Can phalloplasty affect the individual’s ability to have penetrative sexual intercourse?

Yes, phalloplasty can affect the individual’s ability to have penetrative sexual intercourse. The type of phalloplasty, the technique used, and the individual’s anatomy all play a role in the outcome.

In general, phalloplasty can provide enough length and girth for penetrative sexual intercourse. However, some individuals may experience numbness or decreased sensation in the penis, which can make intercourse less pleasurable. Additionally, some individuals may not be able to achieve or maintain an erection after phalloplasty.

There are a number of techniques that can be used to improve the outcome of phalloplasty for sexual function. For example, the surgeon may choose to use a nerve graft to improve sensation. Additionally, the surgeon may use a technique called vascularized inlay grafting, which can help to maintain an erection.

If you are considering phalloplasty, it is important to talk to your surgeon about your sexual function goals. They can help you to choose the best technique for you and to manage any potential risks.

Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:

• The Trevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/: A national organization that provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ youth.
• GLAAD: https://www.glaad.org/: An organization that works to promote acceptance of LGBTQ people.
• PFLAG: https://pflag.org/: An organization that provides support and education to LGBTQ people, their families, and allies.

Phalloplasty is a surgical procedure that is specifically designed to create a neophallus (newly constructed penis) for individuals with gender dysphoria who desire a more male or non-binary external genital appearance and, in many cases, the ability to engage in penetrative sexual intercourse. The extent to which phalloplasty can facilitate penetrative sexual intercourse depends on several factors:

1. Surgical Technique: The choice of surgical technique can impact the ability to have penetrative sexual intercourse. Many phalloplasty procedures include the creation of a neourethra and a neophallus that can achieve erections. Some surgical techniques also incorporate erectile devices or implants to facilitate rigidity and penetration during intercourse.
2. Erectile Function: The achievement of an erection is an important factor in penetrative sexual intercourse. Phalloplasty procedures that include the creation of erectile tissue or implants aim to provide individuals with the ability to achieve and maintain erections for intercourse.
3. Sensation: Sensation in the neophallus is another important consideration. While sensation can vary among individuals, some people experience heightened sensation in the neophallus, which can enhance sexual pleasure and satisfaction during intercourse.
4. Post-Operative Care: Following phalloplasty, individuals may require post-operative care and interventions to optimize their sexual function and the ability to engage in penetrative intercourse. This may include using medications, vacuum erection devices, or other treatments.
5. Communication and Adaptation: Open communication with sexual partners is essential for satisfying sexual experiences. Individuals who have undergone phalloplasty and their partners can explore different techniques and positions to enhance sexual satisfaction and adapt to the individual’s anatomy.