The male reproductive organ varies in shape and size. Some penile curvature is normal when it is at rest or erect. However, too far of a bend can indicate a more serious condition is occurring. Peyronie’s disease is a connective tissue disorder of the penis, in which scar tissue forms in the deeper tissues under the skin of the male reproductive organ. This results in curved, painful erections that often disrupt sexual function.
The urology team at Richmond University Medical Center specializes in men’s urology health and offers treatment for a wide range of conditions impacting quality of life, including Peyronie’s disease. Here, we explore this condition further, detailing what causes Peyronie’s disease, the signs and symptoms, and possible treatment options from board-certified urologists in Staten Island.
What Causes Peyronie’s Disease?
Experts in the field estimate around 6-10% of males between the ages of 40 and 70 have Peyronie’s disease. The evidence surrounding Peyronie’s disease statistics is inconclusive because many individuals with the condition do not want to talk about it with their healthcare provider. Therefore, Peyronie’s disease may be more widespread than records show.
How Peyronie’s disease is caused is not fully understood. However, researchers have identified factors associated with the condition. Peyronie’s disease is believed to occur due to an injury to an erect penis during sexual intercourse or activity. A person can also sustain injuries that result in damage to the male reproductive organ during athletic activities or accidents. In most cases, men with Peyronie’s disease cannot recall a specific event that preceded changes to their groin area.
During the healing process, scar tissue forms, which can lead to a noticeable lump or curve in the penis. When the penis becomes erect, the scar tissue does not stretch, hindering the penis’ ability to expand, straighten, and stiffen into a normal erection.
Not everyone who injures their male reproductive organ develops Peyronie’s disease. Research is still being conducted to determine whether there may be genetic or environmental factors that contribute to the condition.
The Stages, Signs, and Symptoms of Peyronie’s Disease
Peyronie’s disease has two stages, which include:
- Acute Peyronie’s disease: This stage lasts about 12 months from the onset of the disease. During this time, the penile deformity and symptoms continue to develop, and pain can be present during both erection and flaccidity.
- Chronic Peyronie’s disease: This stage begins after symptoms stabilize, usually about one year after the onset of the disease. During this phase, the curve is stable, and patients typically do not experience pain during an erection.
The most obvious sign of Peyronie’s disease is a noticeable curve or bend to the penis. This curve may be upward, downward, or to one side. Another primary symptom of Peyronie’s disease is scar tissue, which is referred to as plaque. The plaque can be felt under the skin of the penis as flat lumps or a band of hard tissue.
Other symptoms of Peyronie’s disease include:
- A loss of length: A shortening of the penis is a known symptom of Peyronie’s disease.
- Pain in the penis: Men with Peyronie’s disease may experience pain in their penis with or without an erection. This can result in pain during sexual intercourse.
- Trouble getting or keeping an erection: The condition might cause problems getting or keeping an erection. This symptom, also known as erectile dysfunction, can also include softer erections, which can make it difficult for the person to engage in sexual activity.
- Other changes to the penis’ appearance: Some people with Peyronie’s disease may notice their erect penis looks narrow or indented. The loss of girth may even result in an hourglass-shaped male reproductive organ.
Peyronie’s disease symptoms may develop quickly or gradually become more prominent over time. In some cases, penile shortening and curving associated with Peyronie’s disease may worsen.
Complications of Peyronie’s Disease
The physical changes linked to Peyronie’s disease can have a tremendous impact on a person’s mental and emotional health. Common complications can include:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Body dysmorphic disorder and low self-esteem
- Fear of being intimate
- Strain placed on physical relationships
- Feelings of shame
- Difficulties conceiving children due to painful intercourse
Peyronie’s Disease Treatment in Staten Island
At Richmond University Medical Center, we understand how sensitive of a topic Peyronie’s disease can be. We are committed to creating a comfortable, safe space for patients in Staten Island to receive treatment.
We offer an all-inclusive approach to Peyronie’s disease and other conditions impacting sexual and overall health. Our offerings include advanced testing, education, and invasive and non-invasive treatment options. Contact us today for more information regarding our urology services or schedule an apportionment to meet with our team of specialists.
