What Every Man Needs To Know About Penis Aging

Your penis is a big reason you got into this whole parenting thing, so it’s in your best interest to know what happens to it as you age. You’re undoubtedly familiar with the tell-tale signs of aging. Your skin wrinkles, your hair goes gray, the pockets of your corduroys magically fill with hard candies. But what about your penis? What, exactly, happens when your family jewels get a bit dusty? Here’s what the typical man can anticipate from his penis as it travels through time.

Your Penis Will Bend With Age

Just as many old men develop weird new hobbies like bird feeding or watching NCIS, your penis will be keen to branch off in new directions. Over time, everyday activities like sex and running cause the development of scar tissue inside the penis. As it usually builds up asymmetrically, this can cause a noticeable bend in a previously straight schlong. This not-so-blind curve is natural. Excessive scar tissue, however, results in a condition known as Peyronie’s Disease. It affects about one in 20 men and can result in erectile dysfunction. Luckily (sort of), a direct injection of Botox often straightens the issue right up.

Your Penis Will Shrink With Age

Yes, your little general starts to lose rank as it gets older. But the actual change in size is quite small. In fact, it’s quite rare for a man to lose more than a centimeter of length over his lifetime. The only reason your object might appear smaller is because of, say, a large belly-hang that covers the base. So getting your sit-up on helps stave off the appearance of shrinkage.

You May Have Trouble With The Plumbing As You Age

Difficulty urinating or holding it in are two of the most common problems as your penis ages. These issues originate in the prostate, but urinary problems are best prevented with a holistic approach to the whole nether region. Kegels, zinc and selenium supplements, and ejaculating several times a week are all good ways to stay in control as you age.

Poor Heart Health Hurts Erections With Age

Nearly 15% of men have erectile dysfunction by age 70. Psychological and sexual issues cause it at any age, but in seniors, the culprit is usually low blood flow to the penis. Although it’s tempting to pop a Viagra or Cialis, the healthiest option is to address the underlying physiological causes. Exercising and eating a heart-healthy diet can keep you rocking stiffies well into your 90s.

It’s Harder To Get Hard As You Age

As testosterone levels drop with age, the nervous tissue inside the shaft that provides sensation starts to diminish. This can make it harder to climax. Although this is a bummer, the best defense against penile numbing is certainly not: Have an erection every day. As urologist Madeleine Castellanos explained to Huffington Post, “This is a case of use it or lose it. It’s just like if you don’t go to the gym, your muscles will get thinner and your arteries will close up. The same thing happens with a penis.”

Your Penis May Change Color With Age

Common circulatory problems related to aging, like atherosclerosis, can have a discoloring effect on the penis. Less blood makes its way to the higher areas of the shaft, causing it to turn much paler than the rest of your body. Although blood flow problems can be dangerous, there’s no reason to panic about the discoloration, especially since it’ll make your trunk easier to find in the dark.