"Do I have a big enough penis? Does it look weird? Should I have my pubes shaved?": Genital Self-Image and its Implications for Sexual Well-Being Among University Men

Abstract

Genital self-image (GSI), encompassing individuals’ thoughts and feelings regarding their genital appearance and functionality, remains underexplored among men, particularly during the formative university period. While initial research suggests moderately positive GSI among men, existing studies predominantly focus on penis size and overlook other aspects of men's GSI (e.g., pubic hair, genital functionality, and overall genital aesthetics). Recent quantitative studies have explored the link between GSI and sexual well-being; however, there is a lack of qualitative research exploring these dynamics to capture the lived experiences of men. This study, rooted in the theoretical framework of hegemonic masculinity, used interpretative phenomenological analysis on interviews with five Dalhousie University men. Six themes were identified and developed into interpretations of the meanings of the phenomenon (GSI) and its impact on three dimensions of sexual well-being: sexual activity, sexual functioning, and sexual satisfaction. The findings contribute to the ongoing discourse surrounding men’s GSI and offer insights, emphasizing the importance of addressing negative genital perceptions and promoting genital acceptance for fostering positive GSI and improving sexual well-being among men. Understanding and addressing men's GSI can facilitate health promotion efforts aimed at promoting positive GSI and, consequently, enhancing sexual well-being among men.