Doctor explains key lifestyle choices that can cause your penis to shrink

It's safe to say that many blokes will worry about their penises shrinking over time - and it turns out that this is very much a possibility thanks to certain lifestyle choices and events.

Penis shrinkage is often gradual and is associated with aging, so it's a completely normal part of the human anatomy.

The average erect penis length is around 5.16 inches, while the average flaccid length is closer to 3.61 inches, so it doesn't really matter if you're a 'grower' or a 'shower' because, in most cases, the shrinkage change is around half an inch to an inch.

And having a slightly smaller penis isn't likely to affect your sex life, but several factors could make your sausage shrink faster than normal.

Let's get into it.

45 to 55 percent of men report some level of dissatisfaction or concern with their penis size (Getty Stock Images)

Obesity

Weight gain, especially around the lower abdomen, can make the penis appear shorter.

A thick fat pad around the base can partially cover the shaft, creating the illusion of shrinkage.

"The number one reason why people think that their penis is shrinking when it's actually not, is because they've gained some weight," urologist and pelvic surgeon Rena Malik said on her YouTube channel.

"When urologists measure penis length, we measure it in the same way each and every time.

"Typically, the guidelines are to measure it in a flaccid state, at a stretched length, in a warm room."

Prostate surgery

Some men might notice temporary shortening after prostate cancer surgery (radical prostatectomy).

Research shows the average decrease may be around 1cm initially, though length often improves over time as erectile function returns.

Several factors could lead to penis shrinkage over time (Getty Stock Images)

"You may notice a shortening of the penile length, and that can range anywhere from half an inch to three quarters of an inch," Dr Malik adds.

A curving of the penis, known as Peyronie’s disease

This condition causes scar tissue to form inside the penis, leading to curvature. It can reduce both length and thickness and may make intercourse painful.

"You will notice it, because you'll see a noticeable lump on your penis, or see that it is bending or curving in a different way," says Malik.

How to help prevent or manage penis shrinkage

Dr Arkady Lipnitsky said on his channel that 'pelvic floor exercise', along with healthy lifestyle choices can help manage shrinkage.

"Make sure you maintain a healthy lifestyle. Eat healthy food, drink less alcohol, especially beer, because beer drops testosterone," he said.

Penis shrinkage is often gradual (Getty Stock Images)

"And of course, start exercising, besides the cardiovascular and strength training exercise, it's important to incorporate a pelvic floor exercise into your daily routine."

Basic Kegels

Contract your pelvic muscles and hold for 3–5 seconds, then relax for the same duration.

you can repeat this 10–15 times, three times a day.

Quick Pulses

Rapidly squeeze and release the muscles for 10 seconds.

Bridge Exercise

Lie on your back, bend your knees, and lift your hips while engaging the pelvic floor.

Hold for 10 seconds, then lower.