Penile Curvature: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

Q: Penile Curvature: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

Hello： Generally, professors have extensive clinical experience and their judgments are usually accurate. <br>If there are any issues, you can take a photo of what you believe to be the most problematic area for the physician's reference. <br>Wishing you good health.

Penile curvature

I had a physical examination by a urologist, who stated that there were no hard lumps on my penis and that everything seemed generally fine.
I was concerned because I thought my penis was not very straight when erect and had a downward curve.
Later, Assistant Professor Chen Yu from Chang Gung University’s Urology Department reviewed photos of my penis and mentioned that there was only a 10-degree downward bend, indicating that surgery to straighten it was unnecessary.
However, the issue is that the penis in the photos was not fully erect, and a more cautious approach might involve using techniques to ensure a complete erection for diagnosis.
Additionally, the angle of the photos can affect the appearance of the curvature.
I discussed this with Dr.
Chen, and he seemed to believe that surgery was not needed (though he only viewed the photos).

During my teenage years, I used to masturbate by pressing my penis downwards, but for the past 15 years, I have not used that incorrect method.
Is it possible that the correct masturbation technique over the last 15 years could have contributed to my penis becoming straighter? Or, given that the initial urologist found no hard lumps and deemed my penis to be approximately normal, could the curvature be attributed to congenital factors rather than acquired ones? Thank you, Dr.
Du.

Xiwang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/05/13

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: Generally, professors have extensive clinical experience and their judgments are usually accurate.
If there are any issues, you can take a photo of what you believe to be the most problematic area for the physician's reference.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/05/13

More Info

Understanding penile curvature is essential for addressing concerns related to sexual health and function. Penile curvature can be a natural anatomical variation or may result from underlying conditions. In your case, it appears that you have been evaluated by a urologist who has provided some insights into your condition.

Causes of Penile Curvature
1. Congenital Factors: Some men are born with a natural curvature of the penis. This is often not associated with any pain or functional issues and is considered a normal anatomical variant.

2. Peyronie's Disease: This condition is characterized by the development of fibrous scar tissue inside the penis, leading to curvature during erection. It can cause pain and may affect sexual function. However, your urologist has indicated that there are no hard lumps or plaques, which makes this diagnosis less likely.

3. Trauma: Previous injuries to the penis, whether from sexual activity or other causes, can lead to curvature. If you have experienced any trauma, it could contribute to changes in penile shape.

4. Masturbation Technique: As you mentioned, the way you used to masturbate could potentially influence the curvature. Consistent pressure in one direction over time may lead to changes in the penile structure, although this is less common.

Diagnosis
The diagnosis of penile curvature typically involves a physical examination by a qualified urologist. In some cases, a penile ultrasound may be performed to assess for any underlying conditions such as Peyronie's disease. Your concern about the angle of curvature being assessed from a photograph is valid; the curvature can appear different based on the angle and the state of erection. A thorough examination during a full erection is indeed the most accurate way to assess the degree of curvature.

Treatment Options
1. Observation: If the curvature is mild (as in your case, with only a 10-degree bend) and does not cause pain or interfere with sexual function, your urologist may recommend simply monitoring the situation.

2. Medication: In cases of Peyronie's disease, medications may be prescribed to help reduce curvature or pain. These can include oral medications or injections directly into the scar tissue.

3. Surgery: Surgical options are typically reserved for more severe cases where curvature significantly impacts sexual function or causes pain. Surgery can involve procedures to straighten the penis or to remove the scar tissue.

4. Penile Traction Therapy: This non-invasive treatment involves using a device to apply gentle traction to the penis, which may help reduce curvature over time.

Conclusion
It is understandable to have concerns about penile curvature, especially when it comes to sexual health and function. The fact that your urologist has not found any significant issues is reassuring. If you are still concerned about the curvature or if it begins to cause discomfort or functional problems, consider seeking a second opinion or discussing further diagnostic options with your urologist.
In the meantime, focusing on healthy sexual practices and communication with your partner can help alleviate anxiety surrounding this issue. Remember that many men experience some degree of curvature, and it is often a normal variation without any need for intervention.

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