The penis is a delicate and highly specialized tool, and as such, it is prone to numerous problems, ranging from loss of function to contagious diseases to various skin-related issues. For the average man, these problems can be embarrassing and uncomfortable, and when his bedroom performance is affected, they can even impact his quality of life. On the other hand, most men would prefer any of these routine problems to the unusual penile disorders that are described here. Read on to find out more about these unusual issues, as well as the corrective steps (if any) that can be taken to solve them. And for those fortunate enough not to be suffering from them, some essential penis health care tips are also provided.

1) "Ram’s horn" penis. Most men have seen a ram’s horn, at least in pictures -large, misshapen, twisted and bent. That is exactly how a ram’s horn penis can be described. This monstrous disorder is fortunately rare, and it may be caused by blockages in the lymph nodes, which cause the manhood to swell and bend painfully. Chlamydia is one known cause of ram’s horn penis. Treatment of the underlying illness or disorder is required.

2) Hypospadias. This condition is diagnosed when a male’s urethral opening is located on the underside of the penis, rather than at the tip. If left untreated, hypospadias can cause difficulties with toilet training in small children, and in adults, erectile issues may develop. Treating the problem usually involves surgical repositioning of the urethra, and if necessary, straightening of the shaft of the penis. In most cases, near-normal appearance and function can be achieved.

3) Diphallus. This condition is extremely rare and occurs when a male is born with two penises. While this might actually sound more like a benefit than a disorder, the truth is that in most cases, only one of the tools is fully functional, and in some instances, neither works correctly. Most men with this problem would prefer not to have the double penis, and some have even opted to have the less-functional organ surgically removed.

4) Peyronie’s disease. This disorder is rather more common than the others described here, but it can be almost as devastating in some cases. Peyronie’s disease is diagnosed when a man develops scarring in the connective tissue surrounding the erectile chambers, or corpora cavernosa, of the penis. This scarring causes bending or curving of the penile shaft during erections; the condition can be very painful, and in some cases, it can be so severe as to prevent intercourse from taking place. Peyronie’s disease may be corrected by surgically removing the scarred tissue and straightening the shaft of the penis; the procedure carries some risk of loss of function.

5) Priapism. Like diphallus, priapism is a disorder that sounds great, but really isn’t. It occurs when a man develops an erection that will not subside; however, the erection is not related to sexual stimulation, and it can be very painful, not to mention damaging. It usually occurs as a result of trauma to the genital area, although certain medications and recreational substances may also be a factor. Emergency surgery is required to drain the blood that has become trapped in the penis; failing to treat the problem on time can result in tissue death and may even require amputation of the penis.

Penis health tips for the average guy

Fortunately, most men will never encounter problems like these, but that doesn’t mean that they can slack off when it comes to caring for the equipment. An appropriate penile care routine should include:

- Always using a condom;

- Getting checked for sexually transmitted infections every 6 months to a year;

- Keeping it clean;

- Wearing a cup during sports activities;

- Scheduling an annual physical exam.

Aside from these precautionary measures, men should consider adding a penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) to their personal care arsenal. Keeping the skin nourished and hydrated with a male-specific formula may not only keep the equipment looking and feeling great, but also help prevent injuries and disease that can affect penile function, both in the short- and long-term.