Healthy Mindset is Key to Healthy Sexuality

Last time we went over all the six sex secrets, and if you didn’t read that overview yet, it’s essential that you first read the overview and only then continue with reading this article here.

Healthy Mindset is Key to Healthy Sexuality

Not too many men realize that the quality of their mindset plays a critical role in the quality of their sexual life. In this article, we will briefly explore this hidden link between mindset and sexuality.

I can talk about this subject for few days straight, but I want to keep this article short and to the point, because I have five more sex secrets to tell you about, so I choose to explain to you here a concept I call “The Mindset and Penis Connection.”

Did you know that your sexual performance is affected not only by how good you are in bed or how long you can last, but it’s first and foremost influenced by how you think (AKA “your mindset”)?

I’ll give you here a good example that will make this point very easy to understand:

Imagine a guy who has performance anxiety, and he’s now about to make love to a woman. Will you agree with me that he’ll probably have a hard time getting a super hard erection that stays hard because of the anxiety and all the worries he has in his head?

The same happens with premature ejaculation because if during sex, a man starts to fixate on the idea that he won’t be able to hold it, he’ll be more likely to experience premature ejaculation (that’s a fact).

Can you begin to see how the penis is influenced by how the mind thinks?

I hope that by now, you begin to see the mindset-penis connection, and maybe you can even remember a time when something similar happened to you in the past.

The Sexual Confidence Loop

I have good and bad news for you, and they are both the same!

The news is that your mindset works like a spiral.

You can make it stronger and stronger in a positive way and master your mind. Or you can let it take you down to a negative place deeper and deeper, and in the end, it will master you.

To illustrate that, imagine a guy that just had sex, and it was terrible and humiliating because he had some performance issue this time for whatever reason.

How do you think he will approach sex the next time?

In most cases, the answer is that he will probably have a bit more performance anxiety, which will negatively affect his erection and performance even more. In the end, he will probably end up feeling even worse with even more performance anxiety.

On the other hand, now imagine that a different guy that just had sex and everything was great and his sexual partner really enjoyed it and even complimented him in the end about how good he is in bed.

How do you think our second guy will approach sex the next time?

I guess that he will probably approach it with even more passion, which will allow him to have a stronger erection and project more sexual confidence, which will likely make the act more enjoyable for his partner.

Can you now see how your mindset evolves in a reinforcing loop/spiral for better or for worse? Do you now understand how important your mindset is when it comes to your sexuality and why you should pay attention to it?

In conclusion:

If you want to master your sexuality as a man, you first need to start paying attention to how you think, be aware of the sexual confidence loop and do whatever you can to make it stronger and stronger in a positive way.

And remember that it’s all in your head!

About the Author:

David Finer is the man behind VibratingLove.com. He was written extensively on matters related to male enhancement and sexuality, and has written this article specifically for PEGym members looking to get a better understanding of their overall sexuality.

How is a Micropenis Defined?

How is a Micropenis Defined?

Medically reviewed by Karen Richardson Gill, MD, FAAP, specialty in pediatrics, on November 28, 2018 — Written by Tim Jewell

This article is a repost which originally appeared on HealthLine

Overview

Micropenis is a medical term for a penis, usually diagnosed at birth, that is well under the normal size range for an infant. In every other way, including structure, appearance, and function, a micropenis is like any other healthy penis.

What causes a micropenis?

Before birth, a male infant’s genitalia develop in response to certain hormones, mainly androgens.

If his body doesn’t produce enough androgens or if the body doesn’t respond normally to androgen production, one result can be a micropenis, also called a microphallus.

Medical disorders that affect the pituitary gland or the hypothalamus, both of which play key roles in hormone production, are associated with micropenis.

While a micropenis can develop on its own, with no other hormone-related conditions, it can occur along with other disorders.

It’s not always clear why some boys are born with a hormone disorder that causes micropenis. Family history of micropenis may raise the risk. A 2011 French study, suggests that fetal exposure to pesticides and other chemicals may increase the chances of micropenis development.

What it is and what it isn’t

Assuming there are no other health concerns, a micropenis functions the same as a normal, healthy penis. The ability to urinate and become erect shouldn’t be affected.

A micropenis is sometimes associated with a lower sperm count, however, so fertility may be reduced.

How is a micropenis diagnosed

In addition to getting a personal and family medical history, the doctor will do a physical examination. That should include a proper measurement of the penis.

To make a thorough diagnosis, the doctor may order a blood test to check for hormone disorders.

If you suspect your baby has a micropenis, consult a pediatric urologist or a pediatric endocrinologist.

A urologist is a doctor who specializes in the health of the urinary tract and male reproductive system. An endocrinologist specializes in hormone disorders.

If you have any concerns about your own genitalia, see a urologist who treats adult patients.

What’s considered a correct measurement?

What defines a micropenis is its stretched penile length (SPL).

Stretched penile length (SPL) for babies

The average male infant’s SPL is 2.8 to 4.2 centimeters (1.1 to 1.6 inches), while the length of a micropenis is defined as less than 1.9 cm (0.75 in.).

An SPL that is somewhere in between 1.9 and 2.8 cm in length may be considered shorter than average, but not a micropenis.

SPL for boys

For prepubescent boys who are 9 to 10 years old, for example, the average SPL is 6.3 cm (2.48 in.), meaning an SPL of 3.8 cm (1.5 in.) or shorter would be considered a micropenis.

An SPL between 3.8 cm and 6.3 cm would just be considered shorter than average.

SPL for adults

In an adult, the average stretched penile length is about 13.24 cm (5.21 in.). An adult micropenis is a stretched penile length of 9.32 cm (3.67 in.) or less.

Group Micropenis SPL measurement
Newborn babies <1.9 cm (0.75 in.)
Older, prepubescent boys <3.8 cm (1.5 in.)
Adult men <9.32 cm (3.67 in.)

 

The proper way to measure for a micropenis is to gently stretch it and measure the length from the tip to the base, closest to the body.

Mistaken for a micropenis

Micropenis is actually a rare condition, affecting an estimated 0.6 percent of males worldwide. But what appears to be a small penis may not technically qualify as a micropenis. It may instead be a condition known as buried penis.

Buried penis

A buried penis is a penis of normal size, but it is hidden or buried under folds of skin of the abdomen, thigh, or scrotum. A buried penis is usually diagnosed in infancy, but it can develop later in life.

The condition may be caused by an abnormality that a boy is born with or it may be due to the buildup of fat in the abdomen and around the genitals in someone with morbid obesity.

As men age, their pelvic floor muscles tend to weaken. This affects how the penis rests and it affects erectile function. Weaker muscles can allow the penis to recede somewhat, leading to a buried penis appearance in some men.

Healthy pelvic floor muscles also contract when a man has an erection, helping to ensure proper blood flow in the penis. Weaker muscles allow blood to escape, making it difficult to maintain an erection.

Webbed penis

Another condition that may be mistaken for micropenis is webbed penis, also known as an “inconspicuous penis.” A baby boy can be born with it or it can develop from a circumcision complication.

With a webbed penis, skin from the scrotum is attached unusually high on the shaft of the penis. The result is that the penis itself looks smaller than normal because just the tip and some of the shaft is visible.

Cosmetic surgery can correct the problem, but that usually is delayed until a boy reaches his teens or adulthood.

Micropenis treatment

Talking with endocrinologists, urologists, and surgeons about treatment options will also help you understand what your options are at any age.

Treating micropenis can be helpful in boosting self-confidence later in life and improving the chances of satisfying sexual activity.

Treatment that begins earlier in life can lead to better results. Your child’s age, medical history, and the extent of the condition will help determine what treatment options make the most sense.

Hormone therapy

Hormone therapy can often be done starting at an early age. It may help stimulate penile growth. It begins with a short course of testosterone treatments to see how the penis responds. The hormone can be delivered through an injection or through a gel or ointment applied directly to the penis.

Testosterone therapy may help stimulate penile growth in infancy, though there is less evidence that it is effective in puberty and adulthood. Other types of hormone treatment may be tried if testosterone is ineffective.

Phalloplasty

Surgery to correct micropenis, a procedure called phalloplasty, is more common in adolescents and adults than in infants and young children. It is usually done if hormone treatments have been ineffective. However, the surgery can be done at a young age.

There are risks, as with any type of surgery. Complications affecting the urinary tract, erectile function, and other function may occur, and may require subsequent procedures. Some also argue that resulting changes to size or length are not significant enough to outweigh risks.

Still, advances in plastic surgerymean that for many boys and men, a surgically modified penis that allows for healthy urinary and sexual function is possible. It is important to work with an experienced surgeon and understand all of the potential risks and benefits of surgery.

Accepting your body

In the media and in society generally, penis size is often mistakenly equated with manliness. In an intimate relationship, having a micropenis can require adjustments and healthy attitudes by both partners.

Providing some counseling at an early age may help a boy cope better as he ages and equip him with strategies to deal with peers and potential partners and achieve a rewarding quality of life.

Therapists along with medical doctors are available for you, regardless of your age, to give guidance during important aspects of dealing with life — emotional, sexual, and biological.

The takeaway

Micropenis has specific medical definition and measurement. Living with a micropenis can be a challenge that may require psychological counseling to help you adjust, whether you want to seek medical treatment or not.

Researching and discussing treatment options with health professionals may lead to positive outcomes.

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

Behold: The Los Angeles Rams’ New Logo Is A Giant Penis With Horns

Behold: The Los Angeles Rams’ New Logo Is A Giant Penis With Horns

By Sam Fels

This article is a repost which originally appeared on DEADSPIN

The Rams unveiled their new logos today as they get ready to move into their new stadium in Inglewood this fall.

And, yep, that’s totally a penis in the middle of the Ram’s face. No, it’s not a nose. It’s a penis.

But when you’ve f**ked over a couple cities in relocation and an entire neighborhood for your new playground, why shouldn’t your team logo be a dick?

Kudos to the Rams’ design team and the folks who signed off on this gem without seeing the big penis staring them in the face.

The Health Benefits of Sex

The Health Benefits of Sex

Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, PhD, MSN, RN, IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT on July 29, 2016 — Written by Pamela Rogers, MS, PhD and Ana Gotter

This article is a repost which originally appeared on HealthLine

Sex is an important factor in your life

Sex and sexuality are a part of life. Aside from reproduction, sex can be about intimacy and pleasure. Sexual activity, penile-vaginal intercourse (PVI), or masturbation, can offer many surprising benefits to all facets of your life:

  • physical
  • intellectual
  • emotional
  • psychological
  • social

Sexual health is more than avoiding diseases and unplanned pregnancies. It’s also about recognizing that sex can be an important part of your life, according to the American Sexual Health Association.

How can sex benefit your body?

This study suggests that sex can be good cardiovascular exerciseTrusted Source in younger men and women. Though sex isn’t enough exercise on its own, it can be considered light exercise.

Some of the benefits you can get from sex include:

  • lowering blood pressure
  • burning calories
  • increasing heart health
  • strengthening muscles
  • reducing your risk of heart disease, stroke, and hypertension
  • increasing libido

People with active sex lives tend to exercise more frequently and have better dietary habits than those who are less sexually active. Physical fitness may also improve sexual performance overall.

Stronger immune system

In a study of immunity in people in romantic relationships, people who had frequent sex (one to two times a week) had more immunoglobulin A (IgA) in their saliva. People who had infrequent sex (less than once a week) had significantly less IgA.

IgA is the antibody that plays a role in preventing illnesses and is the first line of defense against human papillomavirus, or HPV.

But those who had sex more than three times a week had the same amount of IgA as those who had infrequent sex. The study suggests that anxiety and stress can possibly cancel out the positive effects of sex.

Better sleep

Your body releases oxytocin, also called the “love” or “intimacy” hormone, and endorphins during an orgasm. The combination of these hormones can act as sedation.

Better sleep can contribute to:

  • a stronger immune system
  • a longer lifespan
  • feeling more well-rested
  • having more energy during the day

Headache relief

Another study shows that sexual activity can provide full or partial relief from migraines and cluster headaches.

Of people who were sexually active during their attacks:

  • 60 percent reported an improvement during a migraine
  • 70 percent reported moderate to complete relief during a migraine
  • 37 percent reported improvement of symptoms in cluster headaches
  • 91 percent reported moderate to complete relief in cluster headaches
How sex benefits all genders

In men

A recent review found that men who had more frequent penile-vaginal intercourse (PVI) had less risk of developing prostate cancer.

One study found that men who averaged having 4.6 to 7 ejaculations a week were 36 percent less likely to receive a prostate cancer diagnosis before the age of 70. This is in comparison to men who reported ejaculating 2.3 or fewer times a week on average.

For men, sex may even affect your mortality. One study that had a 10 year follow-up reported that men who had frequent orgasms (defined as two or more a week) had a 50 percent lower mortality risk than those who had sex less often.

Although results are conflicting, the quality and health of your sperm may increase with increased sexual activity, as some research suggests.

In women

Having an orgasm increases blood flow and releases natural pain-relieving chemicals.

Sexual activity in women can:

  • improve bladder control
  • reduce incontinence
  • relieve menstrual and premenstrual cramps
  • improve fertility
  • build stronger pelvic muscles
  • help produce more vaginal lubrication
  • potentially protect you against endometriosis, or the growing of tissue outside your uterus

The act of sex can help strengthen your pelvic floor. A strengthened pelvic floor can also offer benefits like less pain during sex and reduced chance of a vaginal prolapse. One study shows that PVI can result in reflexive vaginal contractions caused by penile thrusting.

Women who continue to be sexually active after menopause are less likely to have significant vaginal atrophy, or the thinning of vaginal walls. Vaginal atrophy can cause pain during sex and urinary symptoms.

Penis Fillers: The Hard Truth About If Size Really Matters

Penis Fillers: The Hard Truth About If Size Really Matters

By Pie Mulumba

This article is a repost which originally appeared on Longevity

In a world that seems to be obsessed with size, there’s a strong emphasis on having certain body parts be as big as possible, from breast implants to butt injections. That said, the need for a bigger size has resulted in the huge growth of the penis enlargement industry.

The average penis size is 5.2 inches (13.2cm) long and 4.6 inches (11.6cm) round. Now, while the debate on whether size matters rages on, it appears that some men have already made up their minds. Believing that it does indeed matter, these men, who feel under-endowed, have taken matters into their own hands by looking at pills, creams, and even vacuum pumps. However, it doesn’t end there. Enter, penis fillers.

Wait, did you just say penis fillers?

Yes, penis fillers. A non-surgical procedure, that can cost around $5000, whereby a liquid – usually hyaluronic acid – is injected into the soft tissue under the skin of the penis shaft. The purpose of the procedure is meant to increase a man’s flaccid girth, usually by one or two centimeters in circumference and the effects are intended to last for around 18 months.

Additionally, some clinics use fat injections to increase girth. The fat is harvested from another part of the patient’s body, usually the lower abdomen. Unlike hyaluronic acid, fat injections are permanent.

Are there any risks?

Mr. Asif Muneer, from the British Association of Urological Surgeons, revealed to the BBC that he would discourage his patients from partaking in any form of penis enlargement surgeries,

All these augmentation procedures are mainly to increase your flaccid girth, and it will have no benefit on your erect length – so functionally it’s not going to improve matters” he explains, “If anything, it might lead to complications that will impair their sexual function later on.”

Additional side effects may also include painful bruising, swelling, infections, unevenness scarring. There may even be a heightened risk of erectile dysfunction due to blood vessel blockage. What’s more, there is also the risk of the filler ending up in the foreskin. This would then mean that the patient would require circumcision.

So, what exactly would possess a man to have hyaluronic acid or fat harvested from his body injected into his penis shaft?

The rise of penis enhancements

When it comes to the impact that social media has on body image, a lot of the attention is focused on the woman’s perspective. However, the rise of social media and the influencers culture can also affect how men view themselves.

For instance, research published in the journal New Media and Society found that men who reported looking at male fitness posts on social media revealed that they regularly compared their appearance to others more often, and there was also an increased desire to have muscles.

Men and their best friends

It may not be premature to admit that the rise of penis enhancements goes beyond sexual satisfaction. With the constant innuendos about large sizes being more desirable, as well as men equating a large size to masculinity and sexual competence, some men may begin to have low self-esteem if they feel that their sizes aren’t up to standard. In fact, a study published in the journal Psychology of Men & Masculinity found that even men with average-size penises wish they were bigger.

Additionally, a recent study published in the Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy that asked for the male participants to self-report their penis length found that many of the men embellished their responses. In fact, only 26.9% of the sexually experienced men self-reported penis lengths of less than 6 inches. On the other hand, 30.8% self-reported lengths of 7 inches or more. What’s more, the study also suggested that men with a high level of social desirability were more likely than others to self-report having a large penis.

So with all of that said, there’s only one question left to ask;

Okay, but what do women want?

Kindness.

According to a study from Clue, that surveyed at 64 000 women, kindness is the most important thing women look for in a partner – not the size of a shaft. Speaking of which, the survey also revealed that the majority of straight women would prefer a male partner to have an average-sized penis, rather than a massive penis. That’s right – women care less about penis size than men. 

In fact, women are more worried about it being too big as opposed to too small. This is because a bigger than average penis may cause some pain and discomfort during sexual intercourse. This then reduces the chances of more sex in the future. What’s more, there is also the consensus that men with big penises will solely rely on their size. As such, they will not be as engaging or conscious of their partner’s needs. This, of course, can result in a woman being very dissatisfied with her sex life.

To men, a big penis may sound like a lovely idea in theory, but there’s really nothing to it. Rather, put your physical and mental health before anything else. After all, it’s not the size of the boat that matters, but rather the motion of the ocean.

References

Fatt, S. J., Fardouly, J., & Rapee, R. M. (2019). #malefitspo: Links between viewing fitspiration posts, muscular-ideal internalisation, appearance comparisons, body satisfaction, and exercise motivation in men. New Media & Society, 21(6), 1311–1325. https://doi.org/10.1177/1461444818821064

King, B., Duncan, L., Clinkenbeard, K., Rutland, M., et al.(2019) Social Desirability and Young Men’s Self-Reports of Penis Size, Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy, 45:5, 452-455, DOI: 10.1080/0092623X.2018.1533905

Johnston, L., McLellan, T., & McKinlay, A. (2014). (Perceived) size really does matter: Male dissatisfaction with penis size. Psychology of Men & Masculinity, 15(2), 225–228. doi: 10.1037/a0033264

Doctors claim new coronavirus ‘may cause damage to a man’s TESTICLES’ as they urge male patients to take fertility tests upon recovery

Doctors claim new coronavirus ‘may cause damage to a man’s TESTICLES’ as they urge male patients to take fertility tests upon recovery

  • Doctors in Wuhan warned the disease may affect the production of sperm
  • However no study has proved the new coronavirus will affect men’s fertility
  • The experts suggested the likelihood of serious immune damage in the testes
  • They urged recovered male patients to test sperm quality and hormone levels  
  • Coronavirus symptoms: what are they and should you see a doctor?

By Tracy You For Mailonline

This article is a repost which originally appeared on DailyMail

Edited for content

Medics from a hospital in Wuhan have suggested the likelihood that the novel coronavirus can affect the production of sperm and the formation of male sex hormones.

Although the coronavirus mainly targets one’s lungs and immune system, it can, in theory, impair a man’s abilities to reproduce, according to Wuhan’s Tongji Hospital.

The comments were made yesterday by Prof Li Yufeng and his team at the hospital’s Centre for Reproductive Medicine.

Tongji Hospital, affiliated to Huazhong University of Science and Technology, is one of the hospitals designated by the government to treat coronavirus patients since an outbreak started in Wuhan in January.

Coronaviruses are so named because their structure has jagged edges which look like a royal crown – corona is crown in Latin (Pictured, an illustration of the COVID-19 virus released by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

The comments were made yesterday by Prof Li Yufeng at the Centre for Reproductive Medicine from Wuhan’s Tongji Hospital.

According to the experts, the new coronavirus, known as SARS-CoV-2, enters human cells and causes tissue damage by binding its spike protein to cell membrane protein angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2).

ACE2 is known to be present in other human organs apart from the lungs and can especially be abundant in a man’s testes. It can be concentrated in several cells which are directly related to the male reproductive abilities, including the germ cells, supporting cells and Leydig cells, the team claimed.

They added that during the SARS outbreak in 2002 and 2003, medics observed serious immune system damage in the testicles of some male patients.

Even though doctors did not detect the SARS coronavirus, or SARS-CoV, in patients’ testicles, they could suffer inflammation in their sexual organs, the study said.

In a report released by the hospital, Prof Li and his team showed a graphic (above) illustrating the cells in a healthy testicle. They studied the impact of SARS coronavirus on male patients

Another image released by the team shows the cells in a patient’s testicle after he recovered from an infection caused by the SARS coronavirus. The medics have warned of similar inflammation to men struck down with the novel coronavirus, which has killed at least 4,718

Since the new coronavirus is highly similar to the SARS coronavirus and the two share the same host cell receptor ACE2, the team concluded that, in theory, the new coronavirus could cause damage to men’s testicles.

‘Therefore, for men who have had the infection, especially those who need to reproduce, it is best to undergo relevant fertility tests, such as sperm quality and hormone level tests, upon recovery to detect possible problems as soon as possible,’ a hospital report wrote.

More than 100 countries are now fighting the fast-spreading contagion, which was first detected Wuhan in central China.

China today declared that ‘the peak of the coronavirus in the country has passed’.

The World Health Organization yesterday declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic after blaming ‘alarming levels of inaction’ by governments across the planet for fuelling the crisis.

While China today declared that ‘the peak of the coronavirus in the country has passed’.

The disease has killed at least 4,718 people and infected more than 126,000 across the world.

Does Coconut Oil Affect Testosterone Levels?

Does Coconut Oil Affect Testosterone Levels?

This article is a repost which originally appeared on HealthLine

Written by Gavin Van De Walle, MS, RD on March 9, 2020

This article is a repost which originally appeared on HealthLine

Coconut oil comes from the copra — the kernel or meat — of coconuts.

It contains a high percentage of saturated fats, particularly from medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs).

Coconut oil has various applications in cooking, beauty, skin care, and health.

Along with these applications, it has been suggested that coconut oil increases testosterone levels and improves sexual function, but research on the topic is scarce.

This article discusses everything you need to know about coconut oil’s effect on testosterone levels in men.

Testosterone levels

Testosterone is a powerful hormone.

While both men and women produce it, men produce 20 times more than women.

In men, testosterone plays an important role in muscle and body hair growth, bone health, and sexual function, among other areas.

Testosterone levels peak in men around the age of 19 and decline by approximately 16% by age 40, on average.

Most of the testosterone in your blood is bound to two proteins — albumin and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG).

SHBG is strongly bound to testosterone, making the hormone unavailable for use by your body, whereas albumin is weakly bound and can be used by your body with some effort.

The remaining testosterone, which is known as free testosterone, is not bound to proteins and can be readily used by your body.

Free testosterone and albumin-bound testosterone make up your bioavailable or usable testosterone.

The sum of your bioavailable and SHBG-bound testosterone make up your total testosterone.

SUMMARY

Testosterone is the predominant male hormone that increases muscle mass, maintains bone strength, and regulates sexual function.

Coconut oil and dihydrotestosterone (DHT)

While testosterone levels are influenced by a number of lifestyle factors, such as diet and exercise, coconut oil’s effects on testosterone levels in humans remain largely unknown.

Still, coconut oil contains a high percentage of fat from MCTs — about 54% — in the form of lauric acid (42%), caprylic acid (7%), and capric acid (5%). These MCTs have been shown to affect a hormone similar to testosterone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

Your body uses an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase to convert about 5% of free testosterone to DHT.

DHT performs many of the same functions as testosterone but is thought to contribute to male pattern hair loss.

Interestingly, MCTs — especially lauric acid — have been shown to block the enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in test-tube and animal studies.

Medications called 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, which are prescribed for the treatment of male pattern hair loss, work in the same way by blocking the 5-alpha reductase enzyme.

Still, studies in humans are needed to determine whether consuming MCTs from coconut oil helps prevent or treat male pattern hair loss, as the condition is also influenced by genetics.

SUMMARY

Animal and test-tube studies have demonstrated that MCTs inhibit the enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT, a hormone linked to male pattern hair loss.

Erectile dysfunction

Low testosterone has been linked to erectile dysfunction (ED), the inability to get or maintain an erection.

The condition can be debilitating for men, cause embarrassment and low self-esteem, and lead to an unsatisfactory sex life.

The global prevalence of ED ranges from 3–77% and tends to become more common with age.

Specific foods, including coconut oil, have been suggested to increase testosterone and improve sexual function.

Still, there is no evidence to suggest that coconut oil can directly increase testosterone or alleviate ED.

ED is common among people with diseases or conditions that affect the blood vessels, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and overweight or obesity.

If any of these are present, you may be able to reduce or improve ED with lifestyle changes, such as engaging in regular physical activity, consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, maintaining a healthy weight, and not smoking (20).

SUMMARY

There is no evidence to suggest that coconut oil increases testosterone or alleviates ED. Exercising regularly, consuming a healthy diet, and maintaining a healthy weight are lifestyle factors that may improve ED.

The bottom line

Coconut oil is an oil that’s extracted from the copra or meat of coconuts.

It contains a high percentage of MCTs, which animal and test-tube studies have shown can block the enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT — the hormone linked to male pattern baldness.

Still, evidence that coconut oil can help treat this condition is lacking.

While coconut oil has been suggested to alleviate ED and improve sexual function by increasing testosterone, there is no research to support this theory.

 

 

6 Ways To Keep Your Penis In Peak Condition And Have The Best Sex of Your Life

6 Ways To Keep Your Penis In Peak Condition And Have The Best Sex of Your Life

A top urologist breaks down his biggest rules for male sexual wellness.

Dr. Judson Brandeis

Presented by Vitality Connect

This article is a repost which originally appeared on MAXIM

As men get older, there are certain changes that seem inevitable, especially having to do with our bodies. One of the amazing things about the advances in modern medicine is that our life expectancy is at the highest it has been in human history. And as our lives become longer, so does our appetite to enjoy ourselves with our partners. With intimacy being such an important part of every relationship, one of the most common questions I get asked is how to keep a man’s penis working well. 

Here are the six most important things I tell my patients to do if they want to have the best sex of their lives:

Check Your Testosterone Levels

Testosterone peaks for men in their twenties, and then slowly declines over time. In fact, it’s not uncommon for a man’s testosterone to drop by 75% over the remainder of his life. When testosterone is low, men often feel grumpy. Other signs include loss of muscle, fat gain, trouble sleeping, loss of libido and/or erectile dysfunction. 

By correcting testosterone deficiencies, a man can expect to enjoy many benefits normally associated with youth like an improvement in body composition, sleep quality and most notably, libido. Testosterone therapy also aids erectile function, meaning not only an increase in appetite but in performance, as well.

Boost Your Nitric Oxide Levels

There are two different, but complementary systems to move blood around the body. One, the Nitric Oxide system, releases compounds that trigger the blood vessels to open, while the Phosphodiesterase (PDE) system helps to close them. Unfortunately, as a man ages his nitric oxide levels decline. You can boost nitric oxide levels easily over time by adding more watermelon, beets and greens to your diet, or if rapid improvement is desired, taking a supplement like AFFIRM.

Explore PDE-5 Inhibitors

Replenishing your body’s nitric oxide is not the only part of a successful strategy. The other system at work during an erection is the Phosphodiesterase (PDE) system. Through research, science has been able to determine which enzymes reduce penile blood flow. It turns out the compound in question is called PDE-5 and many medications for treating ED block its function. PDE-5 inhibitors like Viagra and Cialis inhibit these enzymes, channeling blood preferentially into the penis. The medication starts working after thirty minutes and reaches full potency in about an hour. Men can take these medications daily if they want to always feel “locked and loaded.”

Find a GAINSWave Provider

While taking a nitric oxide booster or a PDE-5 inhibitor can certainly produce some results, research has shown the best outcome is when they are taken together. However, there is a critical third element that is often overlooked: the pipes. Unlike medications, GAINSWave® targets the underlying causes of erectile dysfunction, permanently growing new blood vessels to both increase the flow of blood to the penis while also improving erectile firmness. 

GAINSWave awakens dormant stem cells and triggers the release of growth factors which improve, repair and expand the blood vessels. And since GAINSWave is nonsurgical, painless and without side effects, intimacy is no longer tied to a schedule, returning spontaneity and vigor to any relationship. Therapy typically requires between six to twelve sessions, each around twenty minutes, spread out over the course of a few weeks. 

Although a little awkward at first, most patients quickly get used to any discomfort within the first few moments of the procedure. Improvement can begin immediately, but most men can expect peak performance to begin around four to six weeks post-treatment and last for a year or more depending on the health of the person.

Get Pumped

Did you know young men typically experience three to six erections every night? These erections last between five to ten minutes and account for thirty to sixty minutes of oxygenated stretching for the penis. As men age, these erections decrease in frequency and intensity, causing many men’s penis to shrink over time. 

Some even lose erectile ability completely. Using a vacuum device or pump once or twice a day to stretch the penis can help combat this. The pump artificially inflates the penis with oxygenated blood to help restore full function and size. Like the other items on this list, vacuum devices can be effective on their own, but are much more effective when used in concert with GAINSWave therapy. Vacuum devices are a great way to improve penile health as men age.

Bone Up On The Facts

Have you ever wondered why your tissue is able to repair itself seamlessly whenever you cut yourself? This is due to more than a hundred tiny, versatile growth factors stored within the platelets in your blood. Whenever there is a trauma, your body releases chemicals that attract existing platelets to the site of the injury. The result is focused growth of new blood vessels and tissue in that area. 

In medicine, platelet-rich plasma is often used with other treatments to speed healing. For a man, undergoing GAINSWave therapy can yield far better results when used in conjunction with PRP. GAINSWave plants the seed by stimulating the stem cells in the affected area. PRP is then added like fertilizer, accelerating the growth of new blood vessels within the penis. Although it has been in use in orthopedics, hair growth and dermatology, PRP therapy is only now being studied for its efficacy at repairing and restoring erectile function.

There are many options for optimizing male sexual health. Most, when used together, can not only restore your ability to enjoy life, for a lot of men it means enhancing life beyond their wildest dreams. Penile health may not be the most comfortable subject to bring up with your doctor, but the only way to ensure a great tomorrow is by doing something about it today.

I recently hosted a two-hour long webinar with wellness expert Susan Bratton that took an in-depth dive into the all the treatments that are helping men optimize their bedroom performance. Luckily, we recorded it! It’s among the most educational breakdowns on all things “penis”- related available. Watch the video above to find out why.

There Are 20 Different Penis Types — and They’re All Normal!

There Are 20 Different Penis Types — and They’re All Normal!

Medically reviewed by Jennifer Litner, LMFT, CST on January 29, 2020 — Written by Adrienne Santos-Longhurst

This article is a repost which originally appeared on HealthLine

Penises are as unique as the people they hang from, and they’re all good. More than good, really.

There’s no such thing as a bad shape or size — just bad information on how to use it.

Here’s how to feel great about what you’ve got and what to do with it.

What’s the typical shape?

If there’s anything typical about penis shape, it’s that most tend to be cylinder-ish, often with a wider — or at least a more pronounced — head.

Curved upward

Like a banana, this penis curves slightly upward, at least when it’s erect.

The upward curve means an advantage when it comes to stimulating all the right spots for toe-curling, full-body orgasms: the G-spot, A-spot, and prostate.

Pro tip: You can keep it simple with any variation of the missionary position and still rock their world thanks to that curve. That goes for P-in-V and anal sex.

Curved downward

Flip that banana around and you’ve got this shape, which is basically a penis with a slight downward curve. Again, the curve is noticeable only during an erection.

Pro tip: Turn that frown upside down with rear-entry positions that make A-, G-, and P-spot stimulation a breeze. Riding into the sunset is a must-try!

C-shaped

This type of penis has a noticeable curve to the right. If you or your partner is rockin’ a major curve, a willingness to experiment with different angles is a must.

Positions that allow you to work the curve toward the front wall of the vagina or rectum give you the same hot-spot advantage as those with banana shapes.

Pro tip: Try the T-bone. This delectable position begins with the penetrating partner on their side with their curve pointed toward the sky. The receiving partner lies on their back in a T angle and drapes their legs over their partner’s hip, ready for P-in-V or anal.

Straight

The straight penis maintains pretty much the same shape from shaft to head.

With no angles to accommodate, you can eenie-meenie-miney-mo your way through every sex position you both consent to with little-to-no tweaking required.

Pro tip: Give and get the most with any position that makes it easy to reach each other’s erogenous zones for simultaneous manual or sex toy play.

Bigger base with narrow head

This penis is thicker at the base and narrows as you get closer to the head, giving it a cone-esque shape.

Like other shapes, this one’s got some solid perks. The narrower head makes for easier entry, and a wider base provides more stimulation the deeper you go.

Pro tip: If you’re both open to anal, the cone is basically built for butt play because the gradual increase in girth is perfect for stretching the anus. Use a lot of lube and tease with just the tip before going deeper.

Narrow base with larger head

The hammer penis, which is long and thin with a much larger head, has all the makings for a good nailing. Wink.

The extra girth at the tip stimulates the vaginal or rectal walls, which will feel good for both of you.

Pro tip: Choose positions that allow the receiver to open wide and stimulate their clit or penis at the same time for easier entry. Classics like missionary and cow are totally hammer-friendly.

Where do length and girth come in?

Penises don’t just come in different shapes, but lengths and thicknesses, too.

Regardless of the combo you’re working with, the right moves can make them all O-inducing.

Smaller-than-average length and girth

The “gherkin” falls on the shorter and narrower side of average, but don’t let its smaller stature fool you. It doesn’t need to be big to be ahh-mazing.

Pro tip: If you wanna go deep, some positions are better than others. Doggy style is one of the best for any type of sex with a smaller-than-average penis. If you’re flexible, the pile driver is fan-freaking-tastic.

Shorter-than-average length and thick girth

The “kielbasa” is shorter, stout, and able to stimulate the vaginal or rectal walls like nobody’s business.

There are oodles of sensitive nerve-endings packed in and around either entry point, so the shorter length makes for some pretty toe-curling penetration for both parties.

Pro tip: Use lots of lube, take it slow, and master the dog positions, like traditional doggy or downward-facing dog (yes, like the yoga pose), if you want to go deep and hit the G-, A-, or P-spot.

Average length and girth

Congrats, Goldicocks! The “cucumber” isn’t too big or too small, but just right for any position you want to try.

Pro tip: Experiment to find your most mind-blowing positions! Try variations on all the classics and throw some standing sex positions into the mix.

Larger-than-average length and girth

The “salami” is the type of appendage you’re most likely to see in porn: long and thick.

While it may leave some jumping for joy, it can also be a little daunting to take in — literally.

The key to making the most of it is lots of lube and positions that let the receiver have more control.

Pro tip: Lube up and try positions that allow the partner on the receiving end to keep their legs tight to control the depth. You can do this with missionary, spooning, and even rear-entry positions.

Larger-than-average length and thin girth

To be clear, the “pencil” type isn’t actually pencil-thin, but it’s notably longer and narrower than average.

To make the best use of a thin penis, stick to tight-legged positions. The tighter space is pleasurable for both and still lets the receiver control how much of the length they take in.

Pro tip: You’ve gotta try spooning. Coming in from behind creates a tight space and requires extra length — which this type’s got — to reach. Spooning also works for anal and can be ramped up by adding a dildo for some DP action. You’re welcome.

How does skin tone affect the color?

Regardless of race, a penis can be considerably different from the rest of the person it’s attached to. The same goes for vulvas and nipples.

This is because our sex hormones regulate melanocyte cells. These are skin cells that release melanin, which is responsible for pigmentation.

Rising testosterone levels throughout life leads to darker skin down there. The color can appear brown or grayish.

And during erection, blood flow can make it reddish or even purple.

It’s all totally normal and has zero impact on function.

Hair, foreskin, and more

Adding to their charm and character are other traits like hair, foreskin, and veins.

Let’s take a closer look at some of these attributes and how to handle them.

Circumcised

Circumcised penises — which make up around 70 percent of penises in the United States — have had the foreskin removed. This means the head is on display at all times, and there’s no need to pull back skin to access it.

Pro tip: Foreskin doesn’t make any difference in regard to your partner’s pleasure, but using lube could minimize chafing for you during a long or particularly snuggly sesh.

Uncircumcised

An uncircumcised penis has the foreskin intact. Only part of the head is visible unless it’s erect and, even then, it depends on how much skin there is.

Pro tip: Foreskin works like a sleeve o’ pleasure when enjoying solo or partnered hand action. Alternate between sliding it back and forth over the head and gently pulling it back and exposing the head for some targeted attention.

Hairy

Hair around the base of the penis and balls is pretty much a given unless it’s shaved off. You may even notice a few stragglers on the shaft. It’s all good!

Pro tip: If you’re going au naturel, be sure to keep things clean and fresh. If you or your partner prefers a trim or hairless nether region, take care to avoid painful mishaps.

Smooth

With not a vein or bump in sight, a smooth penis makes for a silky smooth entry.

Pro tip: Want more? Mix things up with textured condoms or a cock ring for a totally different sensation.

Veiny

Some cocks have uber-accentuated veins, especially when they’re aroused.

A veiny penis comes down to genetics and muscle and is totally not a big deal.

Pro tip: Too much? Look to thicker or differently textured condoms to help prevent overstimulation.

Freckled

Freckles come down to pigmentation that can be more pronounced in some areas than others. It’s purely aesthetic.

Pro tip: Freckles on any skin is totally normal, but if you or your partner is worried about the spotted appearance, hit pause and talk to a doctor or other healthcare provider before taking things further.

Shower

A shower refers to a penis that stays pretty much the same size whether it’s erect or not.

Experts don’t know why it happens, but it appears to be relatively common according to the research available.

Pro tip: Proceed as usual!

Grower

Most penises are growers, which mean they get bigger when they’re hard.

Pro tip: Nothing more to do except get busy!

The bottom line

No one type is better than another, so try to focus on the pleasure it’s capable of instead of its appearance.

That said, keeping an eye out for any new or unusual changes in appearance is important.

See a doctor or other healthcare provider if you or your partners notice any new lumps or areas of discoloration. These could be a sign of an STI, injury, or other underlying a condition.

Zapping the penis with sound waves could tackle erectile dysfunction ‘by stimulating the growth of nerve fibres and blood vessels’

Zapping the penis with sound waves could tackle erectile dysfunction ‘by stimulating the growth of nerve fibres and blood vessels’

  • Scientists tested low-intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy 
  • It delivers up to 2,400 pulses of sound to the shaft of the penis over 20 minutes
  • It worked significantly better than a standard erectile dysfunction pill alone 
  • Italian researchers said the pulses boost growth hormones to heal damage 

By Vanessa Chalmers Health Reporter For Mailonline

This article is a repost which originally appeared on DailyMail

Zapping the penis with sound waves could tackle erectile dysfunction, a study suggests.

Scientists tested the relatively new treatment alongside a standard pill on a group of men struggling with impotence.

They found six sessions of up to 2,400 pulses of acoustic energy to the penis gave significantly better results than the pill alone.

It is believed to work by stimulating the growth of new nerve fibres and blood vessels, restoring penis function.

The intense vibrations to the shaft during the 20-minute sessions are not painful, according to the researchers.
Shockwaves fired through the penis could be used to treat erectile dysfunction

Shockwaves fired through the penis could be used to treat erectile dysfunction

Paolo Verze, of University of Naples Federico II, Italy, said low-intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy (LiESWT) is a ‘promising’ therapy for erectile dysfunction (ED).

The 156 study participants all had type 2 diabetes, as ED is a common problem often with more severity among those with diabetes.

It can stem from damage to nerves and blood vessels caused by poor long-term blood sugar control.

In the study, patients took a daily pill of tadalafil, branded Cialis, a standard treatment for ED, for 12 weeks.

However, half of them also had LiESWT twice a week for three weeks at the beginning of the study.

The severity of participants’ erectile dysfunction was measured using the 5-Item International Index of Erectile Function test.

WHAT IS ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION?

Erectile dysfunction, also known as impotence, is when a man is unable to get or maintain an erection.

It is more common in the over-40s but affects men of all ages.

Erectile dysfunction affects half of men aged between 40 and 70 years old, according to the British Association of Urological Surgeons.

A psychological component, often called ‘performance anxiety’ is common in men with impotence. However, a purely psychological problem is seen in only 10 per cent.

It can be a sign of an underlying medical condition such as high blood pressure or cholesterol, side effects of medication, or hormonal issues.

Of the 90 per cent of men who have an underlying physical cause, the main abnormalities found are cardiovascular disease (40 per cent), diabetes (33 per cent) and hormone problems and drugs (11 per cent).

Failure to stay erect is usually due to tiredness, stress, anxiety or alcohol, and is not a cause for concern.

Treatment usually involves lifestyle modification first, as obesity, smoking, cycling too much, drinking too much, and stress can trigger ED.

Medication with a phosphodiesterase inhibitor such as sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil (Levitra) or avanafil (Spedra) is the second choices.

Scores of 25–22 indicate no erectile dysfunction while five to seven indicate severe erectile dysfunction.

At the beginning, the men aged 57 on average, had an erectile dysfunction score of 15.5. Their score was measured four weeks, 12 weeks and 24 weeks after the study.

The scores improved significantly in both groups at four weeks, by 2.9 in the tadalafil only group, and 3.9 in the LiESWT group.

At 12 weeks, scores had improved by 3.3 in the tadalafil only group, and 4.3 in the LiESWT group.

By 24 weeks, the differences were more evident. Those who had the LiESWT had seen their erectile dysfunction improved by 3.8 compared to the 1.8 who did not have it.

A second study investigated what number of shockwaves were most effective – 1,500, 1,800 or 2,400 pulses per session.

Those who had the most intense shockwave therapy of 2,400 saw their erectile dysfunction improve the most, by 4.7 points.

Overall, the combined approach of tadalafil and LiESWT at 2,400 pulses gave ‘significant advantage’ compared to those who only had tadalafil, the researchers said.

Writing in the Asian Journal of Andrology, the authors shockwave therapy is believed to stimulate pathways that encourage growth factors.

A growth factor is a natural substance in the body which helps with healing and cell growth.

This, Dr Verze and colleagues said, may regenerate nerve fibres and blood vessels in the penis, improving blood flow.

‘Consequently, LiESWT has the potential to restore natural erections and cure the disease,’ they claim.

The study was welcomed by sexual health expert Dr Diana Gall, from online ­service Doctor 4 U.

She told The Sun: ‘Drugs such as tadalafil have long been used to treat erectile problems.

‘But shockwave therapy is an emerging weapon in the sexual health armoury and this new study offers some encouraging results.

‘When combined with erection medication, it could now offer real hope for those who suffer erectile dysfunction, particularly among the one in ten men over 40 in the UK who also have diabetes.’

Erectile dysfunction affects half of men aged between 40 and 70 years old, according to the British Association of Urological Surgeons.

Of the 90 per cent of men who have an underlying physical cause, rather than a mental struggle, a third have diabetes.