Lifestyle: Short penis syndrome explained

A condition known as short penis syndrome causes men with normal-sized penises to feel that they are smaller than average.

Some sexual health experts are concerned that the issue could cause men to seek out medications or questionable remedies for the misperceived shortcoming, according to The New York Daily News.

The syndrome was the subject of a study conducted by specialists at the University of Turin. The results were published in the British Journal of Urology International.

“Penile size is a matter of great interest among men who are affected by ‘short penis syndrome’ or just believe themselves to have a small short penis, even though the dimensions of the organ fall within the normal range,” said Marco Oderda, a urologist who contributed to the study, according to the news source.

The condition likely stems from the amount of advertising concerning penis size that men are subjected to on a daily basis. These include

commercials for male enhancement, and general depictions of “typically masculine” men in the media.

“We equate masculinity and power with penis size,” Ira Sharlip, clinical professor of urology at the University of California at San Francisco, told WebMD. “Of course, there’s really no relationship.”

The New York Daily News lists some tips for men who suffer from short penis syndrome.

First, if you have a few extra pounds around the gut, it may be time to take up an exercise and diet regimen. An overhanging stomach can cause a penis to look smaller than it actually is.

Additionally, trimming pubic hair can help, as a thicker bush “down there” can obscure an inch or two.

Lastly, it may be wise to visit a sex health expert to discuss the issue and ask any other questions you may have about sexual health information.