The prostate—a gland in men—plays an important role in the male reproductive system. It is a small, rubbery gland about the size of a ping-pong ball, located deep inside the groin, between the base of the penis and the rectum. The prostate is not essential for life, but it is important for reproduction. What is…
Category: General Male Health
Testicular Torsion
About Testicular Torsion For some males, a serious discussion about their private parts can be a little embarrassing. If you are a male, however, it is important that you know to tell a parent or a health care provider if you ever experience genital pain, especially in the scrotum or testes. Genital pain is usually…
Penile Fracture
Contrary to popular belief, it is possible to fracture a penis. The penis is an assembly of tissue, not a bone. Penis fractures are a rare occurrence, but when they do happen, 95% of injuries occur during vaginal intercourse.1 A penile injury is not limited by sexual activity. A fracture can occur by blunt force trauma…
Epididymal Hypertension (Blue Balls)
What is Epididymal Hypertension? Epididymal hypertension, or “blue balls” refers to testicular aching that occurs when the blood in the male’s genitals is retained after prolonged sexual arousal and is not dissipated by an orgasm. What Causes Epididymal Hypertension? When a man becomes sexually aroused, the arteries that carry blood to his genitals enlarge, while the…
Male Genital Self-Exam
The major regions of the male genitalia include the penis, scrotum, and urethra. A genital self-examination consists of physically and visually investigating for abnormalities. Maintenance of sexual health includes regular self-examination of the external genitalia. Individuals should perform self-examinations as often as possible to identify abnormal masses and avoid complications that may arise from conditions…
Hypospadias (Abnormal Urethral Opening)
Hypospadias Hypospadias is a birth defect in boys in which the opening of the urethra is not located at the tip of the penis.1 This irregular opening can form anywhere from just below the end of the penis (on the shaft), to the scrotum. This is a relatively common condition that occurs in approximately one…