For most men, the penis is of utmost importance - it definitely gets a lot of attention, and when things aren’t working right, it is a cause for a great deal of concern. But in spite of this, few guys know how the penis really works or how to take care of it properly, and they are not aware of the most common penis problems that can affect its appearance, function and sensitivity.

Men who want to know more about the penis and how to treat it right should take the time to learn about the penis facts discussed here. In addition, caring for the penis through proper hygiene and nourishing the penile skin with the right combination of penis vitamins and minerals can help to keep the penis healthy, supple and lively.

Penis anatomy

The penis is actually a y-shaped appendage - the outer shaft, the part that can be seen, is the "stem" of the Y, while the two points of the Y are attached to the pubic bone (for better steering when erect). Inside the penis are three large chambers. Two of these, the corpora cavernosa, are essentially spongy chambers that fill up with blood when the penis is engorged during arousal; the third chamber is the urethra, which leads from the bladder to the exit point to allow for urination.

Under the penile skin, a fine mesh of nerve endings can be found. These stem from the dorsal nerve that runs along the top of the penis. All of this neural tissue is responsible for sending sensory information to the brain, signaling a response to tactile stimulation.


What can go wrong with the penis?

The penis is really more complicated than most people think, so it is no surprise that many things can go wrong. Here are just some of the common penis problems that men experience from time to time:

• Skin infections - bacterial and fungal infections are common, since these organisms tend to flourish in warm, moist areas. Jock itch, yeast infection, and balanitis can cause redness, itching, swelling and overall discomfort, as well as unpleasant odors and an alarming appearance. Proper hygiene and attention to penis health are necessary for preventing penis infections.

• Dry skin - Masturbation without lubricants, exposure to the bodily fluids of a partner, spermicides, and a host of other substances can dry the delicate penis skin. Without care, the penis can develop a chapped, cracked appearance that may be sore to the touch. Eventually, a callused-like layer of skin may form, which can have a negative effect on penis sensitivity.

• Fractures - Yes, it can happen. An acrobatic move during penetration or an awkward accident of one kind or another actually can cause a penis fracture, which should be considered a medical emergency. If left untreated, a fractured penis may develop a permanent deformity which can affect sexual function

• STDs - While it is more pleasant to think that these only happen to other people, unprotected sex always creates the risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease. The best way to avoid this is to be selective about one’s choice of partners, to condom up every time, and to support the body’s disease-fighting properties with essential vitamins and other nutrients targeting penis health.

Caring for the penis

Prevention is the best medicine, and caring for the penis properly is the first step in maintaining penis health. Washing every day with a gentle cleanser, moisturizing, and nourishing the penis skin with a specialized penis health formula (most health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) that contains vitamins and minerals designed to support penis health can help to maintain the overall tone, texture and appearance of the member, promote sensitivity and responsiveness to sexual stimulation, and fight off diseases that can affect long-term penis health.