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Expert Guide to Penile Shrinkage
The untimely increase and decrease in the size of the penis in many elderly men most often indicate the signs of shrinkage of the penis or penile size shrinkage. It can be a psychological distress call or a sign of underlying health issues. Dr. Anup Dhir, the best sexologist in Delhi, has researched this aspect at length to unravel its causes, preventive measures, and possible treatments.
What is Penile Shrinkage?
It refers to a visible decline in the length and girth of the organ (penis), which might occur gradually over time. Ageing is, conventionally, one of the major reasons for this, yet it can also stem from lifestyle or medical factors, including hormonal imbalances.
Causes of Penile Shrinkage
Dr. Anup Dhir, the best sexologist in Delhi mentions some of the following factors causing penile shrinkage:
1. Ageing
With age, the declining testosterone level in males leads to diminished tissue elasticity and muscle mass, including penile tissues. This hormonal factor generally makes the penis smaller.
2. Decreased Blood Supply
Atherosclerosis can cause a decrease in blood flow due to narrowed blood vessels in the penis, contributing to a slow erosion of tissue. Hypertension and cardiovascular diseases are highly responsible for these conditions.
3. Peyronie's Disease
A disease in which fibrous scar tissue develops inside the penis, including possible curvature, pain, and reduction in penile length.
4. Obesity
An amount of fat closely related to the lower abdomen creates the condition of the penis being perceived as smaller since its end parts are buried deeply under it. Obesity also lowers testosterone secretion as a hormone effect.
5. Hormonal Imbalance
Low testosterone or an imbalance between estrogens and testosterones may lead to shrinkage of the penis. For instance, hypogonadism can speed up the development of this condition.
6. Prostate Surgery
Impacts from some degree of shortening of the penis are common due to damage of nerves and reduced blood flow in men who have undergone radical prostatectomy (removal of their prostate due to cancer).
7. Smoking and Alcohol Consumption
Inadequate supply of oxygen to the penile tissues due to poor circulation resulting from smoking, which damages blood vessels. Similar effects result from excessive consumption of alcohol, high levels that cause reduced testosterone production and can degenerate the tissues.
8. Medicines
Some medications, like those used for treating enlarged prostate (BPH) and depression (SSRIs), are known to have side effects that can include a penile shrinkage effect.
Prevention and Treatment
Penile shrinkage does not only apply to the causes, Dr. Anup Dhir, the best sexologist in Delhi, mentions that while some degree of shrinkage has been attributed to aging itself. However, some lifestyle changes and treatments may help induce the difference.
1. Lifestyle Changes
Regular aerobic exercises and pelvic floor exercises are those that improve the circulation of blood to maintain the size of the penis. A very sound diet comprised mainly of antioxidants and other vitamins and minerals supports hormonal balance along with vascular health. Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption would drastically increase blood flow.
2. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
In cases of clinically low testosterone levels, HRT can restore hormonal balance and prevent further shrinkage in individuals.
3. Medical Treatment
PDE5 inhibitors like Viagra or Cialis can improve blood flow to the penis, helping to maintain its size.
- Penile Traction Devices: These are used to stretch penile tissue and have shown positive results in men with Peyronie's disease or post-prostatectomy shrinkage.
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) Therapy: A regenerative treatment possibly aiding in tissue growth and improving penile health.
4. Psychological Counselling
Since penile shrinkage may induce anxiety and self-esteem issues, psychological counselling or therapy may enable men to cope with that change and maintain a positive attitude toward their sexual health.
Shrinkage of the penis is a common concern among men but not yet an irreversible condition. Dr. Anup Dhir, the best sexologist in Delhi, recommends early intervention, lifestyle changes, and medical treatments to manage this condition. By understanding the underlying causes and addressing this proactively, men may be able to maintain penile health along with their overall well-being. To gather more information about penile shrinkage, book an appointment with Dr. Anup Dhir today.
