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How Sensitive Is the Neophallus? Postphalloplasty Experienced and Objective Sensitivity in Transmasculine Persons
Lian Elfering1, Tim C van de Grift2, Muhammed Al-Tamimi1
1Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Introduction:
Tactile and erogenous sensitivity of the neophallus after phalloplasty is assumed to affect the sexual well-being of transmasculine persons and, ultimately, their quality of life. The experienced and objective sensation of the neophallus and their association are largely unknown.
Aim:
This study evaluated experienced tactile and erotic sensation of the neophallus in transmasculine persons and investigated how this was related to objective tactile sensitivity.
Methods:
Between August 2017 and January 2020, 59 transmasculine persons who underwent phalloplasty were recruited to participate in a prospective follow-up study. Tactile sensitivity of the neophallus and donor-site was measured (Semmes-Weinstein Monofilament test) and compared, and participants were asked to fill out a questionnaire about experienced sensation of the neophallus and sexual wellbeing.
Main Outcome Measures:
Experienced and objective sensation of the neophallus were measured by using a questionnaire and Semmes-Weinstein Monofilament scores.
Results:
Neophallic tactile sensitivity was significantly reduced compared to the donor-site (n = 44), with the proximal part being more sensitive than the distal part (median follow-up of 1.8 years, range 1.0-7.2)). Sensitivity of the neophallus was not significantly associated with the surgical flap used, yet increased significantly with follow-up time. The questionnaire was completed by 26 participants of which 24 (92.3%) experienced (some degree of) tactile sensitivity in their neophallus. Erogenous sensation was experienced by 23 (88.5%). Experienced and objectified tactile sensitivity were not significantly correlated (Spearmans's rho = 0.23, P = .26). Answers to open-ended questions showed that results often do not match expectations.
Conclusion:
Tactile sensation of the neophallus was reduced in most transmasculine persons and improved slowly over time. A significant association between subjective and objective measures could not be detected. Although experienced sensitivity varied between individuals, the vast majority reported to have tactile and erotic sensitivity in the neophallus.Transmasculine persons should be informed that sensitivity of the neophallus will likely be reduced. Elfering L, van de Grift TC, Al-Tamimi M, et al. How Sensitive Is the Neophallus? Postphalloplasty Experienced and Objective Sensitivity in Transmasculine Persons. Sex Med 2021;9:100413.
