Sex is an essential and pleasurable part of life for many people, but sometimes it can leave behind an unexpected side effect: a sore penis. While occasional soreness after sexual activity is common and usually not a cause for concern, understanding the reasons behind it and when to seek medical advice is crucial for maintaining both physical and emotional well-being.

Sore Penis After Sex: Introduction

Overview of the Topic

A sore penis after sex can manifest in various ways, including redness, swelling, tenderness, or discomfort during or after urination. These symptoms can stem from harmless factors, such as friction, or signal underlying issues that require attention. Regardless of the cause, discussing this topic openly helps reduce stigma and promotes healthier attitudes toward sexual health.

Why It’s Important to Discuss Post-Sex Penile Discomfort

1. Awareness of Common Causes: Understanding why soreness occurs can help people address minor issues at home and identify signs of more serious conditions.
2. Promoting Preventive Practices: Education about proper hygiene, the use of lubricants, and suitable protective measures (e.g., condoms) can prevent many cases of post-sex soreness.
3. Encouraging Open Communication: Discomfort after sex can be a sensitive topic. Encouraging open dialogue between partners and with healthcare providers helps build trust and ensures proper care.
4. Reducing Anxiety: Many individuals experience unnecessary worry about soreness due to a lack of information or misconceptions. Knowledge reduces stress and empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their health.

Common Misconceptions About Soreness After Sex

• “Soreness means I have an STI.”
  While sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can cause discomfort, many cases of soreness are related to less severe issues, such as friction or minor injuries.
• “It’s normal for sex to hurt every time.”
  While occasional discomfort can happen, recurring pain isn’t normal and should be addressed with a healthcare professional.
• “Soreness will go away on its own.”
  Minor cases often resolve without intervention, but persistent or severe discomfort may require medical treatment.

Normal vs. Concerning Soreness

• Normal Soreness:
  • Mild redness or tenderness.
  • Slight swelling or irritation after vigorous or extended sexual activity.
  • Temporary discomfort that resolves within 24-48 hours.
• Concerning Soreness:
  • Pain lasting longer than 48 hours.
  • Presence of visible cuts, sores, or lesions.
  • Discharge, unusual odors, or itching (potential infection).
  • Difficulty urinating or persistent burning sensations.

By recognizing what’s normal and what might need attention, individuals can take proactive steps to address soreness after sex, ensuring a healthy and enjoyable sexual experience.

Common Causes of Soreness After Sex

A sore penis after sex can have various causes, ranging from mild and temporary issues to underlying medical conditions that require treatment. Understanding these causes can help identify whether the soreness is a simple matter of friction or a sign of a more significant problem.

Friction-Related Causes

Friction is one of the most common reasons for penile soreness after sex, particularly during intense or prolonged activity.

• Lack of Lubrication During Intercourse
  Insufficient natural or artificial lubrication can lead to increased friction, causing irritation, redness, and soreness. This is particularly common in longer sessions or when using condoms without adequate lubrication.
• Extended or Vigorous Sexual Activity
  Overexertion during sex, whether due to duration or intensity, can strain the delicate skin of the penis. This can result in microtears, soreness, and swelling.

Allergic Reactions

Certain substances used during sexual activity can trigger an allergic reaction, leading to penile discomfort.

• Sensitivity to Latex Condoms
  Latex allergies can cause redness, itching, and soreness after sex. In severe cases, blisters or hives may also develop. Non-latex alternatives, such as polyurethane or polyisoprene condoms, can help.
• Reaction to Lubricants or Spermicides
  Some individuals may react to ingredients in lubricants or spermicides, resulting in irritation or soreness. Opting for hypoallergenic products can reduce this risk.

Infections

Infections are another common cause of post-sex penile soreness. They can vary from fungal infections to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or urinary tract infections (UTIs).

• Fungal Infections (Yeast Infections)
  Though commonly associated with women, men can also develop yeast infections, leading to soreness, redness, and sometimes a white discharge under the foreskin.
• Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
  Conditions such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and herpes can cause significant discomfort. Symptoms often include pain during urination, unusual discharge, or sores and blisters.
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
  While less common in men than women, UTIs can cause pain, burning sensations, and soreness in the penis, particularly after sexual activity.

Trauma or Minor Injuries

Physical trauma during intercourse can lead to soreness, especially if there was insufficient lubrication or excessive pressure.

• Tears in the Frenulum
  The frenulum, a sensitive piece of tissue on the underside of the penis, can tear during vigorous sex, causing pain and bleeding. This is especially common in uncircumcised men.
• Bruising from Excessive Pressure
  Aggressive activity or using a tight grip during manual stimulation can bruise the penis, leading to soreness and swelling.

Underlying Health Conditions

Certain medical conditions can make the penis more susceptible to soreness after sex or cause discomfort on their own.

• Peyronie’s Disease
  This condition involves the development of scar tissue in the penis, leading to curvature during erections. It can cause pain and discomfort during or after sex.
• Phimosis (Tight Foreskin)
  In uncircumcised men, a tight foreskin that doesn’t retract easily can lead to soreness, especially after intercourse. This can sometimes cause microtears or irritation.
• Balanitis (Penile Inflammation)
  Inflammation of the penis, often involving the glans or foreskin, can result from poor hygiene, infections, or allergies. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and pain.

When to Seek Medical Advice

While many of these causes are temporary and resolve with home care, persistent or severe soreness may require medical evaluation. Signs to look out for include:

• Pain lasting more than 48 hours.
• Open sores, blisters, or unusual discharge.
• Difficulty urinating or persistent burning sensations.
• Visible deformities or swelling that doesn’t subside.

By identifying the specific cause of penile soreness, appropriate treatment or preventive measures can be implemented to ensure long-term sexual health.

Symptoms to Watch For: Sore Penis After Sex

Experiencing some degree of soreness after sex is not uncommon, but it’s essential to recognize when symptoms might indicate a more serious issue. Understanding the difference between normal soreness and warning signs helps you determine whether home care is sufficient or if medical attention is required.

Normal Soreness vs. Warning Signs

Normal Soreness:

• Mild Redness or Swelling:
  A slight redness or minor swelling is common after vigorous or prolonged sexual activity, especially if friction was a factor.
• Temporary Discomfort:
  Pain or tenderness that subsides within 24–48 hours without additional symptoms is usually nothing to worry about.

Warning Signs:

• Pain Lasting More Than 48 Hours:
  Discomfort that persists beyond two days could indicate an underlying issue, such as an infection or injury, that needs medical evaluation.
• Presence of Discharge, Sores, or Rash:
  These symptoms could be signs of a sexually transmitted infection (STI), yeast infection, or an allergic reaction to products used during sex.
• Difficulty Urinating:
  A burning sensation, frequent need to urinate, or inability to urinate comfortably can indicate a urinary tract infection (UTI) or other medical condition.
• Visible Lesions or Open Wounds:
  Tears, ulcers, or lesions on the penis are abnormal and may require treatment to prevent infection or further complications.
• Unusual Odors or Persistent Itching:
  These signs often accompany fungal infections or poor hygiene and may necessitate a medical diagnosis.

When to Seek Medical Attention

You should consult a healthcare provider if you experience any of the following:

1. Severe Pain or Swelling:
   Rapidly worsening symptoms could indicate trauma, an allergic reaction, or a more severe condition like balanitis.
2. Signs of Infection:
   Fever, chills, or systemic symptoms in addition to localized soreness are potential indicators of an infection requiring antibiotics or other treatment.
3. Unusual Discharge:
   Green, yellow, or foul-smelling discharge is often linked to STIs or severe infections.
4. Inability to Retract the Foreskin (Phimosis):
   If the foreskin becomes too tight to retract, this could lead to complications and requires medical attention.
5. Persistent Issues Despite Home Care:
   If soreness doesn’t improve with rest, hygiene, and hydration, professional evaluation is recommended.

Preventing Future Issues

While minor soreness is common and often manageable, recurring or severe symptoms can indicate preventable problems. Taking proactive steps—such as using proper lubrication, addressing allergies, and practicing good hygiene—can reduce the risk of post-sex soreness and improve overall sexual health.

Prevention Tips: Avoiding Soreness After Sex

Taking steps to prevent soreness after sex can make your sexual experiences more comfortable and enjoyable. Here’s a guide to effective prevention strategies, broken down into three phases: before, during, and after sex.

Before Sex

1. The Importance of Foreplay and Lubrication
   • Engaging in adequate foreplay helps ensure sufficient natural lubrication, reducing friction and the likelihood of soreness.
   • If natural lubrication is insufficient, use a high-quality, body-safe lubricant to minimize friction during sexual activity.
2. Choosing the Right Type of Condom and Lubricant
   • Condoms: Select condoms that fit comfortably and are made of materials compatible with your skin. Ensure they are properly lubricated to reduce friction.
   • Lubricants: Choose water-based or silicone-based lubricants, which are less likely to cause irritation compared to oil-based options. Hypoallergenic products are ideal for sensitive skin.
3. Managing Allergies to Materials
   • If you have a latex allergy, opt for latex-free condoms made of polyurethane or polyisoprene.
   • Test any new lubricants or products on a small patch of skin before use to check for allergic reactions.

During Sex

1. Avoiding Excessive Force or Prolonged Activity
   • Be mindful of the intensity and duration of sexual activity. Overexertion can lead to friction, strain, and soreness.
   • Take breaks as needed to ensure both partners remain comfortable and reduce the risk of irritation.
2. Recognizing Signs of Discomfort Early
   • Pay attention to your body and stop if you feel pain, excessive friction, or discomfort.
   • Communicate openly with your partner to adjust positions, speed, or pressure if needed.

After Sex

1. Proper Hygiene Practices
   • Clean your genital area gently with warm water after sex to remove any residue from lubricants, condoms, or bodily fluids. Avoid harsh soaps or scented products, which can irritate sensitive skin.
   • For uncircumcised men, retract the foreskin carefully to clean underneath and prevent infections.
2. Allowing Time for Recovery Between Sexual Activities
   • Give your body adequate time to recover before engaging in sexual activity again, especially if you experience any soreness or irritation.
   • Avoid tight clothing or activities that may cause further friction or strain during the recovery period.

Additional Tips for Long-Term Prevention

• Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration helps maintain healthy skin and natural lubrication.
• Maintain Regular Checkups: Routine medical exams can identify and address underlying conditions like infections or skin sensitivities that may contribute to post-sex soreness.
• Practice Safe Sex: Use protection to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that can cause discomfort and soreness.

By adopting these preventive measures, you can reduce the risk of experiencing soreness after sex and ensure a more comfortable and satisfying experience.

Home Remedies and First Aid for a Sore Penis After Sex

If you’re experiencing mild soreness after sex, several simple and effective home remedies can help alleviate discomfort and promote healing. These remedies focus on soothing irritation, reducing inflammation, and preventing further aggravation.

1. Cleaning and Soothing the Area with Warm Water

• How to Do It:
  Gently rinse the affected area with warm water to remove any lingering bodily fluids, lubricants, or condom residue.
  • Use only water or a mild, unscented soap to avoid irritation.
  • For uncircumcised men, retract the foreskin carefully and clean underneath to prevent bacterial buildup.
• Why It Helps:
  Cleaning the area reduces the risk of infections and soothes irritation caused by friction or minor abrasions.

2. Using Over-the-Counter Topical Creams

• What to Use:
  • Hydrocortisone Cream: Reduces minor inflammation and itching.
  • Antibacterial Ointments (e.g., Neosporin): Prevents infection if there are small cuts or abrasions.
  • Antifungal Creams: For symptoms resembling a yeast infection (e.g., redness, itchiness).
• How to Apply:
  • Wash your hands thoroughly before applying.
  • Use a small amount and gently apply it to the sore or irritated area.
  • Avoid using creams with strong fragrances or alcohol-based formulas.
• Precaution:
  If symptoms worsen or do not improve within 48 hours, consult a healthcare provider.

3. Applying a Cold Compress for Swelling

• How to Do It:
  • Wrap a clean cloth around a cold pack or a bag of ice.
  • Apply the compress to the affected area for 10–15 minutes at a time.
  • Repeat as needed, ensuring not to apply ice directly to the skin to avoid frostbite.
• Why It Helps:
  Cold compresses reduce swelling and numb the area, providing relief from pain and inflammation.

4. Avoiding Irritants

• What to Avoid:
  • Scented Soaps or Harsh Detergents: These can strip the skin of natural oils and worsen irritation.
  • Tight Clothing: Opt for loose-fitting, breathable fabrics (e.g., cotton underwear) to reduce friction.
  • Frequent Handling: Minimize touching or scratching the area, which can exacerbate soreness.
• Why It Helps:
  Avoiding irritants allows the skin to heal naturally and prevents additional discomfort or allergic reactions.

When to Seek Medical Advice

While these remedies can be effective for mild cases, consult a healthcare provider if:

• Pain persists for more than 48 hours.
• You notice unusual discharge, sores, or severe swelling.
• Symptoms worsen despite following these remedies.

By incorporating these home remedies and first-aid measures, you can quickly address minor soreness and promote recovery while ensuring long-term penile health.

Medical Treatments and Professional Care for Sore Penis After Sex

While many cases of penile soreness resolve with home care, persistent or severe symptoms may require medical attention. Professional care focuses on identifying the underlying cause and providing targeted treatments to ensure proper healing and prevent complications.

Diagnosing the Cause

1. Visiting a Healthcare Professional for a Thorough Checkup

• If soreness persists beyond 48 hours, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms (e.g., discharge, sores, difficulty urinating), consult a doctor.
• A physical examination of the genital area helps identify visible signs of infection, injury, or other issues.
• Discussing your symptoms, sexual history, and any recent changes in hygiene products or activities helps narrow down potential causes.

2. Tests for STIs, UTIs, and Other Infections

• STI Screening:
  If symptoms suggest a sexually transmitted infection (STI), the doctor may perform swabs, urine tests, or blood tests to check for infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, or herpes.
• Urinalysis for UTIs:
  A urine test can identify a urinary tract infection, which may cause post-sex discomfort and burning sensations.
• Fungal or Bacterial Cultures:
  Swabs from the affected area can determine if a yeast infection or bacterial imbalance is contributing to the soreness.

Treatment Options

1. Antibiotics for Bacterial Infections

• Conditions Treated:
  • STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhea.
  • Urinary tract infections (UTIs).
  • Bacterial balanitis or other penile infections.
• How It Works:
  Oral or topical antibiotics eliminate the infection and reduce symptoms. Completing the prescribed course is crucial to avoid recurrence.

2. Antifungal Creams for Yeast Infections

• Conditions Treated:
  • Fungal infections, often characterized by redness, itching, and white discharge under the foreskin.
• How It Works:
  Antifungal creams, such as clotrimazole or miconazole, are applied directly to the affected area to eliminate the infection.
• Duration:
  Symptoms typically improve within a week, but treatment should be continued as directed by a doctor.

3. Prescription Medications for Inflammation or Underlying Conditions

• Anti-Inflammatory Medications:
  • Corticosteroid creams for conditions like balanitis or dermatitis.
  • Oral anti-inflammatory drugs for severe swelling or pain.
• Treatment for Underlying Conditions:
  • Phimosis: Treatment may involve stretching exercises, prescription creams, or, in some cases, minor surgical intervention (e.g., circumcision).
  • Peyronie’s Disease: This condition may require oral medications, injections, or surgery to correct curvature and alleviate discomfort.

When to Follow Up

• Symptoms Persist Despite Treatment: If there’s no improvement after completing prescribed treatments, additional tests or alternative therapies may be required.
• Recurring Issues: Frequent penile soreness after sex may signal an underlying health problem that requires ongoing management or lifestyle adjustments.

By seeking timely medical attention and following professional recommendations, you can address the root cause of penile soreness effectively and restore both comfort and confidence in your sexual health.

Psychological Factors

The Impact of Anxiety or Stress on Sexual Health

1. Overthinking Discomfort:
   Anxiety about experiencing soreness after sex can amplify perceived discomfort. Worrying excessively about potential causes, such as infections or injuries, can lead to heightened stress and physical tension, which may worsen symptoms.
2. Communication with Your Partner About Concerns:
   Open communication is vital. Discussing discomfort or concerns with your partner helps address misunderstandings, reduce performance pressure, and improve intimacy. This ensures a more relaxed and enjoyable sexual experience.
3. Counseling or Therapy for Persistent Issues:
   For recurring anxiety, stress, or relationship difficulties, seeking professional help from a counselor or therapist can be beneficial. Therapy can address underlying psychological barriers and provide coping strategies for managing discomfort and improving sexual health.

Myths and Misconceptions

1. “Soreness Always Means an STI”:
   While STIs can cause soreness, many other benign factors, such as friction, lack of lubrication, or minor injuries, are more common causes. Assuming soreness automatically signals an STI can lead to unnecessary worry.
2. “If There’s No Visible Injury, It’s Not Serious”:
   Invisible issues like infections, allergies, or internal trauma can cause significant discomfort. Absence of visible symptoms doesn’t rule out a need for medical attention if soreness persists.
3. “Using More Lubricant Always Solves the Problem”:
   While lubrication can reduce friction, it doesn’t address other potential causes like infections, allergic reactions, or underlying health conditions. Over-relying on lubricant without addressing the root cause may delay proper treatment.

Related Topics

1. Post-Coital Hygiene Practices:
   Proper hygiene after sex, such as cleaning the genital area with warm water, helps prevent infections and irritation. Avoid harsh soaps or scented products that can exacerbate soreness.
2. Sex Positions That Reduce Strain on the Penis:
   Certain positions can minimize strain or pressure on the penis, reducing the risk of post-sex soreness. Positions that allow for more control, such as spooning or missionary, can be gentler on the body.
3. Tips for Maintaining Long-Term Penile Health:
   • Regular checkups with a healthcare provider.
   • Proper hydration and a balanced diet.
   • Practicing safe sex to prevent STIs.
   • Addressing medical concerns like phimosis or Peyronie’s disease promptly.
4. Erectile Dysfunction and Its Relationship to Physical Discomfort:
   Erectile dysfunction (ED) can be linked to physical or psychological factors. Difficulty maintaining an erection can lead to additional friction or strain, increasing the risk of soreness.

What Causes Soreness in the Penis After Sex?

Soreness in the penis after sex is a common issue that can arise from various causes. The most frequent culprit is friction, which occurs when there is insufficient lubrication during intercourse or prolonged sexual activity. This friction can lead to irritation, redness, and even microtears in the sensitive skin of the penis. Additionally, minor trauma, such as tears in the frenulum (the band of tissue under the head of the penis), can contribute to post-sex discomfort.

Other causes include allergic reactions to condoms or lubricants, which can irritate the skin and lead to inflammation. In some cases, soreness may also result from infections, such as yeast infections, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), or urinary tract infections (UTIs), all of which require medical attention to address underlying issues.

How Can I Prevent Soreness After Sexual Activity?

Preventing soreness after sexual activity involves a combination of proper preparation, mindfulness during sex, and good hygiene practices. Ensuring adequate lubrication, either through natural means or by using high-quality lubricants, is one of the most effective ways to reduce friction. Selecting condoms that fit well and avoiding those made from materials that may cause allergic reactions, such as latex, can also help minimize irritation.

During sexual activity, it’s important to pay attention to your body and adjust intensity or duration if discomfort arises. Communicating openly with your partner about any pain or concerns can prevent unnecessary strain. After sex, maintaining good hygiene, such as gently cleaning the genital area with warm water and avoiding harsh soaps, helps reduce the risk of irritation and infections.

When Should I Seek Medical Attention for Penis Pain?

While mild soreness after sex is often normal and resolves within 24 to 48 hours, certain symptoms warrant medical attention. If the pain persists for more than two days, worsens, or is accompanied by other signs such as unusual discharge, sores, swelling, or difficulty urinating, it may indicate an underlying issue that requires professional care. Infections like STIs or UTIs often present with these additional symptoms and need prompt treatment to avoid complications.

Similarly, severe or recurring pain could point to conditions such as phimosis (tight foreskin), Peyronie’s disease (penile curvature), or inflammation like balanitis. Seeking timely medical advice ensures that the root cause of the discomfort is identified and treated appropriately, helping to prevent long-term issues and restoring sexual health.

What Causes Soreness in the Penis After Sex?

Soreness in the penis after sex is often caused by friction during intercourse, especially when there is insufficient lubrication. This friction can lead to irritation, redness, and even small tears in the delicate skin of the penis. Vigorous or prolonged sexual activity can also strain the tissue, causing temporary discomfort. Additionally, allergic reactions to condoms, lubricants, or spermicides may contribute to irritation and inflammation. In some cases, soreness may result from infections such as yeast infections, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), or urinary tract infections (UTIs). Trauma, such as a minor tear in the frenulum (the band of tissue on the underside of the penis), is another potential cause, particularly during aggressive sexual activity or when the penis is bent unnaturally.

How to Alleviate Penis Pain After Sexual Activity?

To alleviate soreness in the penis after sex, start by gently cleaning the area with warm water to remove any irritants, such as bodily fluids or lubricant residues. Avoid using scented soaps or harsh cleansers, as these can exacerbate irritation. Applying a cold compress can help reduce swelling and numb the area, providing temporary relief from pain. Over-the-counter creams, such as hydrocortisone for minor inflammation or antifungal creams for suspected yeast infections, may also be effective, depending on the cause of the discomfort. Resting from sexual activity for a few days allows the tissues to heal, reducing the risk of further irritation. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical advice for targeted treatment.

Is Soreness After Sex a Sign of an Underlying Issue?

While soreness after sex is often harmless and temporary, it can sometimes indicate an underlying issue. If the pain is accompanied by other symptoms, such as unusual discharge, sores, or difficulty urinating, it may signal an infection, such as an STI or UTI, which requires medical evaluation. Conditions like phimosis (a tight foreskin) or Peyronie’s disease (a curvature in the penis due to scar tissue) can also cause recurring discomfort during or after sex. Inflammatory conditions such as balanitis, which affects the head of the penis, may present with redness, swelling, and pain. Recognizing these signs early is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment, ensuring long-term penile health.

When Should You See a Doctor for Penis Pain?

You should see a doctor for penis pain if the soreness persists for more than 48 hours, worsens, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms. These symptoms include discharge, open sores, visible swelling, fever, or burning sensations during urination. Persistent pain may indicate an underlying condition, such as an infection, trauma, or inflammation, that requires medical intervention. Severe or recurring discomfort, particularly if it interferes with sexual activity or daily life, should not be ignored. Consulting a healthcare provider ensures that the cause of the pain is accurately identified and treated before it leads to complications.

Can Lubrication Help Prevent Penis Soreness After Sex?

Yes, proper lubrication can significantly reduce the risk of penis soreness during and after sex. Lack of lubrication increases friction, which can irritate the skin and lead to discomfort or minor injuries. Using a high-quality lubricant—whether water-based, silicone-based, or oil-based (depending on compatibility with condoms)—creates a smoother glide, minimizing friction. Ensuring adequate foreplay to stimulate natural lubrication also helps reduce dryness. For individuals sensitive to certain lubricants, hypoallergenic or natural options can prevent allergic reactions and irritation. Proper lubrication not only enhances comfort but also protects the delicate tissue of the penis, making sexual activity more enjoyable and reducing the risk of post-sex soreness.

FAQs

1. Is Soreness After Sex Normal?

Yes, mild soreness or irritation after sex is common, particularly after vigorous activity or insufficient lubrication. However, it should resolve within 24–48 hours.

2. How Long Should It Last Before I Get Concerned?

If soreness persists for more than 48 hours or is accompanied by other symptoms such as discharge, swelling, or difficulty urinating, consult a healthcare provider.

3. Can This Affect My Ability to Have Sex Again Soon?

Yes, engaging in sexual activity too soon after experiencing soreness can exacerbate the issue. Allow time for full recovery before resuming sexual activity.

4. What If My Partner Also Experiences Discomfort?

If both partners experience discomfort, it could indicate a shared issue, such as a reaction to a product (e.g., condoms or lubricants) or an infection. Seeking medical advice together can help determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

By addressing psychological factors, debunking myths, exploring related topics, and answering common questions, individuals can better understand and manage soreness after sex, ensuring both physical and emotional well-being.

References

1. American Urological Association (AUA)
2. Mayo Clinic
3. Cleveland Clinic
4. Planned Parenthood
5. WebMD
6. Sexual Medicine Society of North America (SMSNA)

These references provide medically reviewed and credible information on topics related to soreness after sex, penile health, and overall sexual wellness.