Recent statistics show that up to nine percent of American men are dealing with Peyronie’s disease to some degree. Although the condition is typically characterized by curvature of the penis, shortening of the penis, and pain with an erection, the severity of the symptoms can vary. That means some men may wonder if it’s still possible or even advisable to have sex with their partners. Here’s what you need to know.
The symptoms of Peyronie’s disease can make sex challenging for some. Some potential complications include not being able to have or maintain an erection because of impaired blood flow, problems with penetrative sex because of the curvature of the penis, and the pain associated with erections in the active phase of the condition. Additionally, some men experience stress and anxiety based on the changes in their penises, which can make it even more unlikely to want to engage in sex.
Unfortunately, the effects of the disease don’t stop with the men who are living with it. In a 2020 study, researchers reviewed information from men who were dealing with the chronic phase of Peyronie’s disease and their sexual experiences with their female sexual partners. While men in this stage of the condition were unlikely to have pain with an erection, they were more likely to have erectile dysfunction and significant curvature of the penis.
The 44 male participants ranged in age from 49 to 63 years, and their median objective composite penile curvature was 75 degrees (interquartile range, 50–90 degrees). When speaking with the participants’ partners, researchers found that only 20 percent of them were bothered by the appearance of the men’s penises. However, over 80 percent reported having trouble with penetrative sex because of how significantly the penis curved, with almost 34 percent noting that trying to have sex was at least moderately painful. Additionally, almost 23 percent of the female sexual partners expressed concern about hurting their men.
Although the number of participants in this study was relatively small, it certainly gives some insight into how Peyronie’s disease can affect your sex life. It causes concern for the men dealing with the condition as well as their female sexual partners. The good news is that you don’t have to lose intimacy completely because of it. Maintaining your relationship starts with talking to your partner about what’s happening.
RELATED: 3 Health Conditions That Can Change Your Sex Life
One more interesting issue to note from the study mentioned above is that the men were far more bothered by the appearance of their erect penises than their partners. While close to 60 percent of the men had a problem with it, only 20 percent of the women did. Of course, this may further highlight how important it is to have open communication about what you’re dealing with.
According to the Sexual Medicine Society of North America (SMSNA), living with Peyronie’s disease can lead to feelings of anger, sadness, frustration, fear, anxiety, loss, and low self-esteem. Some men with the condition may isolate themselves while dealing with depression. They typically don’t think that anyone can understand what they’re going through if they’re not living with Peyronie’s disease as well. Even if they’re in a relationship, they may be too embarrassed to talk about it. The resulting separation can take a toll on the partner and strain the relationship. However, it doesn’t have to be that way.
Educating yourself about the condition is a great place to start when dealing with Peyronie’s disease. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms and discuss the way forward. While some people don’t need immediate treatment, others do. It’s important to know where you fall. This is also information you can share with your partner as you learn more.
Finding a support group can also help you to deal with your emotions surrounding the condition. There may also be support groups for your partner, so they can learn more about managing their feelings while being supportive.
Of course, you don’t have to wait until all this has happened to talk about your condition and feelings. Communication is an ongoing thing. It’s not something you should plan to get over with one conversation and never speak about again. You can even start by simply saying that you have Peyronie’s disease and you’re worried. Having your partner’s support throughout the process can make it easier to manage.
You should let your partner know how you feel about the symptoms and living with the condition in general. While having the conversation, you should also ask how they feel about everything. It’s important to acknowledge their feelings and how the condition may affect them as well. Since you’re both learning, it’s also a good idea to invite them to doctor’s visits. They may have questions for the doctor that can help them better understand what you’re dealing with.
Your doctor isn’t the only professional who can help you navigate conversations with your partner. If you’re having trouble verbalizing how you feel or connecting with your partner, consider seeing a therapist. They can provide insights and tools that make communication easier.
RELATED: Peyronie’s Disease: How to Start the Conversation with Your Doctor
Interestingly, maintaining intimacy with your partner starts with getting good at communication. Peyronie’s disease can cause stress and anxiety for both of you. That’s why therapists often suggest starting with non-sexual activities such as hugging, cuddling, holding hands, going on a date night, giving and getting massages, or sharing a warm bath. These activities help you stay close without the pressure to do more.
Sharing projects or hobbies is another way to build a good relationship without sexual expectations attached. For example, cultivating a garden, hiking, attending an art class, learning a new dance, or training for a 5K can foster shared joy in your accomplishments.
Although you’re working on your intimacy because of Peyronie’s disease and you still need to talk about it, that doesn’t mean the condition needs to dominate all your conversations. Setting aside some time each day to talk about your day and how you’re feeling in general can go a long way toward building intimacy.
Finally, it’s essential to acknowledge that not all sexual pleasure has to be penetrative. When you and your partner feel comfortable, you can explore other forms of touching that can lead to pleasure. You may even talk about using sexual aids where appropriate. As always, seeking out a therapist who deals specifically with sexual intimacy when living with Peyronie’s disease can help you to navigate complex conversations and feelings when necessary.
Peyronie’s disease can have a significant impact on your physical and mental health. Depending on your symptoms, you may have questions about being sexually active. While it’s critical to talk to your doctor, don’t leave your partner out of the conversation. After all, it’s their sex life too, and their support can go a long way while managing the condition.
By subscribing, you consent to receive emails from BlackDoctor.com. You may unsubscribe at any time. Privacy Policy & Terms of Service.
