Sometimes asking questions about sex can be embarrassing—even for adults. Here are ten common questions men ask their Men’s Health providers at University of Utah Health ranging from alcohol and sex to ejaculation disorders.
1. Do Different Sex Positions Increase or Decrease Chances of Pregnancy?
No. Regardless of what sexual position you use, vaginal sex can cause pregnancy.
2. Can I Drink Alcohol With Viagra and Cialis?
Yes, there will not be a bad interaction between the two. Keep in mind that when you drink alcohol, your erection may not be as firm and the medication may not work as well.
3. Is There a Surgery That Can Increase the Size of My Penis?
Even an implanted penile prosthetic will not increase the size of your penis. If you are overweight, getting to your ideal body weight will help restore some of the length you have lost since gaining weight.
Many men will ask about injections to add girth and if there is a procedure to increase penis length. The AUA (American Urological Association) considers fat injections (to increase penile girth) and suspensory ligament division surgery (to increase length) to be unsafe and ineffective.
4. Is My Penis Average in Size Compared to Other Men?
This is a question that is hard to answer, and one that many men wonder about. There are many different techniques to measure penis length, including the amount of force the clinician uses to stretch the penis.
Also, some men will see a significant change in penis length once it is erect. Others will notice that their penis only becomes more rigid. There is not a number that men should set as their benchmark.
Some medical conditions and surgical procedures can reduce the length of your penis. We cannot always restore the length you lose.
The biggest take-home for patients regarding this is to keep a healthy weight. Get care if you feel like your erections are not rigid enough or if you have other concerns about your penis.
5. How Long Should My Erection Last During Sex?
The answer to this question is completely different per person. There is not a standard time that all men should be able to maintain an erection.
For most men, the goal is to get an erection that is rigid enough for penetrative sex and that lasts until both partners are satisfied. We counsel patients that if an erection has lasted over three to four hours and is painful, they should get care with the nearest emergency room. This condition is called priapism.
6. What Is Considered Premature Ejaculation?
There is not a standard amount of time that an erection should last before ejaculating. The AUA defines premature ejaculation as "ejaculation that occurs sooner than desired, either before or shortly after penetration, causing distress to either one or both partners."
There is not a lab test that can determine this. This diagnosis is made based on a patient's report and a physician assessment. Treatment options are available. Your provider can help you decide which is best for you.
7. You Don't Ejaculate After an Orgasm—What Causes This?
Various surgeries or medications can cause a man not to ejaculate after an orgasm. This is called anejaculation. The semen can also go backwards into the bladder, which is called retrograde ejaculation. Common causes of anejaculation can be associated with:
- Prostatectomy or other prostate procedures such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP)
- Taking Flomax (Tamsulosin)
- Diabetes
- Nerve injuries
8. Are Orgasms and Ejaculation Different?
Yes. Typically, an orgasm is the pleasure you experience while ejaculating. Men can have an orgasm without ejaculation. Men can also ejaculate before orgasm. Additionally, it’s possible to have an orgasm and ejaculation without an erection that is satisfying for sex. These conditions can have various causes, some that can be identified and treated, and others that can't.
9. How Much Ejaculate Should I Have?
Ideally, men should have at least 1.5mL of ejaculate. This is equal to 0.304 US teaspoons, so it is not a large volume. As men age, the amount of ejaculate begins to decrease. If you notice a big difference suddenly, you'll want to contact your provider.
It's OK to have more, but if you are noticing significantly less over time, especially during the time you are trying to get pregnant, you should see a urologist.
10. Is a Curved Penis Normal?
Some men have a slightly curved penis that has been present for quite some time. If it is not painful and does not bother you, that is normal. If it’s painful or bothers you, then make an appointment with a men's health doctor. Your doctor will evaluate your condition and discuss your treatment options.
If you notice a new curve to your penis and that bothers you with either pain or appearance, be seen by a doctor. This curve can impact your erections, which is another element that can be evaluated and treated.
