The anatomy of the penis consists of a cylindrical structure of variable size and thickness, covered by erectile tissue. It allows the member to have sexual and excretory functions. Learn more.
The male reproductive organ goes far beyond its size. It allows urine to leave the body, transports sperm during ejaculation, and is also a source of sexual pleasure.
All this is possible thanks to the penis anatomy, which, both externally and internally, has structures that work together for its perfect functioning.
Before knowing more details about it, it is important to remember that the penis is just one of the organs of the reproductive system, which also includes testicles, epididymis, vas deferens, and prostate.
External part of the penis
The anatomy of the penis includes the external part, which is the one we can see. They are used for urination, reproduction, and sexual pleasure, each with its own characteristics and specific functions:
Penile glans
The penile glans (also called the head of the penis) is the rounded and most sensitive end of the penis, due to a series of nerve endings that cover it. Its shape facilitates penetration during sexual intercourse, especially when well lubricated.
The glans is covered by the foreskin, a skin that protects it.
Is foreskin removal mandatory?
The removal of the foreskin – the circumcision surgery – is not necessary for all men.
The procedure is indicated for those who have difficulty retracting the foreskin to expose and properly clean the glans, as this increases the accumulation of bacteria. It can be done at any age, but in most cases, it is performed in childhood.
Circumcision can also be performed for religious or cultural reasons, usually early in life.
Penis shaft
The body of the penis or penile shaft is the cylindrical part between the glans and the root. Its exterior is covered by skin.
In erect state, the body of the penis becomes rigid, allowing penetration at the crucial moment.
Penis root
The root or base of the penis is the part that connects it to the body, along with the abdominal muscles and pelvic bones, which help provide stability to the penile shaft during an erection.
Internal part
Protected by the external part, internally, the penis is composed of structures that function in urination, erection, and reproduction, ensuring the proper functioning of the member:
Urethra
The urethra is the canal that runs from the bladder to the tip of the penis, carrying urine out of the body. At the same time, it serves as a passage for semen during ejaculation.
The urethra is surrounded by corpora cavernosa, which ensure its protection.
Corpora cavernosa
The corpora cavernosa are a kind of sponge that make up the erectile tissue of the penis. During arousal, they fill with blood, causing an erection.
Around the corpora cavernosa is the tunica albuginea. It is a resistant membrane that gives rigidity and firmness to the penis and can be affected by penile fibroses.
Penile vascularization
Penile vascularization is ensured by the dorsal and cavernous arteries, which bring oxygen-rich blood to the penis.
How does an erection happen?
An erection is a complex process that occurs when the penile anatomy is in full functioning, as it involves not only the nervous system but also the blood vessels and penile tissues.
For an erection to occur, the man must be aroused (i.e., sexually stimulated) so that the brain sends nerve signals to the penis, starting the smooth muscles of the blood vessel walls, allowing more blood to flow into the corpora cavernosa. The veins then retain the blood.
Thus, the penis becomes erect and warm.
How does ejaculation happen?
Ejaculation is a reflex of the central nervous system.
For it to occur, the smooth muscles of the vas deferens, seminal vesicles, and prostate contract, pushing the semen into the urethra.
Next, contractions of the muscles around the base of the penis expel the semen from the urethra out of the body through the urethra, usually accompanied by orgasm – an intense sensation of pleasure.
Types of penile curvature
A normal penis anatomy is one that has all the external structures as described. However, there may be some type of impairment, either congenital or acquired over a lifetime.
The main example is penile curvature. Although the anatomy of the penis naturally includes a certain degree of curvature, it is mild and does not interfere with the man’s sexual life. However, in some cases, the penis may curve upwards, downwards, or to either side.
When a man is born with a significant curvature, which is usually noticed at puberty, the condition is called juvenile curvature or congenital curvature. If the penis starts to curve later, usually after age 40, it is a case of Peyronie’s disease.
When is penile curvature considered a problem?
Treatments for penile curvatures are recommended for curvatures that hinder or prevent penetration or movements during sex, as they impair the man’s sexual life, thus reducing his quality of life.
Men with pronounced curvatures who have satisfying relationships should monitor the condition for progression. On the other hand, the man’s mental health may be compromised, which can also be treated.
Additionally, curvature is usually accompanied by other symptoms, such as loss of penis size, thinning and erectile dysfunction, situations that will require medical care.
Is it possible to enlarge the penis?
Despite concerns about penis size, most men have penile dimensions compatible with the average and do not need penile enlargement.
A procedure to enlarge the penis is only indicated in rare cases, such as in patients born with micropenis.
In cases of Peyronie’s disease, it is possible to partially or fully recover the penis size before being affected by penile fibroses with surgery, but only for patients who did not respond to clinical treatment.
The anatomy of the penis seems simple, but it is quite an elaborate organ, both inside and outside. Its good performance ensures that many vital functions are performed for the man to be healthy and have a good quality of life.
Therefore, it is important to know how to take care of it. Dr. Paulo Egydio has a WhatsApp channel with tips for you to do this and avoid problems with this important part of your body and sexual life.
