Measure for Measure

As a sex therapist, I talk with men about their penises almost every day. As you would expect, size comes up a fair bit. How big is big enough? What can I do to make it bigger? It creates significant anxiety and self-esteem issues. Even with all that awareness, I was shocked to read about Penuma, a silicone device surgically implanted into the shaft of the penis. The FDA approved a similar implant for calves and buttocks, so Penuma was able to skirt the full process. Many men say that they signed consents while under the influence of anesthesia. Of course, it is not a magical cure for increasing penis size. Many patients had negative experiences including numbness, oddly shaped penises, or even ending up with a shorter, thinner penis than they had before.

In sex therapy, I’m working to expand clients’ sexual scripts. You have erogenous zones other than your genitals. Your whole body is full of nerves that can have delightful sensations. People can have fulfilling sex lives without ever using a penis—and so can their partners.

I am very much into the idea that “it’s your body, so it’s your choice;” however, it seems that these patients were not given all the information about the risks of the procedure. It is also worth noting that penis size is “more of a locker-room thing than a bedroom thing.” I couldn’t have said it better myself, Dr. John Mulcahy, clinical professor of urology at the University of Arizona.

Before you consent to a medical procedure, think it through. Stay safe out there.

• If it feels like a provider is trying to sell you something, get a second opinion.

• Read all the forms that the provider has you sign. If you don’t understand something, ask until you get your questions answered.

• If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.