Age-related Penis Changes
2015-03-30
Our bodies change as we age. Some men rage against this but it’s best to learn what they are and how to accommodate them. Certainly, life can be just as satisfying as long as we continue or begin to pursue a healthy lifestyle. Though we often understand what age-related changes in other parts of the body and other systems mean and how to compensate, we often ignore the sexual and reproductive aspects of aging. Here are some things to understand, consider and watch out for.First, skin color changes are common. Our skin often gets mottled. But the skin on the penis may also change in color. Another thing that may lighten its color is atherosclerosis. This is blood restriction, common in older people. As long as functionality remains the same or similar, there is nothing to worry about. Changes in skin color don’t come on all at once. Instead, these happen gradually over time, beginning after age 40. Make sure to have a regular annual physical and checkups with your doctor. But otherwise, this is nothing to worry about.
Something else that often worries men is the penis may shrink just a tad. A centimeter to one and a half centimeters could be lost by the time a man is in his 60’s or 70’s. This occurs due to lack of blood flow and a natural drop in testosterone. A lot of men gain weight in middle-age and this can make the penis appear smaller as well. Testosterone also makes the nerves of the penis sensitive to the touch. But a drop in testosterone may make it less sensitive. This means it could take longer to reach orgasm. Also, erections tend not to be as firm due to an age-related lack of blood flow. Some experts suggest having an erection every day, purposely if needed as a kind of exercise. Urinary issues may also arise such as frequent urination, not feeling as though the bladder is completely empty and so on. Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing such things. This may be just an enlarged prostate. But it may also be prostate cancer. Lastly, 5% of men over 40 and 15% of those over 70 experience erectile dysfunction. This can be due to a series of different health-related issues such as cardiovascular disease or diabetes. Be sure to address the issue with your physician.