Common Penis Problems and How to Discuss Them with Your Doctor

Penis problems are bad enough without having to share them with a stranger, but unfortunately, there are issues that can’t be resolved without the help of a doctor. Talking about the private parts with a medical professional can be awkward and uncomfortable, but familiarity with the common terminology for the parts of the penis, as well as common issues that can affect them, may help to get the conversation started and put a man on the road back to good penis health.  

1.    Foreskin. The double layer of tissue that covers the head of the penis in uncircumcised men is known as the foreskin. This serves as a protective barrier against the environment, but it can also develop problems if it is not cared for properly. Poor hygiene is often to blame for a condition known as balanitis, in which the foreskin becomes red, swollen and itchy.

Frequent problems with balanitis may lead to another foreskin-related issue known as phimosis, in which it becomes difficult and painful to retract the foreskin.

2.    Glans. More commonly known to most men as the “head” of the penis, the glans is the rounded tip. Much of the sensitivity of the member is in this concentrated area. Many men report frequent issues with dry skin, rash, and soreness in the area. This is often due to rough masturbation techniques, although other diseases can cause similar symptoms.

In order to protect the glans and reduce the chances of developing problems, it is a good idea to use a personal lubricant at all times during solo sessions.

3.    Shaft. The shaft of the penis gives it its length and girth; this is the part that “grows” during erections. Common issues that affect the shaft include dry skin, discoloration from masturbation, and other skin-related issues.

Many men also have concerns about bends or curves in the shaft of the penis. In fact, some degree of bending or curvature is completely normal; few men have a perfectly straight member. On the other hand, if a bend occurs after an injury and causes pain and/or difficulty engaging in intercourse, Peyronie’s Disease may be diagnosed. This can generally be corrected through outpatient surgery.

4.    Testicles. The testicles are located behind the penis and may hang lower than the organ itself or retract somewhat up into the body – this is usually a response to the temperature in the surrounding environment. This is the part of the body where semen is made and stored for delivery. They are quite delicate and sensitive and should always be protected during sports activities to prevent injury.

Regular self-exams of the testicles are important; men should also have a yearly physical exam that includes a thorough check of the area.

5.    Corpora Cavernosa. Men can’t actually see this part of the penis – the corpora canvernosa are spongy chambers located inside the shaft of the penis. During an erection, they are flooded with blood, causing them to expand and stiffen so that intercourse can take place. Injuries to the shaft of the penis may cause scarring of the connective tissue that surrounds the corpora cavernosa, causing them to expand unevenly during erections.

Daily care for the penis

When penis problems develop, men should always talk to their doctor before attempting any self-treatment; there are many penile conditions that have similar symptoms, but they often require different approaches to treatment. On the other hand, there are steps that men can take on a daily basis to make sure the penis is clean and healthy, reducing the chances that problems will develop in the first place.

Washing every day, including underneath the foreskin, is the first step in this process. After a shower or bath, the penis should be completely dry before putting on clothing. A penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) may be applied at this point in order to supply the penile skin with the targeted nutrients it needs to support healthy cellular function, promote healing, and leave the skin smooth, resilient and responsive.