My 8yr old son has extremely small private area that never gets erect. husband n i worried something may be wrong. other sons are ok. should we worry?

Not necessarily: 8 is kind of young for puberty. Genital growth and erection is usually limited before puberty. If he starts developing secondary sex characteristics like pubic and armpit hair, and you haven't noticed any change, see your pediatrician. Hope this helps!

Needs assessment: If you have concerns he should be assessed by his Pediatrician. You have already identified that what you observe is different than his siblings. Everything may be fine but better not to worry and have him examined. Examining genitalia or private parts is a routine and necessary part of a physical exam growing up. All the best.

The Greenwood, S.C.,: Genetic Center's " Growth References from Conception to Adulthood" contains charts with the range of normal for age for any body part that can be measured. Other reference books exist, as well. Your son's pediatrician or a pediatric endocrinologist can measure his penile & testicular size with accuracy & differentiate a micropenis from a normal-sized penis concealed by a supra-pubic fat pad.

Growth: If its extremely small, it should be checked yearly as is by his pediatrician. If they are worried they might have to send him to an endocrinologist, sometimes can be attributed with a growth hormone deficiency. If we are a little overweight it can also give an impression of a hidden penis.