Am I “normal”? Do I have VD?

Date: 197-.
Credit: The Miss Margaret Robins Archives of Women’s College Hospital. Dr. Marion Powell fonds, POW-4-0442.

This letter reads:

Dear Dr. Powell,

I am a fifteen year old male and I have two personal problems. My first problem is that whenever I have an erection, my penis stands vertical, that is, it is almost touching my navel. Is this normal or abnormal? If it is abnormal, what can be done to correct it?

My other problem is that I have some kind of rash on my penis and a burning sensation periodically when I urinate. Could this be a sign off V.D.?

I am afraid to see my family doctor about my problems, so I would really appreciate it if you could answer my questions.

(Please don’t print my name in the newspaper)