According to a study conducted by Claire Yang and William Bradley of the University of Washington, Seattle, the dorsal nerve, which runs along the top of the penis, is the most important nerve in terms of the sexual response. Furthermore, the glans, or head of the penis, is overall the most sensitive, as it is filled with a large number of nerve endings.

Because this neural tissue is so important to the experience of sexual pleasure, maintaining nerve health is essential. Handling the penis properly and supporting nerve health with the right combination of penis vitamins and minerals may help to protect the penile nerves from desensitizing damage or to recover after damage to the neural tissue. In addition, understanding what causes nerve damage is essential to avoiding loss of penis sensitivity.

Causes of penile nerve damage

Penile nerve sensitivity is a complex issue, and a number of factors can affect it. While lack of responsiveness to sexual stimulus can be related to chronic health issues, such as diabetes, spinal injury, and cardiovascular problems, peripheral nerve damage that occurs as the result of rough handling is much more common.

Aggressive masturbation, particularly without the benefit of lubricants, is a leading cause of penile sensitivity loss. Use of stretching devices or performing so-called stretching or lengthening exercises has also been frequently blamed for damage to the penile dorsal nerve. Although there are numerous products such as O-rings and extenders, vacuum pumps, and specialized penile stretching techniques that are marketed to men looking to increase their size, it is important to point out that there is no scientific evidence that these make more than a marginal (and temporary) difference. On the other hand, there is a very real risk of nerve damage, not to mention structural damage to the penis that can cause loss of sensation and overall loss of penile function.

Symptoms of nerve damage to the penis

Men experiencing sensitivity loss due to nerve damage may experience a number of symptoms:
• Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection;
• Lack of firmness during erections;
• Inability to feel light touch (from fingers, soft cloth, feathers, etc.) on the shaft or glans;
• Inability to sense warm or cold on the shaft or glans;
• Difficulty achieving orgasm, or inability to achieve orgasm.

Treating reduced penis sensitivity

Following the suggestions given here may help to restore normal penile sensitivity; in addition, these tips may help to prevent the damage that can lead to reduced penis sensation.

First, men who note a loss of responsiveness should give the penis time to recover. Taking a few days (or even weeks) off from masturbating or sex can allow the body’s natural healing properties time to work, restoring damaged nerve cells. For men who cannot abstain from masturbation, only a light touch should be used.

Second, lubrication should be used for both masturbation and partner activity in order to prevent excessive friction.

Third, sexual therapists recommend experimenting with different types of sensation. Using light touch or changing techniques while masturbating, or trying different positions with a partner, can help to "retrain" the nerves of the penis to respond to alternative stimulation.

Most importantly, it is necessary to support healthy penile tissue with proper nutrients. Neuroprotective amino acids such as acetyl-L-carnitine, as well as healing vitamins such as A, C and B5, are recommended for prevention of nerve damage and restoration of damaged neural tissue. Treating the penis skin with a specialized penis health formula (most health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) that contains these nutrients, as well as natural moisturizers for keeping the skin well-hydrated, may support overall penis sensitivity and protect against reduced penile sensation.