No. Peyronie’s disease (PD) is not an STD and cannot be passed through physical or intimate contact. PD is a condition that results from scar tissue developing on the penis that causes painful, curved erections. While some symptoms may include the development of lumps on the organ, these are under the skin and do not present as a sore or blister would. However, nodules near the groin that are flesh-colored and cauliflower-like in texture may indicate genital warts or herpes, which are sexually transmitted.
Any changes in penile texture, shape, or function should be brought to the attention of a medical professional for examination. Health conditions have a better chance of recovery when detected early.
What is Peyronie’s Disease?
Peyronie’s Disease is a non-life-threatening condition, but it can lead to erectile dysfunction, penile pain, and performance anxiety. Although there is no cure, there are many treatments available to address symptoms. The goal of most therapies is to stop the disease from progressing to preserve the quality of sexual performance.
The exact cause of Peyronie’s Disease is currently unknown. However, according to Reviews in Urology, research suggests that penile injury may be one of the highest contributing factors of this condition. If the penis endures physical trauma, either from athletic or sexual activity, scar tissue can form and reduce elasticity. Repeated injuries, such as horse riding or cycling, can also apply pressure to the groin over time and cause damage. Yet some men may be unable to recall such harm occurring.
Other factors that may cause this condition may include the following.
Complications From Surgery
Urologists have found a connection in men who have undergone prostate cancer surgery with the development of PD.
Lifestyle Choices
Men with a history of smoking, excessive alcohol use, and lack of exercise are at an increased risk of developing PD. These conditions contribute to the development of high blood pressure, which is a known contributor of this illness.
Age
The University of Utah notes that middle-aged men around 55 years old are more likely to develop PD. While instances of men in their 30s developing this disease have been reported, it is rare.
There is no technique known to prevent PD. Consistently meeting with a medical professional is the only way to monitor the development of the disease and take precautions to slow its progress.
Physical Symptoms Present in Peyronie’s Disease
Reviews in Urology describes Peyronie’s Disease with the following symptoms:
- Painful erections
- Abnormal penile shape
- Decreased sexual performance
- Difficulty achieving orgasm
- Unusual indentations around the shaft
- Shortening of the penis
If left undetected, this condition can worsen over time. The illness is known to stabilize in severity after six months.
Additionally, PD is known to be a sign of underlying afflictions that the patient may not be aware of. Diabetes, high blood pressure, and some types of cancer can result in erectile dysfunction. Medical intervention can work to identify any of these root causes.
Psychological Impacts of Peyronie’s Disease
Perhaps an overlooked concern arising from having Peyronie’s Disease is the emotional distress it can cause in those affected. According to Translational Andrology and Urology, there are psychological aspects of Peyronie’s disease, and the shame associated with it not only leads to underreporting but also changes in mental health and behavior in the affected individual.
These can include:
- Reduced quality of life due to pain and discomfort from PD
- Depression
- Lowered self-esteem
- Reduced interest in sexual activity
- Anxiety
- Diminished quality of romantic relationships
Translational Andrology and Urology states that in the course of their research, only 44% of men brought up concerns regarding their sexual health to a medical professional. In another statistic, their study reported that 80% of men suffering from Peyronie’s Disease noted high distress levels and lowered quality of life.
Treatments for Peyronie’s Disease
There are a variety of options available to treat PD. A man’s age and state of overall health will determine what sort of treatment may be the most effective.
Some of these therapies include the following.
Injections
Medication in the form of shots into the penis aims to reduce pain and discomfort. By reducing the buildup of plaque in the shaft, these drugs can help a penis regain its normal shape. As with any medication, there can be side effects such as allergic reactions, penile fractures, itching, bleeding, and erection problems.
Vacuum Devices
These are devices that attempt to straighten the penis over several months and require daily use. While small improvements are noted in penile curvature, no significant improvements were found for men experiencing erectile dysfunction in addition to PD.
Surgery
In some severe cases of PD, an operation may be required to restore the penis to its natural state. This may include Peyronie’s graft surgery, inserting a prosthesis, or reconnecting blood vessels.
A GAINSWave provider can determine what treatment can best address the symptoms of this condition.
GAINSWave® Therapy Can Treat Peyronie’s Disease
Many men who have tried medications and other assistive therapies may be at a loss for what to do to treat Peyronie’s Disease. GAINSWave® treatment is a non-invasive procedure that uses high-frequency, low-intensity soundwaves to promote the healing of scar tissue and improve penile blood flow. According to the Korean Journal of Urology, this treatment can reduce penile curvature by 33% and reduce painful erections. In the same study, after completing the regimen, 70% of men reported that they were satisfied with their results.
For more information on this cutting-edge technology, contact a GAINSWave® therapy provider today.
