Peyronie's Disease

What Is Peyronie's Disease?

Peyronie's disease involves the formation of scar tissue (plaques) under the skin of the penis, causing it to bend or curve during erections. This curvature can make sexual intercourse difficult or painful and may also lead to erectile dysfunction. The exact cause isn't fully understood, but it's often linked to trauma or repeated injury to the penis.

According to the Mayo Clinic, minor injury to the penis during sex or athletic activity, combined with genetic susceptibility or healing abnormalities, can lead to plaque formation.

Over time, these plaques can harden and reduce the elasticity of the penis, affecting both its function and appearance.

Prevalence and Risk Factors

Globally, Peyronie's disease is estimated to affect about 6–10% of men, although some studies suggest it could be underreported due to embarrassment or lack of awareness. Specific data for the Philippines is limited, but local urologists observe that cases are steadily rising alongside greater awareness and better diagnostic practices.

Key risk factors include:

• Age: Most common in men between 40 and 70 years old, but younger men can also be affected
  

• Penile trauma: Injury during sex, vigorous activity, or accidents
  

• Genetic predisposition: A family history of Peyronie's disease or related conditions like Dupuytren's contracture
  

• Health conditions: Diabetes, hypertension, erectile dysfunction, and smoking all increase the risk
  

A review in the National Institutes of Health notes that men with diabetes are particularly vulnerable, as high blood sugar levels impair tissue healing and promote scar formation.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Symptoms of Peyronie's disease can develop gradually over months or appear suddenly. Early detection can make treatment easier and prevent worsening deformities.

Common signs include:

• Noticeable curve or bend: Especially during erection, often upward, downward, or to one side
  

• Pain during erections: Discomfort even without significant curvature
  

• Hard plaques or lumps: Palpable under the skin of the shaft
  

• Penile shortening or narrowing: A "waist-like" constriction
  

• Erectile dysfunction: Difficulty getting or maintaining an erection due to poor blood flow or anxiety
  

• Emotional distress: Anxiety, depression, embarrassment, and strained relationships
  

Some men experience curvature without pain, while others report pain even without a visible bend. Recognizing the full spectrum of symptoms is critical for early management.

Diagnosis and Testing

A proper diagnosis typically involves:

• Physical examination: Palpating the penis to locate plaques and assess curvature
  

• Ultrasound: Imaging to evaluate the extent of scar tissue and blood flow abnormalities
  

• Photographs: Taken during erection (induced naturally or medically) to document curvature for treatment planning
  

According to the Cleveland Clinic, most diagnoses are clinical but imaging is useful for surgical planning.

In the Philippines, men can seek evaluations at specialized urology centers or major hospitals offering men's health services.

Stages of Peyronie's Disease

Understanding the two distinct phases of Peyronie's disease helps guide treatment choices:

• Acute phase: Lasts 6–18 months, characterized by pain and progressive curvature as the scar tissue forms
  

• Chronic phase: When the plaque stabilizes, pain often subsides, but the curvature and deformity remain
  

Treatments vary depending on which phase a man is in, with non-surgical options generally preferred during the acute stage.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on how severe the curvature is and how much it impacts sexual function or quality of life.

Non-surgical options:

• Oral medications: Some doctors prescribe pentoxifylline to reduce scar tissue formation, though results are mixed
  

• Intralesional injections: Collagenase clostridium histolyticum (Xiaflex) is the only FDA-approved treatment targeting plaques directly
  

• Penile traction therapy (PTT): Regular use of traction devices can gently remodel the tissue and reduce curvature by 20–30%
  

• Shockwave therapy: Emerging research explores low-intensity shockwaves to reduce pain and soften plaques, but evidence is still limited
  

Surgical options:

• Nesbit procedure: Shortens the unaffected side to straighten the penis
  

• Plaque incision with grafting: Relieves tension on the scarred side
  

• Penile prosthesis implantation: For men with severe ED and curvature
  

The American Urological Association recommends reserving surgery for men who have stable disease for at least 6 months and whose symptoms severely impact function.

Emotional and Psychological Impact

Peyronie's disease often carries a heavy emotional toll. Men may feel embarrassment, frustration, anger, or sadness about changes in sexual performance or self-image.

• Counseling: Psychological therapy can help address body image issues and relationship strain
  

• Partner support: Open conversations and shared education can strengthen intimacy
  

• Support groups: Online or in-person groups provide a sense of community and shared experience
  

A holistic approach addressing both physical and emotional aspects leads to better outcomes.

For emotional support resources in the Philippines, andyou.ph offers accessible guidance for mental health and wellness.

Lifestyle and Self-Care Tips

Simple lifestyle adjustments may help reduce inflammation and support better outcomes:

• Quit smoking: Smoking worsens blood flow and impairs healing
  

• Manage chronic diseases: Control blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol
  

• Exercise regularly: Boosts circulation and overall health
  

• Healthy diet: Focus on anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and fish
  

• Limit alcohol intake: Excessive drinking impairs sexual function and vascular health
  

These strategies also promote general health and sexual function, supporting recovery alongside medical treatments.

Moving Toward Healing and Confidence

Peyronie's disease is a challenging but manageable condition. With modern treatments, greater public awareness, and emotional support, Filipino men living with Peyronie's can reclaim their confidence, intimacy, and quality of life.

If you notice symptoms of curvature, pain, or changes in your erections, don't wait. Early consultation with a healthcare provider opens the door to more options and better outcomes.

Empower yourself with knowledge, seek professional guidance, and take proactive steps toward healing.