Penile numbness occurs when there is no sensation when the penis is touched or stimulated. The penis has many nerve endings and it is usually the most sensitive one. When a person sits in a particular position for a long time penile numbness can occur. The symptoms experienced by the individual are very varied and include feeling like the legs or arms are asleep. Some people feel that the blood flow to the penis is completely cut off. In some cases even the scrotum may lose their sensation. Penile numbness may also be accompanied by other symptoms such as pins and needles in the scrotum and penis. There will be tingling and burning sensation in the area. In some cases, the skin around the penis may turn dark blue or purple. There may be coldness in the penis. In addition, loss of sensation may occur in the perineum.
- Loss of sensation in the scrotum, perineum or penis
- Burning or tingling sensation, needle-like sensation
- Coldness in the penis or scrotum
- Blue or purplish skin
Numb penis: Penis becomes numb when a person is unable to feel the sensations they normally feel, including sensations such as touch or arousal. Symptoms of numbness vary from person to person. For some, it may feel similar to an arm or leg falling asleep. Others may feel as though penis has been cut off. Some people with numbness feel very little sensation on stimuli. Some do not feel anything even with strong stimuli.
A number of issues can lead to loss of penis sensation. Certain activities and lifestyle factors may increase the risk.
- Injury
- Low testosterone
- Nerve problems
- Peyronie’s disease
- Prostate cancer
Injury on or around the penis it can lead to numbness. This can be a result of pressure on nerves or blood vessels. Usually, once normal blood supply is restored then the sensation gets back to normal. If it is not return to normal see a doctor. There are many activities that can injure the penis. Sports, bumping into the corner of a cabinet, or getting a blow to the genital region can result in loss of penile sensation. Sometimes vigorous sex or masturbation can also cause injury especially when the penis has strong erection. The use of a penile pump can also cause injury and decrease sensitivity in glans penis.
- Cycling
- Sitting for too long
- General irritation
- Friction from tight clothing
Cycling
Injury on or around the penis it can lead to numbness. This can be a result of pressure on nerves or blood vessels. Usually, once normal blood supply is restored then the sensation gets back to normal. If it is not return to normal see a doctor. There are many activities that can injure the penis. Sports, bumping into the corner of a cabinet, or getting a blow to the genital region can result in loss of penile sensation. Sometimes vigorous sex or masturbation can also cause injury especially when the penis has strong erection. The use of a penile pump can also cause injury and decrease sensitivity in glans penis.
Sitting for too long
Prolonged sitting on hard, uncomfortable or unpadded chairs can cause injury by causing more pressure on the penis or perineum. Perineum should be free; it should not support the weight of body.
General irritation
Soaps and other hygiene products can irritate the sensitive skin on and around the penis.
Using mild, hypoallergenic soaps will help.
Friction from tight clothing
Tight or rough underwear can irritate the penis and cause itching or tingling. This type of clothing can cause redness, especially around the tip of the penis.
Testosterone is an important sex hormone in regulating muscle mass and sexual drive.
Many older people have lower Testosterone levels. This will lead to a decrease in pleasure from sexual activity. As a result, they mistake for penis numbness. Low testosterone can lead to numb sensation; but will not affect pain sensation. A person will feel pain if penis or scrotum is pinched. Other symptoms of low testosterone include changes in mood, sex drive and energy levels.
Problems with the nerves in this area can cause numbness in the penis, scrotum and perineum.
A person may experience this numbness in the lower body and groin / pelvic area. Sometimes they can also experience extreme coldness or burn and stabbing pins and needles.
Some of the problems causing nerve damage & penis numbness are:
- Diabetes
- Cancer and its treatment
- Blood vessel Disease
Peyronie’s disease is penis problem caused by scar tissue, called plaque, that forms inside the penis. It can result in bent penis instead of straight erect penis. Most men with Peyronie’s disease can still have sex but with pain.
The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located between the bladder and the penis in men. It plays an important role in sex and reproduction.
The prostate secretes fluid that nourishes and protects sperm. During ejaculation, the prostate squeezes its fluid secretion and expels with sperm as semen. Prostate cancer can lead to numbness, tingling and other changes in the penis.
Dr. Vijayakumar did his MBBS in Kilpauk Medical College and later went on to Madras Medical College for his Master courses in Clinical Pathology. He underwent masters in Psychology and Yoga. Underwent Fellowship training in Andrology and Clinical Embryology by Prof Ariff Bongso. Did his PhD in Hormones, Yoga and Sexual problems. He has been trained by the Council of Sex Education & Parenthood International (India). He was the first medical professional to start an exclusive clinic for the management of sexual problems in Salem,Tamil Nadu in the year 1988. He has put up more than thirty years experience. He has offered professional help to thousands of persons especially newly married. Besides treating sexual dysfunctions, he is also an expert in treating pre-marital counselling.
Trekking and offroad jeeping are his other passions.