Bad news, men… ‘Winterpenis’ is real, say doctors

Less fortunate men often blamed the cold for the unfortunate size of their manhood.

But maybe that’s not an excuse after all.

Because doctors say there is the “winter penis” – as it is also called.

And the shrinkage is all down to the body’s natural response to the cold weather that has hit the UK this week, dropping temperatures to -6C.

However, experts emphasize that this is temporary and does not cause permanent damage.

Oliver Kayes, consultant urological surgeon and honorary doctorate from the University of Leeds, said the “winter penis” is ultimately neither a condition nor a disease.

Instead, he added, it’s just a “normal physiological response to the cold.”

When the mercury drops, the body tries to maintain its internal core temperature and protect internal organs.

It does this by deliberately constricting the blood vessels that carry blood to the skin to prevent cooler blood from flowing back into the body, where it can lower temperatures around vital organs.

But the result of vasoconstriction, as it is medically called, can be that tissue – especially in the limbs – shrinks.

And the penis and testicles are no exception to the reaction.

While the effects on penis size are controversial, sexual health experts have previously claimed that length can shrink by as much as 50 percent.

Mr Kayes told MailOnline that “colder temperatures reduce blood flow to extremities such as the toes, nose and penis”.

He said this explains “why they are more likely to freeze in extreme weather conditions.”

“In general, when a man decides to stand naked in sub-zero temperatures, the natural response is for the area to constrict vasoconstrictively and tighten the dartos muscle (scrotum), which tightens the penis and testicles for general protection. ” , he said. added.

“It’s a natural reflex. Apparently, if he manages to get an erection or sits in a hot bath for five minutes, the effects reverse.”

Experts have previously warned that reduced blood flow to the genitals caused by a “winter penis” can cause friction with underwear and lead to physical discomfort.

“In my practice, I have seen many problems that affect the blood supply to the penis,” said Mr. Kayes said.

A slight or moderate reduction leads to shrinkage and erectile problems, which are common in men with cardiovascular disease.

“Severe blood flow problems following trauma, infection, vasculitis, severe cold and sometimes illegal drug injection have led to ischemia, gangrene and autoamputation, or tissue loss,” he added.

“The so-called ‘winter penis’ is far from these major life-changing issues that can affect some men.”

To counter the reaction, Mr. Kayes three pieces of advice: “Stay warm, stay active and have sex and don’t worry.”