Peyronie’s Disease: Symptoms, Stages, and What to Do Next?

Peyronie’s disease is a condition that leads to the formation of fibrous scar tissue that causes abnormal curvature during an erection.

Peyronie’s disease is not commonly discussed but it is not that rare and affects almost 1 in 10 men. This condition can lead to pain, erectile dysfunction, and emotional distress.

Knowing about the symptoms of Peyronie’s disease is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment. In this blog, we will highlight the Pyeronies’s disease symptoms that will equip you to recognise the signs and take appropriate action.

What is Peyronie’s Disease?

To begin with, let's first understand what this condition exactly is. Peyronie’s disease is a non-cancerous condition characterized by the formation of fibrous scar tissue also known as plaques in the penis.

This scar tissue can cause the penis to bend or curve when erect and also may cause discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse.

The exact cause of Peyronie’s disease is not fully understood, but it is often linked to repeated penile injury that could happen during sex or physical activity.

Although, it is believed that genetics and certain connective tissue disorders may also play a role in its development.

Early Signs and Symptoms of Peyronie’s Disease

Recognizing the early symptoms of Peyronie’s disease may help seek the required medical intervention. Early symptoms may vary from person to person, so let's list the common ones here -

Formation of Plaques or Lumps: One of the earliest signs of Peyronie’s disease is the development of hard lumps or plaques under the skin of the penis.

These plaques are made of scar tissue that forms in response to an injury or other unknown factors. They can usually be felt as a firm area on the penis shaft initially.

Curvature of the Penis: As Peyronie’s disease progresses, the scar tissue causes the penis to bend or curve and it mostly happens when the penis becomes erect.

The curvature can be upward, downward, or to the side and depends on the location of the scar tissue. Some men experience a greater extend of bend, while others may have a slight curvature.

The degree of curvature can also worsen over time and with that might lead to increased discomfort or difficulty with sexual activity.

Erection Problems: Men with Peyronie’s disease often face issues with achieving or maintaining an erection. This is due to the abnormal shape of the penis which also interferes with normal blood flow.

In some cases, the condition can lead to erectile dysfunction which makes it difficult for men to have satisfying sexual intercourse.

Pain During Erection: Pain or discomfort during an erection is a common symptom of Peyronie’s disease, and is mostly an early sign.

The pain is often due to the tension and stretching of the scar tissue during an erection. For some men, the pain may decrease over time but for others, it may persist or increase and impact their quality of life.

Shortening of the Penis: Another symptom that may occur with Peyronie’s disease is the shortening of the penis. The scar tissue can reduce the elasticity of the penile tissue which may lead to a noticeable decrease in length or girth.

This symptom can be even more distressing than the disease and may contribute to feelings of anxiety or depression.

Changes in Penis Shape or Size: In addition to curvature, Peyronie’s disease can cause other changes in the shape or size of the penis. Some men report narrowing or indentations on one or both sides of the shaft, that create an hourglass-like appearance.

Emotional and Psychological Impact: Beyond the physical symptoms, Peyronie’s disease can have an emotional and psychological impact.

Men may feel embarrassed, anxious, or depressed about their condition, which leads to a decrease in self-esteem.

It is essential to recognize these emotional symptoms and seek support from a sexologist or a counsellor.

Progression and Stages of Peyronie’s Disease

Peyronie’s disease mostly progresses through two stages explained below:

Acute Phase: This is an initial phase that usually lasts between 6 to 18 months. During this time, men may experience pain, inflammation, and the development of scar tissue. The curvature of the penis may begin to worsen as the scar tissue develops, and pain during erections may intensify.

Chronic Phase: After the acute phase, Peyronie’s disease enters the chronic phase, where the condition mostly stabilizes. The pain may subside in this phase, but the curvature and other symptoms, such as shortening or indentation of the penis persist.

At this stage, the disease may stop progressing, but the existing symptoms may persist.

When to See a Sexologist?

If you notice any signs or symptoms of Peyronie’s disease, it is essential to consult a sexologist.

Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage the symptoms, prevent the condition from worsening, and improve the quality of life.

Treatment options may include medications, injections, or, in severe cases, surgery and the best combination can be suggested by a sexologist as per your specific condition and requirements.

Bottom Line

Peyronie’s disease is a condition that can have a huge impact on a man’s physical and emotional well-being. Understanding the symptoms and stages of the disease is crucial for early detection and effective management.

If you are experiencing symptoms of Peyronie’s disease, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. With the right approach and support, it is possible to manage this condition and maintain a fulfilling sexual and emotional life.