Men and Sexuality in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Your sexuality is a key part of who you are. It shapes your relationships, choices, and experiences throughout life. In Grand Rapids, men have access to high‑quality healthcare and confidential sexual health services through local providers like Corewell Health (formerly Spectrum Health), Trinity Health Grand Rapids, University of Michigan Health–West (Metro Health), and the Kent County Health Department.

This guide explains men’s sexual health in clear, straightforward language, with local resources in Grand Rapids, MI.

Looking After Your Sexual Health

Sexual health is just as important as heart health or mental health. In West Michigan, where winters are long and dark and seasonal depression can be common, stress and mood changes can affect your sex life too. Taking care of your body and mind supports healthy sexuality.

Practise Safe Sex

To protect yourself and your partners:

  • Use condoms every time you have vaginal, anal, or oral sex, especially with a new or casual partner
  • Consider dental dams for oral sex
  • Get regular STI testing if you are sexually active with more than one partner or not always using condoms
  • Talk openly with partners about STI history, testing, and contraception

In Grand Rapids, you can access condoms and STI testing through:

  • Pharmacies and supermarkets across the city
  • Kent County Health Department clinics
  • Primary care and sexual health clinics at Corewell Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, and Metro Health

Puberty and Sexual Development in Boys and Young Men

For most boys, puberty starts around age 12 (sometimes earlier or later). This is when your sexual and reproductive organs mature and your body begins to change.

Common Physical Changes

  • Increased height and muscle growth
  • Growth of the penis and testicles
  • Hair growth on the face, underarms, chest, and around the genitals
  • Voice deepening
  • Erections (sometimes without any clear reason)
  • Wet dreams (ejaculating while you sleep)
  • Possible temporary breast tissue changes (small, tender lumps under the nipples) – this is usually normal and goes away

Common Emotional Changes

  • Mood swings and feeling more emotional
  • Feeling different or self‑conscious about your body
  • Increased interest in sex, dating, or relationships
  • Feeling frustrated or confused about sexual thoughts or fantasies

These changes are normal. If you’re worried, you can talk to a trusted adult or a doctor. In Grand Rapids, pediatricians and family doctors at Corewell Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, and Metro Health are experienced in helping boys and young men navigate puberty.

Masturbation and Men

What Is Masturbation?

Masturbation is touching or rubbing parts of your body, usually your genitals, for sexual pleasure. For example, you might touch or rub your penis until you ejaculate or “come.”

Is Masturbation Normal?

Yes. Masturbation is a normal and common part of sexuality for many boys and men.

  • Many people start masturbating at some point in childhood or adolescence
  • It can feel good and help you relax or cope with stress
  • There is no single “normal” amount – some men masturbate several times a day, week, or month, and others not at all

Masturbation is only a problem if:

  • It interferes with school, work, relationships, or daily life
  • You feel compelled to do it in unsafe or public places
  • You feel distressed or ashamed and can’t stop thinking about it

If this is happening, consider talking to a GP, psychologist, or sex therapist. In Grand Rapids, mental health and sexual health support is available through local clinics and counseling centers.

Before any sexual activity:

  • Both partners must clearly agree to have sex
  • Consent must be freely given, not pressured, forced, or manipulated
  • You can change your mind at any time, even after things have started
  • Being drunk, high, or asleep means a person cannot give proper consent

You always have the right to say no, and so does your partner.

Sexual Orientation and Attraction

Men experience sexual attraction in different ways:

  • Some men are attracted to women (straight/heterosexual)
  • Some men are attracted to men (gay)
  • Some are attracted to both men and women (bisexual)
  • Some may not feel sexual attraction to anyone (asexual)
  • Others may use different terms like pansexual, queer, or may still be exploring

Exploring your sexuality—especially when you are young—is common and normal. If you are an adult and your partner is also an adult, and you both give consent, it is usually safe and legal to explore your sexuality.

LGBTQIA+ support is available in West Michigan through local community groups, counselors, and national hotlines.

Safe Sex and Contraception in Grand Rapids

Safe sex is about more than preventing pregnancy—it also protects against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and ensures sex is respectful and enjoyable for both partners.

Protecting Against STIs and Unplanned Pregnancy

  • Use condoms every time you have sex with a new partner
  • Consider additional contraception (e.g., birth control pills, IUD) if you are having vaginal sex and want to avoid pregnancy
  • Get regular STI screenings, especially if you have multiple partners or don’t always use condoms

Condoms are inexpensive and widely available in Grand Rapids at:

  • Pharmacies (Meijer, Walgreens, CVS, etc.)
  • Supermarkets
  • Some community health centers and college health clinics

The Kent County Health Department and local hospital systems offer STI testing and treatment.

What Is Healthy Sex?

Healthy sex is not just about avoiding pregnancy or infection. It also means:

  • Having sex with the right person for you
  • Having sex only when you are both ready
  • Having the kind of sex you both want and enjoy
  • Choosing a time and place where you both feel comfortable and safe
  • Feeling respected, listened to, and emotionally safe

If you feel pressured, afraid, or disrespected, that is not healthy sex.

Sexual Assault and Abuse

What Is Sexual Assault?

Sexual assault is any unwanted sexual behavior or activity that makes someone feel uncomfortable, frightened, or threatened. It includes:

  • Rape
  • Child sexual abuse
  • Indecent assault
  • Any sexual activity without consent
  • Using threats or violence to force someone into sexual activity

These acts are about power and control, not desire or pleasure. Men and women can both be victims.

Effects of Sexual Assault

Sexual assault can affect people in many ways, including:

  • Shock and denial
  • Shame and embarrassment
  • Fear and anxiety
  • Depression
  • Guilt and self‑blame
  • Low self‑esteem and loss of confidence
  • Isolation and withdrawal
  • Nightmares and flashbacks
  • Mood swings
  • Loss of trust in others

If you are in immediate danger or need urgent help, call 911.

If you have been sexually assaulted in Grand Rapids, you can:

  • Go to the nearest emergency department (e.g., Corewell Health Butterworth Hospital, Trinity Health Grand Rapids)
  • Contact local sexual assault crisis services or national hotlines for confidential support
  • Talk to your GP or a mental health professional for ongoing care

You do not have to go through this alone.

Common Sexual Health Issues in Men

Just like any other aspect of health, sexual health can sometimes go wrong. Many men in Grand Rapids and across Michigan experience sexual issues at some point in their lives. Most are treatable, especially with early help.

Premature Ejaculation

Premature ejaculation is when you ejaculate sooner than you or your partner want, causing distress or frustration. It is only considered a problem if it happens regularly and bothers you or your partner.

If this is happening:

  • Talk to your doctor – this is a very common issue
  • Avoid self‑diagnosing; a professional can help identify causes and treatments

Common treatments may include:

  • Behavioral techniques (e.g., “stop–start” or “squeeze” methods)
  • Kegel exercises to strengthen pelvic floor muscles
  • Psychotherapy or counseling, especially if anxiety is involved
  • Topical creams or methods to reduce penile sensation
  • Certain antidepressant medications (SSRIs or tricyclics) used at low doses to delay ejaculation
  • Occasionally, treatments used for erectile dysfunction

Doctors in Grand Rapids—urologists, GPs, and sexual health specialists—can provide assessment and treatment plans.

Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

Erectile dysfunction is difficulty getting or keeping an erection firm enough for sex. It is very common, especially as men get older or develop chronic health conditions.

Physical Causes of ED

ED often has a physical cause, including:

  • Diabetes
  • Heart disease or circulation problems
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Obesity
  • Smoking
  • Side effects of some medications

Cold Michigan winters and reduced physical activity can worsen conditions like high blood pressure and cholesterol, which in turn affect erections.

Psychological Causes of ED

ED can also be caused or made worse by:

  • Stress (including work or financial stress)
  • Relationship problems
  • Anxiety (especially performance anxiety)
  • Depression

It’s normal to experience ED occasionally, especially if you are very tired, stressed, or have been drinking alcohol. But if it becomes frequent or persistent, talk to your doctor.

ED Treatments

Treatment depends on the cause and may include:

  • Lifestyle changes (exercise, quitting smoking, reducing alcohol, healthy diet)
  • Counseling or sex therapy
  • Oral medications (e.g., PDE5 inhibitors prescribed by your doctor)
  • Vacuum erection devices
  • Penile injections
  • Surgical implants, in more severe or long‑term cases

Local urologists and men’s health clinics in Grand Rapids can provide evaluation and tailored treatment.

Reduced Libido (Low Sex Drive)

Your libido is your desire to have sex. It varies from person to person and can change throughout your life.

Common Causes of Low Libido

  • Low testosterone levels
  • Chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or heart disease
  • Depression or other mental health conditions
  • Side effects of certain medications (including some antidepressants or blood pressure drugs)
  • Obesity and low energy levels
  • Relationship issues or unresolved conflict
  • Stress, burnout, or seasonal mood changes (including seasonal affective disorder, which can be more common in Michigan’s darker winter months)

If you notice a drop in your sex drive and it worries you, see your doctor. They can:

  • Check your hormone levels
  • Review your medications
  • Screen for underlying medical or mental health issues
  • Explain options to help improve your libido

Male Fertility

Male fertility naturally changes with age. As you get older:

  • The quality of sperm tends to decline
  • The risk of difficulty conceiving may increase
  • There is a higher chance of miscarriage when the father is over 45

Other factors that can affect male fertility include:

  • Smoking and heavy alcohol use
  • Obesity
  • Untreated STIs
  • Hormonal problems
  • Testicular injuries or infections
  • Certain medications or exposures at work

If you and your partner are having trouble getting pregnant, it’s important for both of you to be evaluated. In Grand Rapids, fertility assessments and treatment are available through local hospital systems and specialized fertility clinics.

Sex and Aging: Tips for Older Men in Grand Rapids

You are never too old to have sex, but your sexual function may change with age.

As men get older:

  • Testosterone levels gradually decline
  • Orgasms may be shorter
  • You may produce less semen
  • It may take longer to get another erection after sex

Cold winters, less physical activity, and chronic conditions common in Michigan (like heart disease and diabetes) can also influence sexual health.

Tips for Maintaining a Rewarding Sex Life

  • Keep talking to your partner – share your needs, desires, and concerns
  • Stay physically active – walking, swimming, or indoor exercise can help circulation and energy
  • Eat a healthy diet – focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
  • Limit alcohol and avoid smoking
  • Manage chronic conditions (diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, depression) with the help of your doctor
  • Talk to your doctor about any specific sexual problems
  • Consider seeing a sex therapist or counselor if emotional or relationship issues are involved

Ask your GP in Grand Rapids for a referral to a psychologist, urologist, or certified sex therapist if needed.

Intimacy Beyond Sex

Intimacy is not limited to intercourse. Many couples stay close and sexually satisfied by:

  • Kissing and cuddling
  • Touching and massage
  • Sharing emotional closeness and affection
  • Exploring different types of sexual activity that feel comfortable and pleasurable for both partners

If you are planning to have sex with a new partner, continue to use condoms and practice safe sex—STIs can affect people at any age.

Local and National Support Resources

If you need help with sexual health, mental health, or relationship concerns, you can:

  • Talk to your GP (family doctor)
  • See a sex therapist, psychologist, or counselor
  • Visit local sexual health clinics (for example, a Grand Rapids Sexual Health Centre or hospital‑based clinic)
  • Contact national helplines for confidential support

If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.

Key Points

  • Your sexuality is a key part of who you are, and looking after your sexual health is important.
  • Practising safe sex, understanding consent, and respecting your partner are essential for healthy relationships.
  • Common men’s sexual health issues—such as premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, reduced libido, and fertility problems—are common and often treatable.
  • Men of all ages in Grand Rapids can access confidential, professional help through local healthcare providers and mental health services.
  • You are never too old to have a satisfying sex life, and intimacy includes much more than intercourse.