Just like every part of the body, the penis is unique. It comes in all shapes, sizes and colors, and can be the source of either a man's pride or his embarrassment. While many men everywhere feel some degree of angst over their penis shape and size, it is important to know what is normal and healthy, and what is not. With good nutrition, penis specific vitamins, regular washing, and good self-care, a penis should remain healthy and functional throughout a man's life.

Size

Over the years different studies have concluded different findings when investigating the size of the average male erect penis. According to The Kinsey Institute, the average male erect penis is anywhere from 5" to 6.5" in length and 4" to 5" in circumference. Neither foot size, hand size nor flaccid penis size is directly related to the eventual size of the erect penis. Throughout puberty the male organ continues to grow in size, until the age of 20. For men who wish to increase the size of their penis, there is no way of doing so except for surgical procedures. While cosmetic surgery on the shape and size of the penis has improved significantly over the years, at least one study published in European Urology in 2006 suggests that only 35% of men who undergo these surgeries are happy with the results.

Shape

The penis can bend and curve in any possible direction, and while the majority of penises will point slightly upward, many also can point downwards, forwards or to the side slightly. If a man's penis is slightly curved from day one it is perfectly normal and shouldn't affect the health or function of the organ. However, if your penis shape begins to change after the age of 15, it may be a sign of a underlying problem. Peyronie's Disease is a condition that can cause an increase in penis curvature, bumps on the shaft of the penis, an "hourglass" like look to the shape of the penis, and/or pain during erection. It occurs in nearly 20% of men and may be the result of physical trauma or injury to the penis, though researchers are still not clear on this. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor as soon as possible.

Skin Color

Some men wonder why the skin on their penis is a different color than the rest of their body. Though the color of the penis will directly relate to a man's race, it is normal for the penis foreskin to be darker in color than the rest of the body due to higher melanin content. Beneath the foreskin, the shaft and glans of the penis are usually much lighter. Following circumcision, it will appear as though the penis has two different colors, revealing where the foreskin was removed. With nearly half of all men in North America being circumcised, having a multi-colored penis is quite common. However any change in the color of the skin can be the first sign of cancerous leanings. Cancer growths on the penis can appear as red scaly patches, blue-brown spots, or a rash. Be sure to have any changes to the normal skin color of your penis checked out by a doctor immediately.

Advice and Care

No matter what a man's organ looks like, there are many options available to men to help them support the health of their penis. Studies how that nutrition, masturbation, frequent and careful washing, and penis health crèmes all play their role in self-care. Wash your penis every day with gentle soap, and avoid using deodorants or chemical products which may irritate the sensitive skin of the penis. Use penis specific formulas for male organ health (most health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) to moisturize your penis following washing. Natural crèmes containing shea butter, vitamins, minerals and amino acids will promote the integrity of the skin, protect nerve function, and improve the sensitivity of the penis.