’s-a theory and confusion.
Which factors could affect the size of the penis?
Many companies sell lotions, ointments and other items to increase the size of the penis. There is little evidence to support these objects, however.
A 2019 study examined 21 various ways of increasing penis size in over 1,000 males. The research included options for both surgical and non-operative procedures. They found that there was little evidence of high quality demonstrating that those approaches worked.
Penis surgery can increase penis length or girth. This typically involves separating, and injecting, fat or other tissues from different parts of the body into the penis. Such surgical results differ and can lead to complications such as sexual dysfunction.
While it is difficult to increase penis size, it may be possible to make the penis appear larger by:
- losing weight
- shaving pubic hair
- maintaining good physical fitness
Certain causes, such as being cold, will cause the penis to shrink in size. Such results are only temporary again, however.
Many approaches are now used to treat erectile dysfunction. Recovering the ability to get erections in some people will give the impression of a bigger penis. Penis pumps, for instance, draw blood into the penis, causing it to swell. Drugs like Viagra can help too. When taking any medication, it’s a good idea to talk to a doctor or health care provider.
Other common myths about masturbation
Many of the misconceptions about the masturbation effects are linked to testosterone levels.
For instance, one theory suggests masturbation during puberty limits development in other areas. Since testosterone, however, plays a crucial role in bodywide development, and masturbation temporarily affects testosterone levels, this could be the source of this theory.
Another theory ties acne to masturbation. What causes acne is unknown, but may be related to hormonal changes during puberty.
Many beliefs relate masturbation in later life to sperm count or infertility and impotence.
Again, these arguments are backed by a lack of reliable evidence. A scientific reason for infertility is that it is the result of a sperm condition which may result from:
- genetics
- chronic illness, such as kidney failure
- smoking
- heavy alcohol use
- certain medications, such as antidepressants
Summary
Masturbation does not cause a person’s penis to increase in size. It is mainly genetics which determine the size of the penis.
Though, testosterone during puberty may influence penis development, and because masturbation induces temporary changes in testosterone, some people may think that masturbation affects the size of the penis.
While many items claim to be able to increase the size of the penis, there is a lack of high-quality evidence to support such claims.
Masturbation has many other myths including that it causes infertility and acne. But behind those arguments there is little scientific evidence. Research suggests masturbation does not appear to pose any serious risks to health.
Having a small penis can lead to anxiety, and other mental or social problems. People who are concerned about the size of their penis should stop using products which claim to increase the size of their penis and seek help from a therapist or speak to their doctor or other healthcare professional.
