An abnormal curvature of the penis caused in the erectile tissue by the scar tissue is the Peyronie’s disease. The scar tissue basically prevents the penis from being straight and this curvature can be particularly observed during an erection.

Causes and symptoms

Although the exact cause is still unknown, some experts think it could be due to injury like forceful bending or hitting of the penis. The disease, however, has no link to cancer or STDs.

This disease could develop slowly or pop up all of a sudden, its symptoms include:

• A noticeable lump on the penis shaft when it is flaccid
• Visibly abnormal penis curvature when erect
• Painful erection or tenderness of shaft
• Inability to keep an erection or penetrate

The disease basically has two stages: 1) the active phase when the erections are painful and curvature develops 2) the curvature remains but the pain subsides in the secondary phase

Diagnosis and treatment 

The doctor diagnoses the disease after understanding your medical history and performing a physical examination to understand which stage of the disease you are having. In some cases X-rays, ultrasounds or flow tests are also required to be taken to understand the root cause.

Treatment is required if it affects their sexual life, causes penetration problems or becomes painful. Medication is injected to reduce the pain and curvature. Certain cases where the pain or curvature is severe, surgery is an option to remove the scar tissue or shortening the penis on the unaffected side. With the help of counseling, they can get back to a sexually active life.