What is Peyronie’s disease?

Peyronie’s disease is a condition where scar tissue develops inside the penis. This can cause the penis to bend or curve during an erection. Some men also notice discomfort or changes in shape.

This condition is not cancer, but it can affect both physical and emotional well-being. The exact cause isn’t always clear. In some cases, it may follow a minor injury to the penis. Other times, it develops gradually.

Risk factors may include:

• Family history of the condition
• Connective tissue disorders
• Diabetes
• Smoking

Symptoms

Peyronie’s disease can look different from person to person, but it often affects how erections feel and appear.

Common symptoms include:

• A noticeable bend or curve in the penis
• Pain during erections, especially early on
• Shortening or narrowing of the penis
• Difficulty with sexual activity
• Emotional stress or reduced confidence

How is it diagnosed?

Your provider will start by asking about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam is often enough to detect the scar tissue.

In some cases, additional testing may be helpful. An ultrasound can show the location of the plaque and evaluate blood flow. Your provider may also assess how the penis looks during an erection to understand the curvature better.

How is it treated?

Treatment depends on how severe your symptoms are and how much they affect your daily life.

Many mild cases improve over time without medical treatment. When care is needed, options may include:

• Monitoring the condition as it stabilizes
• Medications or supplements (though results can vary)
• Injections directly into the scar tissue
• Devices that gently stretch the penis in select cases

For more advanced symptoms, surgery may be recommended to correct the curvature. In certain situations, a penile implant may help restore function.

Your care team will work with you to choose the option that best fits your needs and goals.