Medical App & Medical Advice with Hello Doctor

What is small penis syndrome? 

Men with small penis syndrome, also known as penile dysmorphic disorder, don’t have an unusually small penis. Instead, they obsessively worry about the size of their penis so much that it causes physical and emotional distress. Sometimes, it can lead to avoidant social behaviour.

Small penis syndrome isn’t a clinical diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual that psychiatrists and psychologists use for diagnosing mental disorders. It is, however, considered a subcategory of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), hyper-focused on the penis.

It’s very common to occasionally worry that your penis may not be large enough, especially after seeing images in the media of larger male genitals. If you can relate to any of the below symptoms, you may be suffering from small penis syndrome.

  • Constantly comparing your penis size to others.
  • Believing your penis is unusually small, despite evidence that it’s not.
  • Placing an unusually high value on penis size.
  • Feeling ashamed or embarrassed about penis size.
  • Difficulty having sex with a partner because of anxiety about penis size.
  • Reduced sexual function, such as being unable to get an erection or having an orgasm.

Some men may experience additional symptoms such as:

  • Repetitive or compulsive behaviour relating to appearance, like grooming or buying clothes.
  • Chronic distress about appearance.
  • Depression or anxiety about appearance.

For men with mild-to-moderate anxiety about their penis size, researching data on average penis sizes or asking a doctor about what makes a micro-penis, may help.

If you’re concerned about your sexual performance, you may find comfort from your partner’s reassurance and support.

Help at hand

Medical treatment can help BDD or anxiety about penis size. Some treatment options include:

  • Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT): Helps you understand how your thoughts affect your feelings and behaviour. It can help you find ways to reduce anxiety.
  • Understanding and addressing triggers: Triggers like pornography or relationship problems can cause penis size anxiety. You can reduce symptoms by identifying your triggers and working towards managing them.
  • Sex therapy or couples counselling: When penis size anxieties affect your relationship or ability to have sex, therapy can help you and your partner work together to overcome the anxiety.

See a doctor for help and support

Here are some questions to ask during your consultation:

  • Is it common to be anxious about penis size?
  • What can I do to overcome my anxiety?
  • Can you refer me to a therapist?
  • Do I have symptoms of BDD?
  • Are there effective strategies for managing sexual dysfunction relating to anxiety?

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