Penis size varies from man to man. According to one study, race and ethnicity have nothing to do with penis size. Penis shrinkage can be a concerning issue for many men. While some degree of natural shrinking may occur as men age, there are various medical conditions and lifestyle factors that can contribute to this problem. In an interaction with OnlyMyHealth Dr Amit Mutha, Consultant Sexual Medicine and Andrology, SL. Raheja Hospital, Mahim – A Fortis Associate, explained all about penis shrinkage.
Here are seven possible causes of penis shrinkage:
Peyronie's disease
This is a condition in which scar tissue develops inside the penis, leading to curvature and in some cases, shrinkage. It can cause pain and discomfort during erections. As per Dr Amit this disease can cause erectile dysfunction.
Low testosterone levels
Testosterone is the male sex hormone responsible for maintaining many bodily functions, including sexual health. Low levels of testosterone can lead to reduced penile size and erectile dysfunction.
Diabetes
Diabetes can damage nerves and blood vessels, leading to reduced blood flow to the penis and shrinkage. According to a 2017 meta-analysis of 145 research, more than half of men with diabetes suffer from erectile dysfunction. The study covered males with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes, with no difference in findings.
Smoking
Smoking can cause damage to blood vessels and reduce blood flow to the penis, leading to shrinkage and erectile dysfunction. A study discovered that smokers have shorter erect penises than nonsmokers. Experts believe this is because smoking reduces blood flow, preventing the penis from expanding and perhaps shortening the penis.
Obesity
Being overweight or obese can contribute to poor blood flow and hormonal imbalances, which can lead to penis shrinkage.
Medications
Certain medications, such as those used to treat prostate cancer, can lead to penis shrinkage as a side effect.
Lack of physical activity
Regular exercise is important for maintaining overall health, including sexual health. A sedentary lifestyle can lead to poor circulation and hormonal imbalances, which can contribute to penis shrinkage.
According to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center studies, men who exercise more were good at performing sexual activities.
It's important to note that while some degree of shrinkage may occur naturally as men age, significant or sudden changes in penile size should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
Treatment
The treatment for penis shrinkage depends on the underlying cause of the condition. In some cases, the treatment may involve addressing lifestyle factors, such as reducing alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, or losing weight. Other treatments may include medication, surgery, or other medical interventions.
It's important to note that penis shrinkage is not always treatable or reversible, and in some cases, the size of the penis may not be able to be restored to its previous size. If you are experiencing penis shrinkage, it's important to speak with a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment options.
