Does Peyronie's Disease Cause ED?

Published: 2025-11-04

Updated: 2025-11-05

3 mins

Peyronie’s disease is a condition that affects the shape, structure, and function of the penis. It can cause discomfort, emotional distress, and in many cases, make sexual activity more difficult or even painful. While it’s often discussed as a rare or unusual condition, Peyronie’s disease is actually more common than most men realize – and it can have a significant impact on both physical and sexual health.

What is Peyronie’s Disease?

Peyronie’s disease occurs when fibrous scar tissue – known as plaque – develops under the skin of the penis. These plaques can cause the penis to bend or curve during an erection. In mild cases, the curvature may be subtle and cause little to no discomfort. In more severe cases, it can be painful and make intercourse difficult or impossible.

Unlike the smooth, flexible tissue of a healthy penis, scar tissue doesn’t stretch well. When blood flows into the penis during an erection, the area with the plaque can’t expand the same way as the surrounding tissue, leading to visible curvature or deformity.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of Peyronie’s disease isn’t always clear, but it’s often linked to minor injuries to the penis. These injuries are those that could have occurred during sexual activity, athletic activity, or even accidental trauma. The body’s healing response to these injuries may produce excess scar tissue in some men.

A number of factors can increase the likelihood of developing Peyronie’s disease, including:

• Age: The condition becomes more common as men get older, particularly after age 50.

• Genetics: Men with a family history of Peyronie’s disease or certain connective tissue disorders (like Dupuytren’s contracture) are at higher risk.

• Health conditions: Diabetes, hypertension, and other vascular diseases can contribute to the formation of fibrous tissue and poor wound healing.

• Erectile dysfunction: Men who already struggle with ED may experience penile microtrauma during attempts at intercourse, potentially contributing to scar formation.

In some cases, Peyronie’s disease may appear without any identifiable injury or underlying condition, suggesting that genetic or inflammatory factors may also play a role.

Is There a Link Between Peyronie’s Disease and Erectile Dysfunction?

Peyronie’s disease and erectile dysfunction often go hand in hand, and their relationship is complex. The scar tissue that causes penile curvature can restrict blood flow or prevent proper rigidity during an erection. Additionally, pain or anxiety related to the deformity can further interfere with arousal and performance.

In some men, erectile dysfunction develops first. Incomplete erections can make the penis more vulnerable to injury during sexual activity, which may eventually trigger Peyronie’s disease. In other cases, Peyronie’s disease occurs first. The resulting deformity or pain can then lead to secondary erectile difficulties.

The emotional impact can also be significant. Men with Peyronie’s disease frequently report anxiety, low self-esteem, and reduced sexual confidence, all of which can contribute to performance-related ED.

Diagnosis and Treatment

A healthcare provider can typically diagnose Peyronie’s disease through a physical examination. In some cases, an ultrasound is used to identify the extent of scar tissue or calcification.

Treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms and how much the condition interferes with sexual function. Options include:

• Oral medications or injections: Certain prescription treatments can help reduce plaque formation or improve curvature.

• Traction therapy: Gentle stretching devices can sometimes help improve shape and length over time.

• Surgery: In severe cases, surgical correction may be recommended to restore normal shape and function.

If ED is also present, medications like PDE5 inhibitors (such as sildenafil) or other erectile aids may be part of the treatment plan.

How Can Rex MD Help?

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