Dear mskeyz,

SAn erection sometimes causes a slight bulge in jeans, but it is usually not very noticeable.

When a guy gets sexually aroused, the erectile tissue in his penis relaxes. Blood flows into it at a faster rate than it flows out (called vasocongestion). This causes the penis to get larger and harder. This is called an erection. But sometimes erections happen when a guy isn't aroused — the erectile tissue relaxes without arousal. That's called a spontaneous erection.

Spontaneous erections are completely normal, but sometimes they can feel embarrassing. Fortunately, a spontaneous erection will go away pretty quickly if you ignore it. You can sing a song in your head, or try to say the alphabet backward to get your mind off of it. Or try to think about anything that isn't at all arousing.

Spontaneous erections happen to a lot of teenagers, because hormones levels change so much during adolescence. During the year or so they happen, it may be a good idea to be carrying something like a book bag, gym bag, or back pack to hold in front of your crotch area if you get a spontaneous erection and you want to cover it up.

Spontaneous erections happen less and less frequently as you get older. They also seem to happen less frequently for men who have recently ejaculated by masturbating or by having sex with a partner.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.