Do Penises Shrink with Age?
The answer to this question can be delineated with several different attributes. It’s not possible to dramatically decrease the size, however a man’s erection can be in influenced by tumescence. Tumescence is the medical term that refers to the normal engorgement with blood of the erectile tissues, marking sexual excitation, and possible readiness for sexual activity. Therefore, the following factors will appear to produce a shrinkage.
Decreased Blood Flow:
1. • As men age, the arteries may harden (atherosclerosis), leading to reduced blood flow. Since erections are dependent on blood flow, this reduction can lead to both softer erections and a smaller appearance of the penis, especially when erect.
2. Loss of Elasticity and Tissue Degradation:
• Collagen in the penile tissue can degrade with age, reducing its elasticity. This affects both the size and firmness of the penis, leading to a more “retracted” appearance.
3. A gradual decline in testosterone levels (a condition known as andropause) affects muscle mass, including tissues in the penis, leading to shrinkage.
4. Weight Gain:
• As men age, weight gain, particularly in the lower abdomen, can cause fat to accumulate around the pubic area. This can obscure the base of the penis, making it appear shorter, even though the actual length may remain the same.
5. Prostate Surgery:
• Men who undergo prostate surgery for conditions such as prostate cancer may experience some penile shortening. This can be due to nerve and tissue damage that affects the structure of the penis.
6. Peyronie’s Disease:
• This condition involves the development of scar tissue inside the penis, which can cause curvature and a noticeable reduction in size over time.
The most important things to remember are maintaining good cardiovascular health, a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking can help mitigate these effects.
