1 in 5 gay men have rejected a hook-up because of their penis size
A poll has found that more than one in five gay men have rejected a sexual partner because of the size of their penis.
The research was carried out by gay men’s health charity GMFA, which surveyed 566 gay and bisexual men about their penis.
The polling, published in FS Magazine, reveals that a shocking 38% of gay men said that their penis size causes them anxiety.
22% admitted they’d rejected someone because of their penis size, while 16% said they’ve had derogatory comments made about their penis.
However, 49% of gay men say that size doesn’t matter, while 36% think it does.
It’s not just length that worries men, either. 28% said they have problems with cumming too quickly, while 21% suffer from erectile dysfunction and have problems cumming at all.
Ian Howley, CEO of GMFA, said: “It goes without saying but the penis is a big part of our sex lives but it also brings a lot of problems too. Many of these are mental issues
“Your relationship with your penis is important. If you think negatively about your penis then this will affect the sex you have, the risks you take and even your self-esteem and self-worth.
“Likewise, if you have a bigger than average penis, this can lead you to be anything from over confident to feeling used at times. Again, this can affect your self-worth and self-esteem.
“It’s important that if you are someone who has confidence issues with your penis and then you should do something about it.”
“Being small has always affected my confidence. I feel less manly,” says Chris, 29 from London. “I have a preference for men to have something substantial, so I feel bad for others who might expect the same with me. I don’t feel body proud. I get very concerned wearing speedos.”
“I didn’t have any context when I was younger. I had a sheltered childhood and was a fat, shy kid,” admits Joseph, 34 from London, “so I thought I was small because I was comparing myself to porn dicks.”
“Quite often I’ve had guys say, ‘you’re not fucking me with that thing. It’ll never fit’ or people have expectations that go with a big cock I get worried I can’t fulfil them,” says James, 38 from Middleborough.
Concerningly, 8% of men said their penis size influences their decision whether to wear a condom or not.
Ian Howley continued: “It’s quite clear that there are issues between gay men and their penis that we need to address. With 8% of gay men telling us that their penis site impacts their decision to wear a condom or not, this means we need to focus more on addressing these issues.
“We at GMFA recommend that you talk to your GP, sexual health professional or a counsellor about any problems you have in relation to your penis – whether that be erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation or anxiety and self-esteem issues.
“All gay men deserve to have the best sex possible. Our penises come in many shapes, sizes and skin tones – just as we do. And like us, our penises need looking after. Just don’t let your penis dictate your whole life.”
Related: Nearly half of gay men have had an open relationship
