The idea of a broken penis has provided fodder for more than one television episode, but the idea that it can really happen may seem ridiculous. How is it possible that the penis can break when it does not contain any inflexible material such as bone? Unfortunately, this type of injury is far more common than most people realize. In order to avoid injuries to the shaft of the penis that may lead to long-term disfigurement and loss of function, men should understand how and why this can occur. In addition to taking measures to prevent penis injury through the regular use of penis vitamins and minerals may be beneficial to overall penis health.

Broken penis syndrome - what is it, and how does it happen?

For those unfamiliar with penis anatomy, the penis contains a spongy chamber known as the corpora cavernosa. This chamber fills with blood during an erection and gives the penis its rigidity. The corpora cavernosa is surrounded by a membrane known as the tunica albuginea. Broken penis syndrome, or penile fracture, occurs when this membrane is torn as the result of severe bending, or trauma, usually during intercourse but also during aggressive masturbation. Such penile injuries are more common during intercourse when the female partner is on top, but a fracture can also take place due to vigorous thrusting of the male.

Signs of a penile fracture

Penile fracture is usually accompanied by a loud popping or cracking sound, as well as the sudden onset of severe pain. Loss of erection, bruising and swelling of the member may also occur.

Treating a penile fracture

Penile fracture is considered a medical emergency, and men who experience the followig symptoms or any severe pain of the penis should seek immediate treatment.

The usual approach to treating broken penis syndrome is surgery. At least one incision is made in the shaft, and the tear to the tunica albiginea is repaired with sutures. Although most men are able to return home immediately after surgery, it can take up to a month for the injury to heal fully and for normal sexual function to be restored.

Risks of leaving a penile fracture untreated

Tearing of the tunica albuginea that is left untreated may result in scarring of the tissue underlying the skin of the penis. This can lead to erectile dysfunction, as well as bending of penis during erections - up to as much as a 45 degree angle. This condition, which is known as Peyronie’s Disease, can cause severe discomfort during sex or make penetration impossible - corrective surgery is generally required to treat the condition once it has progressed to this point.

Who is at risk for penile injury?

While penile fractures are more commonly seen in younger men, who tend to engage in more assertive acts of intercourse and who generally have more rigid erections, even men in their fifties and beyond may experience injuries to the penis.

Supporting overall penis health and preventing injury during intercourse

While there is no way to guarantee that a penile fracture will not occur (short of total abstinence), men can take care to avoid traumatic penile injuries from occurring. Sexual positions where the partner is on top, or where there is extreme bending or side to side motion, should be approached with caution, and keeping the penis skin well-lubricated is always advised.

In addition, maintaining the skin’s natural moisture balance and boosting penile healing properties through the use of a specialized penis health formula (most health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) may help to reduce the chances of sustaining a serious penile injury. The added benefits of using a penis cream on a regular basis may include softer, more supple and responsive penis skin, as well as a more attractive, youthful appearance.