As cold weather approaches the East Coast of the United States, doctors have warned men that they may be about to experience difficulties in the bedroom.
A weather-related condition known as “winter penis” is caused by a sharp drop in temperature, which causes the male genitals to shrink as a result of restricted blood flow to the area.
Not only does this lead to a size reduction of up to 50 percent, but reduced blood flow to the area can make it more difficult for a man to maintain an erection.
Dr. Saransh Jain, a world-renowned sexologist based in India, explained that the problem occurs because “when it’s cold, the body limits blood flow to the extremities like the fingers and toes and, yes, the penis to retain heat in the vital organs. .
he said This reaction is known as vasoconstriction and causes blood vessels to constrict, limiting blood flow to the penis.
As the “winter penis” takes hold, Dr. Jain reveals that “the shaft of the penis and testicles move closer to the body to maintain the optimal temperature for sperm production” and this is an evolutionary mechanism to protect sperm and the testicles.
While most men who experience “winter penis” will find that this only occurs briefly and occasionally, it can be much worse for those with underlying erectile dysfunction (ED).
According to the NIH, about 30 million men in the United States are believed to suffer from erectile dysfunction.
‘Winter penis’, this is the name of the phenomenon whereby male genitals shrink in the coldest seasons
Experts say mThose who already suffer from erectile dysfunction could find their condition more difficult to manage when the weather begins to deteriorate.
The winter penis also has a simple solution: once it warms up, the size of the organ will return to normal, as the body stops adapting to better survive the cold.
“The effects are only temporary and do not cause any long-term changes,” says Dr. Jain about this disease.
To help combat “winter penis,” the doctor suggests wearing insulated underwear and pants, limiting time in cold temperatures whenever possible, and staying hydrated since “dehydration exacerbates the effects of vasoconstriction.”
However, experts warn that just because the winter penis exists, men should not rule out constant changes in the size and function of their penis.
They advise any man who experiences a long-term change in the shape of his genitals, including his testicles, or in the blood flow to his member, to see his healthcare provider as a precaution.
Dr. Jain says on the matter: ‘Don’t be embarrassed to talk to your doctor about your penis health and any changes you’ve noticed.
“Early diagnosis and treatment of underlying conditions are key to preventing permanent damage and supporting long-term penile and sexual health.”
Additionally, any man suffering from erectile dysfunction should seek help, as a variety of treatments and medications can help address the problem.
This is important because not only is sexual function a key aspect of a person’s well-being, but sometimes erectile dysfunction can also be an indicator of serious health problems, such as cardiovascular disease.
Penis in winter should not be confused with frostbite, a serious medical condition in which the tissue is exposed to extremely cold temperatures.
With freezing The affected area begins to feel cold and painful as blood is drawn away from the area to protect the body’s internal temperature.
If cold exposure continues, the tingling sensation may occur before the area eventually becomes numb as the tissue freezes, damaging it.
In extreme cases, tissue may be lost and amputation may be required.
Frostbite of the penis is rare compared to other parts of the body, such as the ears or fingers, as the genitals are more likely to become wrapped in clothing if someone is trapped outdoors.
The Mayo Clinic says those who suffer frostbite – most commonly winter climbers, cross-country skiers and homeless people – should be urgently moved to a warm environment and the injured area protected from further damage.
Dr. Jain says other factors that can make male genitals appear smaller temporarily include aging, weight gain, and stress and anxiety.
On his last point, he explains: ‘Feeling stressed or anxious causes changes in the body that can affect penis size.
‘High levels of stress increase cortisol, the stress hormone, which, in turn, decreases testosterone, the sex hormone responsible for libido and erections.
“Less testosterone means less blood flow to the penis, resulting in a smaller size.”