Does circumcision affect erections and masturbation?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 32-year-old man. It has been three months since my circumcision. Since the surgery, I have been having difficulty getting a full erection, and I also experience premature ejaculation. Please let me know the following things:

Can I apply petroleum jelly to the tip of my penis (glans)? Is it safe, and will it help?
How long does it usually take before I can return to normal masturbation after circumcision?
I have had hypothyroidism for the past 10 years and take treatment for it. Could my thyroid condition be contributing to these problems?
Also, whenever I masturbate, the glans becomes swollen afterward. Is this normal, or should I be concerned?

Please help.

Thank you in advance.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern.

After three months of circumcision, the surgical wound is usually completely healed. Therefore, normal masturbation is generally safe if there is no pain, open wound, bleeding, or discomfort.

Swelling of the glans (the head of the penis) after masturbation can sometimes occur due to friction, temporary fluid buildup, or irritation of the sensitive skin. If the swelling reduces within a few hours and is not associated with severe pain, pus discharge, fever, or worsening symptoms, it is usually not a cause for concern.

Petroleum jelly can be applied in a small amount if the glans feels dry or sensitive. It acts as a moisturizer and protective barrier, but it does not treat erectile dysfunction (difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection) or premature ejaculation (ejaculation that occurs sooner than desired).

If you are using latex condoms, avoid applying petroleum jelly because oil-based products can weaken latex and increase the risk of condom breakage.

Difficulty with erections and premature ejaculation are not common direct consequences of circumcision. Since you have had hypothyroidism for 10 years, it is important to ensure that your thyroid levels are well controlled.

Untreated or poorly controlled hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone levels) can sometimes affect sexual health by reducing sexual desire (libido), contributing to erectile difficulties, and affecting ejaculation.

Could you please let me know:

Are you taking your thyroid medication regularly?
When was your last thyroid function test, especially your TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) level?
Do you still experience morning erections?

These details will help better understand the possible causes of your symptoms.

I hope this helps.

Kindly revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.