Penis Conditions: The Bizarre and Thankfully Rare

Many men worry about whether their penis is "normal," a concern fueled by the false conception that there is some ideal penis out there in size, shape and function that men would be blessed to have, or to approximate. But the vast majority of men have penises that are perfectly capable of functioning, and so long as they have taken measures to maintain penis health, they really have nothing to worry about. There are certain penis conditions out there that, though rare, contribute to problems in men’s sex lives and other areas. Some of the more interesting are discussed below.

Saxophone Penis
 
Some men have penises in a roughly saxophone shape. The bending may be caused by infections or blocked lymph nodes. Although most men can urinate normally with this condition, sex may be difficult or impossible.

Treating the underlying lymph issue or infection, in combination with penile reconstruction surgery, may be attempted to resolve the problem.

Penis Fracture
 
The penis contains no bones to fracture, but chambers within an erect penis can rupture, creating what is known as a penis fraction. When a man becomes erect, chambers called corpora cavernosa engorge with blood. If a man’s penis bends during a hard thrust while having sex (or practicing inventive masturbation methods), one or both chambers may rupture, allowing blood to escape.

When penis fracture occurs, there is no question as to whether something has gone wrong. Generally, the condition is tremendously painful, accompanied by a loud popping sound and immediate bruising. Men usually need surgery to repair the busted chambers in the penis. Immediate medical attention is highly recommended.

Urethral Stricture
 
A man’s urethra may narrow and begin to close up in response to scar tissue or inflammation from surgery, or from a straddle injury in which he suffered a blow to the manhood. This can cause difficulty urinating and lead to complications including prostatitis and urinary infections. Endoscopic methods, reconstruction of the urethra and a permanent urethral stent are treatment options.

Invaginated Penis
 
In rare cases, a penis can actually retreat into the subcutaneous fat layers of a man’s body, leaving behind an empty sheath like an elephant’s trunk. A hard blow to the penis can cause this. The invaginated penis generally cannot be used. Surgery is the corrective measure.

Penile Tuberculosis (TB)
 
When one hears "tuberculosis," one thinks of the lungs. This is a bacterial infection that usually affects the lungs, but can affect other parts of the body as well, including the penis. It is thought that men can acquire penile TB by having sex with a partner who has the infection, or by receiving a circumcision from someone infected. Treatment usually takes six months of anti-TB medication. It’s important to get treated, since the infection can create the growth of masses on the manhood that can disfigure it.

The few men affected by the conditions above require medical attention in order to restore penis health. Most men only need to do the basics in this department: wash regularly, keep it protected during sexual encounters and use lubricant to keep the skin in good condition.

Another step men can take toward optimal penile health is to make use of a quality penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) daily. This product contains Shea butter and vitamin D, rich natural moisturizers that help protect the skin from the assault of friction and keep it smooth, soft and supple. Additional benefits are L-arginine and vitamin C, which promote healthy blood flow, a crucial component of erectile function. Regardless of what state a man’s penis is in, using a skin care product just for the member is one way to boost its look and feel. Love what one has, and treat it well.

Four Penis Conditions Men Should Never Ignore - Or Else

The average tough guy is not likely to go running to the doctor for every little ache and pain, and even less prone to seek medical help when minor issues affect the penis skin. No matter how self-confident a man is, very few are appreciative of a relative stranger poking around their parts. On the other hand, some superficial-seeming penis conditions can lead to more significant problems if they do not receive the proper care, so it is important to know when extra attention is needed. Some injuries and skin conditions that may seem minor, but can develop into potential health risks, are described here, as well as what men can do to safeguard their penis health for years to come.

1. Scrapes, skin tears and cuts. Tiny scratches, fissures and tears in the surface of the penis skin may seem minor, and in most cases, they do tend to heal on their own. However, these small lesions can spell big trouble if they allow harmful bacteria to penetrate, leading to unpleasant infections. Skin that is persistently irritated by rough handling can also develop a callused outer layer of tissue that can block pleasurable sensation; and at the very least, it is not pleasant to look at or touch. 
   
   Men can take steps to prevent loss of penis feeling by treating their equipment with a little TLC. Skin that is stressed should be allowed to rest and heal, and using a personal lubricant for intimate encounters can help to prevent friction-related injuries. Using a quality moisturizer is also important in helping to maintain smooth, responsive and healthy penile skin.

2. Bruising. A blow to the penis can be momentarily painful; once the initial agony has passed, though, it can be quickly forgotten. However, when bruising occurs, it is a good idea to keep an eye on things and watch for any unusual developments. In rare cases, bruising in the groin area can indicate damaged blood vessels; when the veins are damaged to the point where blood cannot pass through them, the blood may become trapped in the penis, resulting in a dangerous condition known as Priapism. Because this can lead to long-term damage to the penile tissue, or even loss of function altogether, an erection that will not subside after several hours should be treated immediately by a trained medical professional.

3. Persistent itching. An itchy penis can be caused by an allergic reaction or sensitivity to something in the environment. It can also be caused by a fungal infection, which requires specialized treatment. Men who have ongoing itching, especially if it is accompanied by sores or a whitish discharge, should be checked for yeast infection. Furthermore, since recurring yeast infections can be a sign of a more serious underlying health condition such as diabetes, men should not avoid seeing a doctor for this seemingly minor problem.

4. Bending or twisting. Abrupt bending or twisting of the penis can be momentarily quite painful, but it can be easy to forget about such an occurrence once the pain abates. However, severe bending can cause the erectile tissue to tear, leading to the formation of scar tissue. Over a period of time, the scar tissue may form plaques, which can prevent the penis from expanding properly during erections. The subsequent "bowstring" effect causes a pronounced bend in the penis which can be quite painful, and may also make intercourse very difficult. Gentle handling and care is suggested, and men who experience a popping sound and/or severe pain during bending should see a doctor right away. Treating the penis with vitamins A and E may provide some degree of protection from plaque buildup on the erectile tissue.

Nourishing the Penis for Extra Protection
Supporting penis health and protecting the package from lasting damage starts at the cellular level; and in order for the skin, nerve and circulatory tissue to function properly, adequate nutrition is needed. While eating right is the first step to getting all of the nutrients that are needed to support penile health, not all of the vitamins, minerals and other essentials taken in through the diet reach the penis.

Men who use a penis vitamin cream (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) can benefit from skin and nerve-building vitamins, antioxidants, and energy-boosting amino acids. A quality penis cream that is enriched with natural, plant-based emollients can also help to preserve the skin’s self-lubricating properties, helping to protect against injury while keeping the member looking smooth and attractive.

Penis Problems – A Glossary of Common Disorders

Most men are intimately familiar with the landscape of their penis and the surrounding area, and any unusual marks, freckles, blotches, spots, warts or bumps are immediately noticed and scrutinized. Depending on a man’s personal history, it can be easy to jump to conclusions about a recent partner or to worry about the possibility of cancer or disfiguring conditions.

To help men understand the common issues that can affect the penis and determine when immediate penis treatment is needed, a glossary of common penis problems is provided here. While this list is not exhaustive, it covers some of the more common issues that can affect the family jewels.

Acne – As with the rest of the body, the skin of the penis may develop acne pustules, pimples or cysts. Acne on the manhood may appear as red, raised bumps that may have a whitish tip. A whitish material may be expressed from the pimples, but it is not a good idea to squeeze them, as this can spread the bacteria that cause acne and make the problem worse. Acne should clear up on its own, but applying topical vitamin A may help to speed healing.

Balanitis – This is a fairly common and easily treatable condition that affects men who are uncircumcised. Balanitis is characterized by swelling, itching, redness, the appearance of “cracks” on the foreskin, soreness, and a whitish or yellowish discharge. Prescription antibiotics can help to clear up the problem, and men can avoid recurrences by washing carefully under the foreskin.

Folliculitis – Infected hair follicles often occur around the base of the penis, especially in men who shave their pubic hair. The infected area resembles acne, and again, the bumps should not be squeezed. Keeping the area clean and moisturized should help to clear up the issue, and shaving with a new razor and applying a soothing cream afterward may help to prevent the problem from recurring.

Herpes – Herpes simplex is a viral infection that is transmitted through sexual contact. It is characterized by blisters, pain and itching on the penis; the blisters may burst and scab over. Men who contract herpes can pass the infection on to a partner even when no symptoms are present. There is no cure for herpes, and lifelong treatment is needed to manage the symptoms.

Jock Itch – Known medically as tinea cruris, jock itch is a fungal infection that generally affects the groin area, rather than the penis. It appears as a red, spreading rash that may be extremely itchy. Topical antifungal medications can clear up the infection; men should be sure to apply the cream for the entire recommend time period, even if symptoms disappear.

Peyronie’s Disease – This condition, which appears as a severely bent or curved erect penis and shortening of the shaft, is the result of built-up scar tissue related to injury or chronic rough treatment. Peyronie’s disease can cause painful erections and even impotence. Surgery is often the best option for treatment, although many studies have shown positive results from use of vitamin E.

Priapism – This condition is named for a Greek fertility god, but it is not a positive sign. Priapism, an erection that lasts for more than four hours and is not the result of sexual stimulation, occurs when blood becomes trapped in the penis and cannot exit. This is considered a medical emergency and must be treated by a doctor to avoid permanent injury.

Taking care

In addition to knowledge of the penis conditions that may affect sexual health, taking proper care of the package is essential to long-term wellness and function. Eating right, getting plenty of exercise, making smart choices about partners, and keeping it clean are all important in maintaining a healthy penis. Men can also help to boost the body’s natural defenses and keep the equipment in top form by making a penis health formula  (most health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) part of their daily personal care routine. A cream that is enriched with penis-specific vitamins, amino acids, enzymes and antioxidants can be easily absorbed into the targeted tissues, ensuring maximum benefit.

Four Penis Conditions – Decoding Unusual Signs and Symptoms

Men are often less than proactive when it comes to going to the doctor when they are under the weather, often preferring to tough it out at home.  Even still, nothing will send a man running to his doc faster than an unusual bump, discharge, or pain coming from below the belt.  And with good reason; when things go wrong with a man’s equipment, it can affect his physical health as well as his love life.  While a penis rash, bump or lump may be completely benign, it can also indicate a more serious condition such as a sexually transmitted infection (STI).  Four of the most common STIs are described here, along with their most common symptoms.  It is important to be aware of these, so that medical attention can be sought if necessary. Furthermore, use of condoms and engaging in proper penis care in general can help prevent STIs and keep the package healthy and thriving.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is as stubborn as it is common, and once it has found a host, it does not go away easily.  Things to look out for include a pus-like discharge coming from the penis, along with an increased urge to urinate and painful urination.  Gonorrhea needs to be treated, as it may lead to a painful condition known as epididymitis, which can cause infertility.  Gonorrhea can be treated with antibiotics, but some strains are becoming drug-resistant making it even more difficult to treat.

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is often found concurrently with gonorrhea, but it can also occur by itself.  Chlamydia is symptomless in men about 50% of the time – though their female partners are not so lucky and can suffer serious complications.  When symptoms do occur, the man is likely to experience pain and burning during urination, discharge from the penis, swollen and tender testicles and a fever. Sexually active men who are asymptomatic should be screened for the condition regularly, as they can pass chlamydia on to a partner without presenting any outward signs.

Genital herpes

Genital herpes has a more noticeable set of symptoms, as even the most unobservant person is sure to be aware of genital sores.  A genital sore caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus appears as a red, swollen papule that looks like a cold sore.  They can appear on the glans, shaft, anus, or other areas surrounding the genitals.  They may be itchy or painful and may produce a discharge.  Herpes cannot be cured; individuals with herpes simply go through periods of outbreak and remission.  Antiviral drugs can be used to shorten the outbreaks and make them less severe, and ointments may reduce pain associated with the sores.  As with Chlamydia, herpes can be spread even during asymptomatic periods, thus safe sex is imperative to protect one’s partner.

Human papillomavirus (HPV)

Human papillomavirus can produce another easily noticed symptom: genital warts.  The virus is particularly worrisome, as it may increase one’s risk of certain types of cancer.  HPV is highly transmittable, but many carriers are asymptomatic and can therefore transmit the virus to their partners without being aware.

Maintaining Penis Health

While the only surefire way to avoid contracting an STI is abstinence, when used properly and faithfully, condoms are very effective at preventing the spread of infection.  Having a conversation with new partners about sexual health and being in monogamous relationships can also reduce the risk of contracting an STI.  Above all, in the case when a suspicious symptom should appear, it is imperative to seek medical attention immediately; often the treatment is quick and effective.  Another important way to maintain the health of the penis is to have regular check-ups even in the absence of symptoms to prevent accidental spreading of an infection. 

A daily penis care regimen can also keep the penis healthy.  Visual inspections of the penis skin should be conducted as part of a grooming routine to watch for suspicious symptoms. The use of a high-quality penis vitamin cream (most professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) can also contribute to the health of the penis skin.  When choosing a penis crème, men should select one that is packed with vitamins and other nutrients that are especially formulated for use on the penis.

Penis Bumps – Six Common Conditions that Mimic STDs

Very little can cause more alarm in a man than discovering a lump or bump on his penis or scrotum.  The first thought on his mind may be that he is suffering from a sexually transmitted disease (STD). While an unusual bump may indicate something more serious, it is also possible that a bump is just a bump.

In addition to conducting regular self-exams of the genital area to monitor changes, it is important for men to exercise proper penis care and seek medical attention when issues are present..  There are some cases when a bump is harmless and requires no treatment, so if the symptoms described below sound familiar, a sigh of relief may be in order.  However, as with any health issue that pops up out of the ordinary, when in doubt, check it out.  If suspicious lumps and bumps appear in an individual who has recently engaged in unprotected sex, changed sexual partners, engaged in intercourse with a partner who has been previously exposed to an STD, or is experiencing severe pain with their condition, all signs suggest they be checked out by their MD right away.  Always err on the side of caution, as it is far better to have the doctor rule out a bump as harmless, than to not receive treatment when it is needed.

When bumps are harmless

There are several conditions of the male genitalia which are perfectly normal, and could affect virtually any man, sexually active or not.  Paying attention to the size, color, and shape of the lump can help determine if it is cause for concern or not.

1) Angiokertomas.  This condition will present as small red or blueish spots with a thick, wart-like appearance.  They can be found on the glans, shaft or scrotum. Though they are most commonly found on the scrotum of elderly men, they can afflict younger men as well.  Angiokertomas are not infectious and do not require treatment.

2) Cyst.  Cysts are small nodules, about the size of a pea, and are found on the scrotum.  They may be filled with a cheesy or chalky substance and can present a single or multiple bumps.  They do not require treatment, though some men may have them surgically removed out of comfort, or for cosmetic reasons.

3) Hair follicles.  Hair follicles are more prominent on some individuals than on others. They have the appearance of several tiny, unformed nodules beneath the skin of the scrotum and at the base of the shaft of the penis.  Occasionally, one may become infected as an ingrown hair and take on the appearance of a pimple-like bump that may also be filled with white pus.  This is no cause for concern, and the bump should resolve itself in several days.

4) Angiofibromas.  Also known as pearly penile papules, these small dome-shaped or jagged bumps appear around the head of the penis.  A relatively common ailment, occurring in 10-20% of all men, they are more likely to afflict uncircumcised men than those who are circumcised.  These penis bumps are not infectious and do not require medical treatment.

5) Psoriasis.  Psoriasis appears as a red patch with a well-defined border, it may have a scaly or smooth texture.  Psoriasis can result from friction during masturbation or sexual intercourse.  It may require treatment with a steroid cream to fully clear up, but it is not an infections condition. 

6) Lichen Planus.  These tiny pink bumps are often shiny in nature and appear on the glans.  Typically, they form a ring or a line shape and have very fine scales, though sometimes they are smooth.  Lichen planus may or may not be itchy.  The condition may result in similar lesions on other areas of the body such as the wrists and shins, but they are not harmful or infectious.  Most cases of lichen planus resolve within a year on their own, but the condition also responds to medical treatment.

Maintaining penis health

While many of these conditions can appear out of nowhere and tend to resolve on their own, there are steps to be taken to maintain overall penis health.  A high-quality penis vitamin crème (most professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) containing vital nutrients, vitamins and anti-oxidants can help improve the health of the penis. Using the crème daily may help the appearance and health of the penis skin and be soothing to minor irritations caused by common penis ailments.