$Unique_ID{BRK01228}
$Pretitle{Genitourinary System, Ill Defined Symptoms and Rare Diseases}
$Title{What Causes a Curved Erection?}
$Subject{penis curvature Peyronie's}
$Volume{J-15, N-15}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What Causes a Curved Erection?


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QUESTION:  I do not know where else to turn as this question is even too
embarrassing to ask my own physician.  I have noticed lately that when I have
an erection of my private, that is has begun to have a shape with a curving
twist to the side.  I never noticed this before, and am worried.  Do you know
what causes this, and if anything can be done about it?

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ANSWER:  There is no cause for embarrassment, as regrettably, there is a
condition known as Peyronie's Disease which can do exactly what you are
describing.  This problem is seen in adult men and science does not provide us
a full explanation of its cause.  Inside of the penis are two bundles of
tissue that, when filled with blood, produce an erection.  In Peyronie's
disease, these bundles develop scar tissue, that replaces the normal
sponge-like tissue normally found there.  This scarring leads to the curving
of the erect penis towards the side of the scar (which grows shorter as it
retracts) which can be quite painful.  This scarring can progress and actually
lead to an inability to have an erection.  Surgery can be performed in an
attempt to correct the condition, but more scarring can result from the
surgery itself which can aggravate the condition further.  X-ray therapy has
been used with some success as have injections of cortisone.  Here again, the
results are often not all one could wish for.  It is this kind of situation
that makes personal medical care so important, and you may gain a much better
understanding and some real help if you consult your personal family doctor.
I realize that it may take a bit of courage to overcome your reluctance to
discuss this, but it is the only way in which you will get the help I think
you need.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
