Should A Man Worry About A Veiny Penis? - ISSM

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1. Sexual Health Q&A

Should a man worry about a veiny penis?

Reviewed by the medical professionals of the ISSM’s Communication Committee

Q&A Rachel Baxter 28 October 2019

Having a veiny penis usually isn’t a cause for concern, but men should always contact their doctor if they are experiencing pain, swelling, or other alarming symptoms.

Blood vessels are an integral part of penile anatomy. When a man has an erection, his arteries expand to allow more blood to flow and then be trapped into the penis. The trapped blood makes the penis firm, giving him the rigidity he needs for intercourse.

After a man ejaculates (or if sexual stimulation stops), veins carry the blood out of the penis, which then returns to a flaccid (not erect) state.

Vein size and visibility is different for each man. Some men just have more noticeable veins than others.

Sometimes, veins in the penis are more visible just after sexual activity because they are carrying out the trapped blood at this time.

However, some health conditions can make veins more visible.

Blood Clots

Blood clots – clumps of blood cells that form inside blood vessels – can restrict or block blood flow. They might develop when a man injures his penis or if he hasn’t had sex for a long period of time. They might also result from penile tumors.

Lymphedema

If a man has problems with his lymph system, he might develop genital lymphedema – a swelling in his penis and/or scrotum. Lymphedema occurs when an excess of lymph (fluid that carries white blood cells around the body) leaks into surrounding tissue.

Men are encouraged to see their doctor if they notice anything unusual about their penis, including swelling, lumps, or changes in color. Any type of pain in the genitals, lower abdomen, or back should also be addressed by a healthcare professional.

Resources

• Cleveland Clinic - “Is Your Penis Normal?”(September 3, 2019)https://health.clevelandclinic.org/is-your-penis-normal/
• “Genital Lymphedema”(Last reviewed: April 20, 2016)https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15994-genital-lymphedema
• Healthline.com - “Is a Veiny Penis Cause for Concern?” Jewell, Tim(March 20, 2018)https://www.healthline.com/health/mens-health/veiny-penis
• Medical News Today - “Is it normal to have a veiny penis?”Eske, Jamie(August 13, 2019)https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326037.php

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