Doctor shares how to reduce symptoms of 'summer penis phenomenon'

You might not be familiar with the term, but you may have experienced the symptoms of the so-called 'summer penis phenomenon'.

While it's not an official medical diagnosis, the term is used to describe 'when a male's penis seems a bit bigger or fuller during the hot weather'.

This is caused by a process called vasodilation, where the body broadens blood vessels to increase blood flow to the skin to transfer the heat to outside the body, allowing the internal temperature to cool down.

Although the recent UK heatwaves seem to have taken a break for now, the temperatures have remained steadily warm in most places, so you may well still be experiencing symptoms, especially if you partake in any activities that result in increased body temperature, like running.

The 'summer penis phenomenon' is not a medical diagnosis (Getty Stock Image)

You may well be thinking this can only be a good thing, but the unfortunate truth is some people have reported feeling discomfort as a result of their increased manhood.

Another common question is whether summer penis will have any impact on sex, and the answer is, probably not. Sorry, fellas.

Although the penis may appear enlarged while flaccid, the chances are it'll have no impact when all the blood flushes to your privates when primed for sexual activity, unfortunately.

While there's absolutely no cause for concern, one doctor has highlighted some of the things you can do to maintain comfort levels if you do find yourself more endowed than usual.

How to reduce symptoms of 'summer penis'

Cotton boxers are the way to go (Getty Stock Image)

"It might be more uncomfortable if you wear tight underwear, especially if it’s synthetic as this can prevent airflow. I always recommend 100 percent cotton or modal boxers to my patients as this ensures there is plenty of airflow which reduces the amount of sweat that can otherwise get trapped in the groin area," Dr Nicholas Dragolea, founder of My Longevity Centre, told LADbible.

"Also avoid wearing tight jeans or skinny trousers in general to prevent them from compressing everything down there. Loose cotton or linen trousers and shorts are always a better choice."

Dr Dragolea went on to say the humidity can increase the risk of developing jock itch, which is often caused by a fungal infection.

"You can see the pharmacist for this to get an anti-fungal cream with Clotrimazole in the first instance. It should clear after about five days provided that you make a better effort at keeping the area dry and change underwear daily," he explained.

If problems persist, you should always reach out to your GP.