The Connection: Peyronies Disease & Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is a condition in which a man has difficulty achieving and/or maintaining an erection firm enough for satisfying sexual intercourse. ED affects over 30 million men in the US and can wreak havoc with relationships, self-esteem and overall confidence both inside and outside the bedroom.
ED has several root causes, one of which may be Peyronies Disease (PD). PD results in an abnormal bend or curve in the penis that can make an erection painful or cause discomfort, especially during intercourse.
The cause of Peyronies Disease is often a result of repeated minor injury to the erect penis during sexual activity causing inflammation within the penile tissue. Other research indicates PD occurs due to an underlying autoimmune disorder along with the injury.
Factors such as sex, sports, and auto accidents are among the most common “injuries” to the penis. The inflammation caused by the injury affects the penile tissues, which in turn develop into scar tissue which leads to possible pain, curvature and erectile difficulties.
Nonetheless, whether it is one specific injury during sexual activity or repeated minor injuries, the inflamed tissue results in the formation of plaque (scar tissue) that causes the penis to bend or curve.
Some factors that may increase the chance that you will develop Peyronies Disease include:
- Aging process
- Diabetes
- Family history of Peyronies Disease
- Having an autoimmune disease or connective tissue disorders
- Engaging in vigorous sexual play that may injure tissues in penis