Medical professionals have issued a cautionary note about ‘summer penis’ and identified those who may be at a higher risk.
While ‘winter penis’ may be more familiar, the warmer months can also pose challenges. It’s not just frigid temperatures that can affect intimacy; heat plays a role too.
The issue is tied to temperature fluctuations. According to doctors, some men may experience up to a 50 percent reduction in length when exposed to temperatures below 60°F.
In contrast, the summer heat can make the penis appear slightly larger or fuller, which might seem advantageous at first glance.
However, a doctor has outlined three primary reasons why men may encounter issues with sexual performance during the summer.
Experts point out that ‘summer penis’ is simply a biological response to heat, as blood vessels naturally expand to help regulate body temperature.
While temperatures soar, this can lead to less energetic experiences in the bedroom.
Dr. Donald Grant, a GP and senior clinical advisor at The Independent Pharmacy, informed The Daily Mail that warm weather can lead to ‘many health conditions’ and ‘worsen symptoms’ such as erectile dysfunction (ED).
Dr. Grant explained: “Dehydration is a significant factor in how warmer weather affects ED symptoms.
“When dehydrated, the body reduces blood volume, complicating the ability for men with penile issues to achieve and sustain an erection.”
Fatigue and exhaustion are other factors, exacerbated not only by restless nights due to the heat but also from a biological standpoint.
“Warmer weather makes our bodies exert more effort to maintain a safe internal temperature, often leading to fatigue,” he added.
“Insufficient sleep directly affects hormone production, reducing testosterone levels and worsening ED symptoms, making erections more challenging to achieve.”
Many people might opt for a cold alcoholic drink to cool down, but this choice can negatively impact genital health.
Dr. Grant noted: “Alcohol can severely aggravate ED symptoms by lowering blood pressure and disrupting blood flow to the genital area.
“Chronic, excessive alcohol use can damage nerves and blood vessels, further affecting men with this condition.”
Additionally, Dr. Bhavini Shah, a GP at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor, noted that stress significantly contributes to ED.
“Chronic stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues can complicate maintaining an erection,” she stated.
“When stressed or anxious, hormones are released that affect the blood vessels crucial for erections.
“Stress and anxiety may also diminish sexual interest and focus. Additionally, these feelings can lead to unhealthy habits like smoking or drinking, further exacerbating ED.”