Sexual Problems in Men

Although many men are surprised to hear it, curvature of the penis is not a rare problem. Some men are born with a penis that bends slightly when it becomes erect, but other men develop a bend that worsens over time. This can interfere with sexual activity.

Men who develop curvature of the penis in middle age which worsens over time have a condition known as Peyronie's disease. In addition to the curve, Peyronie's disease can cause impotence (erectile dysfunction) and pain.

While no treatments have been proven to prevent Peyronie's, many men with this disease will notice that it does not worsen, or may even improve, over time. Many men don't require treatment, but you should contact your doctor if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• a bend in your erection that prevents intercourse
• painful or uncomfortable lumps along the shaft of the penis
• difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.

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Online Medical Reviewer: Faculty of Harvard Medical School Date Last Reviewed: 5/30/2006 Date Last Modified: 5/23/2006 Source: from Harvard Health Decision Guides, Harvard Health Publications, Copyright © 2007 by President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Used with permission of StayWell.

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