This week a reader is worried that he’s damaged his penis.
Dear Jose
I think I’ve broken my penis. I heard a snap when I was having sex. It’s incredibly painful and it’s looking kinda black and blue. Will it heal by itself?
JM
Dear JM
I would recommend that you present at A&E or see your GP as soon as possible. It may heal by itself but it may not heal correctly which may have implications for long term functioning.
The penis is not a bone despite the term boner. You get an erection by blood flowing through the penis inside two cylinder-shaped chambers which are called the corpora cavernosa. Once those are filled the penis becomes hard.
Although your penis is pretty robust it is possible to break it or snap the fibrous coverings of the corpora cavernosa called tunica albuginea. As you can see from the above picture the penis may become black and blue.
Penile fractures can happen during sex, with the majority of accidents happening in the cowboy position (the bottom or person who is being penetrated is on top). So make sure you take care during that position.
It can also happen during aggressive wanking. See our advice on wanking too much<
by Jose Perez / Jake Hook
The advice listed above is not intended to replace or take the place of that of your own doctor, GP or medical professional who knows your full medical history. If in any doubt make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible.
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