TeenHealthFX - Answers - Nothing Arousing Near Me

Penis & Testicle Concerns / Question
Published: February 25, 2003

Dear TeenHealthFX,

I am 15 years old, and my penis is a little over 5 inches long. I am constantly finding myself to be erect, even when there is nothing arousing near me. Also, I have never been able to ejaculate any semen. Is this normal?

Signed: Nothing Arousing Near Me

Dear Nothing Arousing Near Me,

A lot of teenage boys get erections all the time, unexpectedly, and often for no apparent reason. It can be brought on by something that you would not necessarily consider arousing. TeenHealthFX cannot tell you that there is absolutely nothing wrong with what you are experiencing, as only a doctor can do that, but, rest assured that many boys your age have had similar experiences and questions about their bodies. However, if there is any pain associated with your erection you need to see a doctor immediately- there is a disorder (almost always found in older men or younger people with some other chronic medical condition) called "priapism," that is defined as "the occurrence of any persistent erection for more than four hours duration in the absence of sexual stimulation that is oftentimes very painful." But, if your erections are just plain erections, with no discomfort involved, you are probably ok.

For a teenager whose body is still growing, the average erect penis size is between 2 - 5 inches. Keep in mind that this is only an average, and some males will be larger and some males will be smaller, depending on the person's stage of physical development. The average adult erection is about 6 inches in length, but there can be wide variation around this value, too.

In general, ejaculations usually begin somewhere between the ages of 11 and 15, although anytime between the ages of 8 and 21 is considered "normal". Your inability to ejaculate may be because you have not been able to attain the stimulation needed to reach climax. If you are able to achieve and maintain an erection through masturbation or sexual stimulation, chances are you should be able to reach orgasm. You may be so focused on ejaculating that you are creating anxiety that interferes with climax. Try to relax and not put pressure on yourself.

One thing that FX wonders is whether or not you have started experiencing some of the other physiological changes of puberty like getting taller (growth spurt), growing pubic hair and getting a deeper voice. If you have not and/or if you continue having problems ejaculating then you should probably speak to your doctor. He or she will be able to determine if there is a physical reason you are not able to reach climax. If there actually is a problem, your doctor will work with you to correct it.

If you do not feel comfortable discussing this with your own doctor, go to a teen health center in your area. A teen health center can see you confidentially and on a low/no cost basis. If you live in northern New Jersey, you can call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at 973.971.6475 for an appointment.

Signed: TeenHealthFX