As we get older, it’s inevitable that our bodies change. Our hair might turn gray, our skin may become wrinkled, and we might put on a little weight. These are changes we can usually expect.
Some men might be surprised to learn that their penis and testicles change with age, too. Why does this happen? And should men be concerned? We’ll look at these questions today.
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Men might be surprised to learn that their penis and testicles change with age. (Click to tweet)
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Testosterone Levels Gradually Fall
Testosterone is an important hormone for men’s health, as it gives them their masculine traits and contributes to sex drive.
As men get older, their testosterone levels naturally decline. Some experts call this process “andropause” or “male menopause” to compare it to female menopause, when estrogen levels drop. However, it is not the same. Once men are in their 40s, their testosterone levels decrease about 1% each year. For women, the hormonal drop is much more dramatic.
Still, it helps to understand this decline in testosterone and the role it plays in the aging man.
Changes in Penis Appearance
Men might notice that their penis starts to look different:
- It might change color. Good blood flow to the penis is important for genital health. But with age, atherosclerosis – hardening of the arteries – becomes more common. When this happens, the blood supply decreases and the tip of the penis becomes lighter in color.
- It might look smaller. Some older men worry that their penis is shrinking, but this can be an optical illusion. If a man has gained abdominal weight, the extra fat can hide part of the shaft, making the penis look shorter than it actually is.
- It might actually become smaller. Sometimes, the penis does actually shorten, due to reduced blood flow and testosterone levels. A buildup of scar tissue can also contribute to the problem. This “shrinkage” could be as much as an inch over time. Keep in mind that the change is gradual and that for many partners, penis size is not important.
- It might start to curve. Peyronie’s disease, a condition marked by a distinct bend in the penis, becomes more likely with age. In some cases, the curve becomes so great that intercourse is impossible. Men in this situation should see their urologist for treatment.
- Testicles may become smaller. Over time, the size of a man’s testicles may decrease by as much as a third.
- Pubic hair may diminish. As testosterone levels decrease, so might the amount of a man’s pubic hair.
Functional Changes in the Penis
Aging can affect the way a man’s penis performs, too:
- Men may need more time. With their testosterone levels falling, older men often need more stimulation to become sexually aroused, get an erection, and reach orgasm. They may also need more time before they can have sex again. It can be frustrating, but it’s normal. Keep in mind that female partners may need more time, too.
- Erectile dysfunction (ED) may develop. ED – being unable to get or keep an erection firm enough for sex – is quite common in aging men, especially if they have developed atherosclerosis in penile blood vessels. Fortunately, there are a variety of treatments for ED, including pills and vacuum devices. If you are having trouble with erections, be sure to see your doctor. ED can be a sign of other medical conditions, like heart disease or diabetes, so it’s important to have it checked out.
- Urinary problems may occur. Older men are likely to have an enlarged prostate, also called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). When this occurs, the prostate gland grows inward. The urethra – the tube that carries semen and urine out of the body – runs right through this gland. When prostate tissue enlarges, it can squeeze the urethra, making it more difficult for men to urinate. Men with urinary problems are encouraged to see their doctors as well.
What Can Men Do?
While none of us can turn back the clock, there are a number of ways men can keep the penis healthy as they get older.
- See a doctor when you have concerns. It might be awkward to discuss your private parts and even more awkward to acknowledge that you’re having a problem. But talking to your doctor is the first step toward better penis health, better sexual health, and better overall health.
- Develop healthy habits. Ask your doctor about dietary changes and fitness plans that are right for you. You might consider having fruit for dessert instead of cake, going to the gym, or taking a walk around the block after dinner. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can reduce your risk of heart disease and diabetes, which can contribute to erection problems. And losing some weight might bring back some of that penis length you “lost.”
- Communicate with your partner. If you’re worried about changes in your penis, be open with your partner. Most likely, he or she will be glad you brought it up, supportive in your search for answers, and understanding if your performance isn’t what it used to be. Your partner may also have ideas for adjustments the two of you can make in the bedroom.
By accepting the course of aging and maintaining healthy habits, you and your partner can still enjoy an active sex life for many more years.
Resources
Grandparents.com
Levine, Beth
“6 Penis Problems That Happen With Age”
http://www.grandparents.com/health-and-wellbeing/health/penis-problems
Sexual Medicine Society of North America
“Andropause, or ‘low testosterone’”
https://www.sexhealthmatters.org/did-you-know/andropause-or-low-testosterone
“Sex for Women After 50”
(October 29, 2014)
https://www.sexhealthmatters.org/sex-health-blog/sex-for-women-after-50/single
WebMD
Freeman, David
“Life Cycle of a Penis”
(Reviewed: December 5, 2011)
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