Read more
Men tend to ignore their health until forced to. Though uncomfortable for some, penis health is a critical litmus for underlying issues.
Men often ignore health concerns. Penis wellness is an important litmus. Picture iStock
Men tend to overlook their health until something forces them to take notice. But when things go wrong and it’s left this late, they can really go wrong.
Penis health is not exactly something Adams think about, it’s not comfortable to contemplate. It is essential though and taking care down there goes well beyond a wash and shine, said Dr Jonathan Redelinghuys. It can be a litmus for many health concerns and conditions.
“The penis is a reliable indicator of general health. Persistent issues like erectile dysfunction or pain are often linked to conditions like poor circulation, hormone imbalances, or even undiagnosed medical problems,” said Dr Redelinghuys.
Cardiovascular health plays a major role in sexual function. Blood flow is everything, and what’s good for your heart is good for your penis. A diet rich in fruit, vegetables, and lean protein helps maintain healthy circulation and keeps things working down there as they should,” he said.
Conversely, high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity can contribute to erectile dysfunction and lower testosterone levels.
Exercise is a cliché, but it’s a mantra for penile wellness. “Regular movement improves circulation, maintains a healthy weight, and reduces stress. Obesity is a big risk factor for sexual health problems. A man carrying too much weight is more likely to experience lower testosterone and erectile dysfunction,” said Dr Redelinghuys. Smoking doesn’t help either. “Smoking damages blood vessels and reduces blood flow, which can make it difficult to achieve or maintain an erection. The same goes for excessive alcohol consumption.”
ALSO READ: Sangoma on life after the VAT U-turn
But exercise, puffing away and too many beers are not the only concerns a guy should have. Even undies play a role in the wellness of a man’s crown jewels.
“Testicles need to be cooler than the rest of the body to produce healthy sperm,” said Dr Redelinghuys. “Tight underwear presses them up against the body and raises the temperature, which can impair sperm production. Underpants like boxers allow for better airflow, making them a better choice for reproductive health,” he said.
Studies have backed this up, showing that men who wear boxers may have higher sperm counts and better motility than those who stick to briefs.
And then, there is work, stress and bedtime. But not the hanky panky kind. Quality sleep.
“Chronic stress and lack of sleep disrupt hormone levels. This in turn can result in low testosterone levels that can affect libido and overall penis function,” he said. “Rest is critical, and stress needs to be managed in healthy ways.”
Of course, hygiene should be a given. A good car wash checks under the bonnet. So should men.
“Good hygiene prevents infections and other complications. Uncircumcised men need to clean under the foreskin daily to avoid irritation and infections. A little attention to hygiene goes a long way in preventing unnecessary problems,” Dr Redelinghuys noted.
He also said that men must get into the habit of regular medical check-ups.
Penis shape doesn’t really matter, unless it is significant.
“A slight curve is normal, but when there’s a significant bend and pain during an erection, it could be Peyronie’s disease. This is usually caused by scar tissue from an injury and can be quite uncomfortable. If you suspect something isn’t right, get it checked out sooner rather than later,” he said.
There’s also the myth that if you abstain from sex for a while, your penis forgets how to do it. “There’s no real evidence to support that,” said Dr Redelinghuys. “While regular sex has health benefits and keeps libido strong, stopping for a while does not create a challenge.
“Some men also notice a reduction in ejaculate volume from time to time and worry that something is wrong. This is called perceived ejaculate volume reduction and can be caused by factors like medication, depression, or underlying testicular conditions. If the change is significant, it’s worth investigating, but it’s not always a sign of a serious issue.
“Many wait until there’s a serious problem before seeking help, but early detection of conditions like Peyronie’s disease, prostate issues, or hormonal imbalances can make a huge difference in treatment outcomes,” Dr Redelinghuys said.
Some conditions are less common but more serious. It can also be somewhat self-inflicted during a wild play of passion or misuse, so to speak.
“Penile fractures can happen, and they are a medical emergency,” said Dr Redelinghuys.
He’s seen several instances of this over the years. “They’re usually the result of forceful trauma during sex. If you hear a popping sound followed by pain and swelling, get to a hospital immediately.”
While rare, these kinds of injuries do underline the importance of being mindful that the penis is not indestructible during any kind of sexual activity. “Also, it would be advisable not to stuff objects into the urethra, or the small channel inside your penis,” Dr Redelinghuys added. “It can seriously injure and possibly even impede future use of your manhood.”
On the bright side, there are exercises that men can do to both improve sexual performance and penile wellness.
“Most men don’t think about their pelvic floor, but strengthening those muscles can improve ejaculation control and support erectile function. Kegel exercises are simple and highly effective.”
Staying well hydrated and taking frequent walks are recommended, while foods like spinach, spicy food with capsaicin and avocados help with testosterone levels.
NOW READ: Seven secrets to better female orgasms – expert
Download our app