Struggling with Peyronie's disease
When it comes to men’s health, certain topics are tough to talk about – and Peyronie’s Disease is often one of them. Many of my male clients have concerns about the size or shape of their penis, and a handful of those are dealing with the more specific issue of Peyronie’s. It affects people in multiple ways: there’s the physical pain, the curved shape of the penis, and the impact on intimate relationships. A lot of men with this condition report stress, anxiety, and even depression. These feelings are totally understandable – living with a condition that affects such an intimate part of your life isn’t easy.
What to do if you're dealing with Peyronie's disease
The stigma around men’s health issues doesn’t help; there aren’t as many open discussions about Peyronie’s, which can make it seem like there are limited options for relief. Without proper attention, the scar tissue that causes Peyronie’s can harden, and over time, the curvature can become more pronounced. This can lead to more severe symptoms, causing a cycle of stress and pain that’s hard to break.
Thankfully, there are natural approaches that can help. While medical treatments exist (and you should always consult your medical practitioner for advice), adding mindful self-massage or partner massage to your routine can support healing and help reduce the impact of Peyronie’s Disease on your life. In this article we’ll look at how these massage practices can make a difference, and dive into the simple techniques you can use.
What is Peyronie's disease?
Peyronie’s Disease is a condition where scar tissue (or plaque) forms in the fascial tissue that wraps around the shaft of the penis (the tunica albuginea). This scarring makes the fascial tissue less elastic, which leads to a curvature in the penis that can cause pain, difficulty with erections, and emotional stress. It’s thought to affect anywhere from 1 in 10 to 1 in 200 men, though it’s often underreported due to the stigma and discomfort around discussing the symptoms. If you or your partner are dealing with this, rest assured that you’re not alone, and there are supportive strategies available to help manage the condition.
What causes Peyronie's disease?
The exact cause of Peyronie’s disease is not fully understood, but several factors, including genetics, injury, and lifestyle, are thought to play a role.
Trauma and injury
A leading theory is that repeated microtrauma or an acute injury – often from sexual activity – may trigger the scarring response in the penis. Injuries that don’t heal correctly or that repeatedly impact the area can lead to plaque formation. Some sources also link Peyronie’s to activities like bending the penis during intercourse when it’s not fully erect, which can increase the risk of these minor injuries over time.
Genetics
There is evidence to suggest that genetics may increase the risk of developing Peyronie’s disease. Some individuals with Peyronie’s also have other connective tissue disorders, such as Dupuytren’s contracture, which affects the hands. While a definitive genetic cause has not been established, a family history of similar connective tissue issues can indicate a higher likelihood of developing Peyronie’s.
Inflammation & lifestyle factors
Chronic inflammation from conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular disease may also influence the risk of developing Peyronie’s. Studies have found that the vascular health of the penis plays a significant role in the development of scar tissue, as damaged blood vessels and reduced blood flow to the tissue are more likely to encourage scar formation. Smoking and excessive alcohol use are also thought to exacerbate systemic inflammation, further increasing risk.
Age
Peyronie’s disease is more commonly diagnosed in older men. This is partly because, with age, there is often a decrease in the flexibility and elasticity of connective tissue, and erectile function can become less robust. This combination makes injuries more likely and healing less effective, setting the stage for conditions like Peyronie’s to develop.
Autoimmune & hormonal factors
There is limited but growing interest in how immune system dysregulation and low testosterone levels might affect Peyronie’s disease. For some, an immune response could contribute to the abnormal scarring process seen in Peyronie’s. Additionally, lower levels of testosterone may reduce the natural anti-inflammatory effect in tissues, making it easier for inflammation to result in scar tissue.
The power of touch: why massage helps
Research into self-massage for Peyronie’s disease (PD) is still emerging, though stretching exercises and specific manual techniques, have shown promise as complementary therapies. Typically, medical professionals recommend methods like penile traction therapy (PTT) and gentle stretching exercises to potentially reduce the curvature and pain associated with PD.
When you’re trying to reduce the symptoms of Peyronie’s Disease, massage can be really helpful in a few key ways. Massage increases blood flow to the area, which may help break down some of the scar tissue that causes the curvature. When done mindfully, it can also bring relaxation to the muscles of the pelvis and abdomen, and reduce pain. Partner massage is also a way to create connection and intimacy, without the pressure of penetrative sex, which can ease the emotional impact of Peyronie’s Disease.
Is it safe to use massage techniques to address Peyronie's disease?
While there’s no formal scientific consensus on self-massage alone, these gentle, consistent techniques are fairly low risk and might play a role in alleviating mild cases when combined with other treatments, such as traction devices or collagen injections, which are more established for directly addressing the plaque. However, because there are very few studies that provide credible evidence right now, it’s important to always consult your medical professional to get an individual diagnosis and treatment plan if you suspect you have Peyronie’s.
How to do self-massage for Peyronie's disease
Mindful self-massage involves using slow, gentle movements to relieve tension and improve blood flow. Here’s a simple, four-step approach to self-massage that can help:
1. Warm up
Before you begin, place a warm towel, or gentle heat pack, over your genitals for a few minutes. This helps relax the tissue and makes the massage more effective. It’s also nice to do your massage after a bath or shower.
2. Use oil & gentle pressure
Castor oil is extremely beneficial for softening scar tissue due to it’s high ricinoleic acid content; the fatty acids soften the skin, have anti-inflammatory properties and are thought to support lymphatic function. I recommend a blend of 50/50 castor oil and coconut or almond oil for the optimal viscosity. Using oil will reduce the friction on the skin and lead to more relaxation.
3. Use these 3 simple techniques
Focus on moving slowly, using gentle pressure, which helps promote blood flow without causing irritation. For videos of these techniques that you can follow along with at home, you can sign up for my online course in mindful masturbation.
Moving from root to tip
Position your hand so the thumb is closest to your body (not your little finger). Gently slide, squeeze and stretch from the base of the shaft out towards the tip. Repeat with the other hand.
20-30 slow repetitions.
Thumb circles along the length
Hold your cock as if you’re holding a Nintendo controller (finger pads underneath, thumbs on top). Make small circular movements with your thumbs as you move from the base to the tip.
10-15 repetitions.
Gentle stretches in all directions
Using the hand position from the first technique, gently stretch the shaft of your penis up towards your belly button, to your left and right thigh and down towards your toes. Slide the hand along the length of the shaft as you stretch.
10-15 repetitions in all directions.
4. Be consistent & mindful
Practice this routine a few times per week, aiming to spend around 5–10 minutes on it each time. As you massage, try to stay focused on the sensations, breathe deeply, and relax. This mindfulness can help ease anxiety and build a connection with your genitals that isn’t centred on arousal or performance.
Partner massage for Peyronie's disease
Receiving massage from your partner can be just as effective and comes with the added benefits of intimate time spent together, and the fact that it’s easier to completely relax when someone else is doing all the ‘work’ 🙂 Including your partner in the process of addressing your Peyronie’s symptoms can deepen the sense of connection in your relationship, and help you to navigate the impact it has on you both. If you’re not currently in a relationship, booking regular appointments with a credible bodyworker is a fantastic solution and contributes to your self-care routine. Here’s a simple way to start:
1. Set the scene
Creating a warm, comfortable environment can make both of you feel more at ease. Dim the lights, play some calming music, and have your massage oil ready. It’s also helpful to set an intention at the start: to be clear that this isn’t necessarily a ‘sexual’ experience and there is no pressure to perform or be a certain way.
2. Communicate
Let your partner know how much pressure is comfortable and where to focus. For more tips on communication during massage, check out my online course in intimate massage.
3. Focus on overall relaxation
Starting with some gentle back or shoulder massage, and then some relaxing touch through the belly and inner thighs sets your nervous system up for deeper relaxation once you get to more intimate touch.
4. Use these 3 simple techniques
Apply warm oil to your hands before beginning and ensure you add more as you go through.
Slow slides over the pubic bone
Slide the palm of the hand from one hip bone down to the pubic bone and onto the shaft of the penis, keep repeating this movement (alternative your hands), starting from different points between the hip bones on the lower belly.
Massaging the perineum
Using the palm of the hand, cup underneath the balls onto the perineum (the space between the balls and the anus). Slide the hands up towards the balls then out towards the hip bone. Repeat with the other hand.
Moving from root to tip
Starting at the base of the penis, grip the shaft in your hand and gently slide/stretch away towards the tip. Repeat with the other hand. Stretch the shaft in different directions as you repeat – up towards the ceiling, to the left/right thigh, down towards the floor etc.
Additional tips for massage success
- Consistency is key: Just like any other aspect of your wellness routine, consistency matters. Even if you’re only able to practice self-massage or partner massage once a week, it can make a significant difference over time.
- Mindfulness over perfection: Remember, there’s no ‘right’ way to do this. Stay focused on relaxation and gentle, mindful movements, and be patient with yourself and the process. Tune in to your body and let go of any goals or expectations.
- Consider professional help: If massage isn’t bringing enough relief, contact your healthcare provider to discuss physical therapy or even specialised treatment options tailored for Peyronie’s.
Taking charge of your body, pleasure and wellness
Peyronie’s Disease doesn’t have to define you or your relationship. By integrating mindful self-massage and partner massage into your routine, you’re taking active steps toward relief and recovery. While your progress may be gradual, these small, mindful actions can make a significant difference. So why not give it a try? The road to recovery may be smoother – and more enjoyable – than you think.
With Love,
Libby
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