INQUIRY FOR A MALE UROLOGIST
Recently, my 17-year-old son approached me, expressing a desire to discuss a matter that left him feeling quite apprehensive and embarrassed. Uncertain of how to articulate his thoughts or gauge my response, he hesitated to bring it up. Completely oblivious to the subject at hand, I reassured him that he should feel no shame in sharing and that I was here to help him however I could. He promised to elaborate during our next moment of privacy. Later that evening, while out for a drive, he revealed that the issue pertains to his genital area. I encouraged him to speak openly, assuring him that our conversation would remain confidential. He explained that a few nights prior, he experienced discomfort resembling cramping in the area behind his scrotum, near his anus, during masturbation. I inquired about the duration of this occurrence and at what specific moment the pain manifests. He mentioned that the discomfort began just a couple of nights ago and occurs right before climax. He shared that while he engages in masturbation nearly every night, the pleasurable sensations he once enjoyed have changed; now, the act feels satisfying while it’s happening, but the cramping strikes at the moment of ejaculation. I expressed my inability to provide a definitive explanation for his symptoms, emphasizing that he shouldn't feel embarrassed discussing these topics with me, as I am a man myself. I assured him I would keep our conversation private from his mother and promised to seek out information that could help us understand this situation better.
Answers (1)
8/7/2025, 5:20:43 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable that discussing sensitive topics like genital discomfort can be challenging for both you and your son. The symptoms he’s experiencing, including cramping and discomfort behind the scrotum during masturbation, may be caused by various factors. These could include muscle strain, tension, or potentially an issue related to the reproductive system.
Explanation
The area behind the scrotum includes structures like the prostate and seminal vesicles, which can influence sensations during ejaculation. Discomfort at this moment may arise from muscle tension or is sometimes related to conditions like prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate) or epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis). It’s also not unusual for hormonal changes during adolescence to cause variations in sexual response and sensation.
Next Steps
- Encourage Monitoring: Suggest your son keeps a journal to note the frequency, intensity, and duration of the cramps, as well as any other symptoms he experiences. This could help identify patterns or triggers.
- Relaxation Techniques: Encourage relaxation exercises before masturbation, such as deep breathing or gentle stretching, which may help alleviate tension and discomfort.
- Adjust Timing or Technique: If he feels discomfort specifically at climax, it may be worth exploring changes in timing or technique during masturbation. Encouraging him to slow down the process or experiment with different stimulation approaches might be beneficial.
- Minimize Irritants: Advise him to avoid any irritants, such as tight-fitting clothing or products that may cause sensitivity in the genital area.
- Educate About Anatomy: If possible, share information about male anatomy to help demystify his feelings and create a more comfortable space for him.
If the discomfort persists or worsens, encourage him to consider speaking with a healthcare professional, such as a urologist, who can provide specialized advice. It's important he feels comfortable seeking help when needed, and knowing he has support from you can make a significant difference.
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