A slightly curved erection can be normal. But when the curvature is significant, painful, or affects your ability to have sex, it may be more than just anatomy—it could be a condition known as Peyronie’s Disease.

Often misunderstood and rarely discussed, Peyronie’s Disease can have a serious impact on a man’s sexual function and emotional well-being. In this blog, Dr. Rahul Yadav, Urologist, breaks down what Peyronie’s Disease is, why it happens, and what treatment options are available.

What Is Peyronie’s Disease?

Peyronie’s Disease is a condition in which fibrous scar tissue (plaque) forms inside the penis, causing it to bend or curve during an erection. This curvature can be mild or severe and may cause pain or make sexual intercourse difficult or even impossible.

Though it might sound rare, it affects up to 10% of men, especially those over the age of 40. Unfortunately, many men hesitate to seek help due to embarrassment or lack of awareness.

What Causes Peyronie’s Disease?

The exact cause is not always clear, but some common factors include:

• Trauma or Injury to the Penis: Even a minor, unnoticed injury during sex or physical activity can trigger scar tissue formation.
• Repeated Microtrauma: Ongoing minor injuries from vigorous sexual activity can cause chronic inflammation.
• Genetic Predisposition: Men with a family history of Peyronie’s or connective tissue disorders may be more likely to develop it.
• Autoimmune Conditions: The body may mistakenly attack its own tissues, leading to scarring.

Other risk factors include diabetes, smoking, high blood pressure, and prostate surgery.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Peyronie’s Disease develops in two stages:

1. Acute Phase (Lasts up to 12 months):

• Painful erections
• Formation of a hard lump or plaque
• Increasing curvature or deformity of the penis
• Erectile dysfunction (ED)

2. Chronic Phase:

• Pain usually subsides
• Curvature stabilizes
• Erectile difficulties may persist
• Penile shortening or narrowing

If you notice any of these changes, especially a new bend or pain during erections, consult a urologist early.

How Is Peyronie’s Disease Diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves:

• Medical History & Symptom Review
• Physical Examination: Feeling the plaque or scar tissue
• Erection Imaging: Ultrasound may be used to assess the scar tissue and blood flow
• Photographs at Home: Sometimes, patients are asked to provide images of the erect penis to assess the curve.

Accurate diagnosis helps determine the stage and severity—crucial for choosing the best treatment.

Treatment Options for Peyronie’s Disease

Treatment depends on how severe the condition is, how long it has been present, and whether it’s affecting sexual function.

1. Observation (Mild Cases)- If the curvature is slight and not causing pain or dysfunction, monitoring the condition may be all that’s needed.

2. Oral Medications- While often limited in effectiveness, some medications may reduce pain or inflammation during the acute phase.

3. Intralesional Injections- Drugs like collagenase (Xiaflex) are injected directly into the scar tissue to break it down and improve curvature. This is one of the few FDA-approved non-surgical treatments.

4. Penile Traction Therapy- A mechanical device gently stretches the penis over time, which can reduce curvature and improve length in some patients.

5. Shockwave Therapy- Used in some cases to reduce pain and soften scar tissue, though evidence is still evolving.

6. Surgery (For Severe or Stable Cases)- Surgery is considered when the condition is stable (usually after 12 months) and causing significant functional problems.

Surgical options include:

• Plication Surgery: Straightens the penis by shortening the longer side.
• Plaque Incision and Grafting: Involves cutting the plaque and placing a graft to allow straightening.
• Penile Implants: For men with severe curvature and ED, implants can straighten the penis and restore function.

Living with Peyronie’s Disease: Emotional Impact

Peyronie’s can take a toll on a man’s mental health. It can lead to:

• Anxiety and depression
• Avoidance of intimacy
• Low self-esteem
• Relationship strain

Support from your partner, counseling, and honest discussions with your urologist can help ease the emotional burden.

When to See a Urologist

Don’t ignore symptoms like:

• Sudden or worsening penile curvature
• Painful erections
• Difficulty having or maintaining erections
• A lump in the shaft of the penis

Early treatment increases the chances of avoiding surgery and restoring normal function.

If you're noticing penile curvature or discomfort during erections, it’s time to stop suffering in silence. Dr. Rahul Yadav, a skilled Urologist, understands the sensitive nature of Peyronie’s Disease and offers advanced, discreet care tailored to your condition.

With a compassionate approach and expertise in both non-surgical and surgical treatment options, Dr. Yadav can help you regain sexual function, reduce discomfort, and restore your confidence. Whether you're in the early or advanced stage, you don’t have to navigate it alone.

Book a confidential consultation with Dr. Rahul Yadav today—and take the first step toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.