Everything You Need to Know About Penis Health

What this means

When most people think about penis health, they think about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and erectile dysfunction (ED).

While these conditions can certainly affect the health of your penis, penile health is about so much more than that.

There are many different things that can affect the health of your penis, including your hygiene practices, lifestyle changes, and any underlying health conditions.

Here’s what you need to know to keep your penis in tip-top shape.

What affects penis health?

Many different things can affect penis health. And by “penis health,” we mean:

• your ability to urinate comfortably
• your ability to get or maintain an erection
• your fertility

Penis health also includes avoiding certain health conditions, such as penile cancer and STIs.

The following factors can affect the health of your penis:

Hormone levels

ED can be caused by hormone imbalances, such as a low testosterone level. Low testosterone levels can be caused by a number of different factors, which we’ll discuss in this article.

Age

As you age, you’re more likely to experience sexual dysfunctions like ED. This is partly because your testosterone level will naturally decline over time.

Health conditions

High blood pressure, diabetes mellitus, and certain neurological conditions can cause ED. Psychological conditions such as anxiety and depression can also exacerbate ED.

Sex

If you want to have sex without a condom, ensure that both you and your partners are tested regularly for STIs, or remain in a monogamous relationship with someone free of STIs.

Otherwise, correctly using a condom every time you have sex is the only way to reduce your risk.

Rough sex can also harm your penis. For example, pulling back the foreskin abruptly can tear it. Accidentally bending your erect penis can cause a traumatic penis fracture.

Medication

Some forms of medication can increase your chances of ED. Speak to a doctor or other healthcare provider if you think your medication is causing ED or other sexual dysfunction.

Hygiene

Practicing good hygiene is essential for your health. Wash your penis and groin area often to keep it clean.

Poor hygiene can cause a build-up of smegma, an oily, malodorous, and irritating substance that is known to occur below the foreskin.

If smegma builds up, it can cause inflammation to the adjacent skin. This can be uncomfortable and can be a cause balanitis, a condition where the head of the penis becomes red and inflamed.

Even with a circumcised penis, less than ideal hygiene can lead to penile irritation and inflammation, including balanitis.