Genderqueer

The word “genderqueer” is a term used to describe one whose gender identity does not necessarily fit within the male/female gender binary. Gender identity is an inner sense and experience of one’s gender, whether male-identifying, female-identifying, trans*, or non-binary.1 Though many individuals identify with the male or female labels, others reject this strict gender binary. Some identify with specific labels on the spectrum of…

Male Sexual Assault

Disclaimer: We acknowledge that there are many different words that individuals use to describe themselves after experiencing sexual assault. In this article, we only use the term “survivor” for the sake of consistency. We acknowledge that there are many different ways of processing sexual violence, and we believe each individual should be able to choose the language…

Oral Sex and STIs

Oral sex is a sexual activity that uses the mouth, lips, or tongue as a way to stimulate a partner.1 There are many reasons why individuals enjoy oral sex, and it is a much more common sexual activity than people are led to believe. In fact, a statistic from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that more…

Spermatogenesis

Spermatogenesis is the production and development of sperm.  This process begins at puberty and continues for the remainder of a male’s life.  The sperm and the egg, which are the male and female gametes, meet during fertilization.  Both gametes are haploid cells; these cells contain 23 unpaired chromosomes, which is half of the human genetic…

Nongonococcal Urethritis

What Is It? ​Nongonococcal urethritis (NGU) is a broad term describing used to describe an inflammation of the urethra. NGU is caused by the introduction of bacteria, not including gonorrhea. While NGU can be caused by several different microorganisms including Mycoplasma genitalium and adenovirus, the most common NGU-inducing pathogen is chlamydia.1 Who Is at Risk?…

The Prostate Gland

What is the Prostate Gland? The prostate gland is located directly below a male’s bladder. This walnut-shaped gland is small at a male’s birth, but grows significantly during puberty, and enlarges even more as he ages. The prostate is composed of smooth muscle fibers and glandular tissue and is vital to the strength of a male’s…

Male Masturbation

Masturbation is the self-stimulation of the genitals with a hand, sex toy, vibrator, or other object for sexual pleasure. Masturbation can be done alone (solo masturbation) or at the same time as a partner (mutual masturbation). Masturbation is a common and healthy activity that most individuals with penises do regularly throughout their lifetimes. A 2017…

Premature Ejaculation

Premature ejaculation (PE) is the number one sexual difficulty that affects males. In fact, about 1 in 3 males ages 18-59 in the United States have problems with premature ejaculation.1 This issue can be the source of stress, anxiety, and relationship conflict for many males and their partners. However, there are effective strategies available to alleviate…