As a teenager, we’re all consumed with similar worries. From wanting to maintain clear skin to wondering if your crush likes you back, your worries are normal and more than likely common. One thing you might be worried about is penis size. What’s considered “normal?” Does size really matter? Let’s discuss.
In short – no, size does not matter. Each person’s body is different, and different is normal. Some penises have foreskins (the thin layer of skin covering the head of the penis), and some do not. Some are shorter, some are thinner, some are thicker, and some curve when erect. These are all normal differences.
Unfortunately, society pressures us through messages like “size matters.” But when it comes to sex and intimacy, size doesn’t really matter as much as you might think. What matters is connection, attentiveness, listening to your partner, and genuinely caring about what pleasures them. Tuning into your desire to please and connect with your partner makes you a better lover. In addition to emotional connection and good communication, it’s about paying attention and responding to what physically feels good for you and your partner! In other words, it’s not about the size of the boat; it’s about the motion of the ocean.
Still need more assurance that size doesn’t matter? Something to keep in mind is that your partner is probably not actually as concerned with penis size as you might think. Most people – especially when being intimate with someone new – feel a little self-conscious about their own bodies and performance. Try to get out of your head and be present in the moment. This will help you connect better.
So, when you start to stress, remember that size does not matter when it comes to sex and intimacy. Emotional connection, good communication, and attention to your partner do. There is nothing to worry about. Your body is normal and perfect the way it is.
For more information about size and your body, check out these resources:
- Guys Reproductive Anatomy
- Ask Auntie – Why do I feel ashamed of my penis size and how do I boost my self confidence about it.
- Planned Parenthood – Help! I have a small penis.
- Planned Parenthood – Different is Normal (video)
- Does Penis Size Really Matter? (video)
Author: Stephanie Paz is a Tigua Indian of Ysleta del Sur Pueblo. She has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from The University of Texas at El Paso and is working towards a Master of Public Health in Health Behavior and Health Promotion from New Mexico State University.
