Although the penis is part of the male body, it still holds many interesting and little-known facts. You might wonder why erections often happen in the morning, why the penis can suddenly appear smaller with activity, or why sizes vary.

Here are several facts that can answer common questions and curiosity.

1. When Does the Penis Get Its First Erection?

You might assume the first erection occurs at puberty or later in adulthood.

In reality, erections can occur even before birth. Ultrasound tests sometimes show a fetus with a full erection, which explains why newborns may also have erections.

2. Does Shoe Size Determine Penis Size: Myth or Fact?

A 2002 study in BJU International found no link between shoe size and penis size. Another study in 2006 (International Journal of Impotence Research) suggested size may correlate with age, height, and index-finger length, but not foot size.

In addition, genetic factors also play a major role, alongside hormones, environment, body type, fitness, medical conditions, and nutrition that determine penis size.

3. The Penis Can Break

Even without bones, the penis can sustain a fracture. This injury can result from intense sexual activity, excessive masturbation, a fall, or trauma to an erect penis.

4. Smoking Can Shrink the Penis

Beyond raising the risk of heart disease and cancer, smoking can reduce penile size. Smoking harms blood vessels and can impair erections, preventing a firm, full erection.

5. Penis Glans Is Similar to the Clitoris

During early embryonic development, the glans and the clitoris arise from related tissues. As a result, both structures are highly sensitive to touch and can enlarge with increased sexual arousal.

6. Circumcised and Uncircumcised: What’s the Difference?

Functionally, circumcised and uncircumcised penises work the same. Circumcision began as a cultural and religious practice and appears to offer several health benefits, including:

• Easier hygiene of the penis

• Lower risk of urinary tract infections

• Reduced risk of sexually transmitted infections

• Prevention of certain penile disorders

• Lower risk of penile cancer

7. Erections as a Sign of Health

There are two essential systems in the body to cause erections: healthy blood vessels to deliver blood to penis and healthy nerves to signal those blood vessels. When either is impaired, erectile dysfunction can occur.

Medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure may affect blood vessels and lead to erection problems.

If you have an erection every morning, then you don't need to worry because this generally indicate good health.

8. Fungal Infections of Penis

Men can also develop fungal infections. Balanitis is inflammation of penis glans, and fungal overgrowth (often Candida on moist skin) is a common cause.

Though fungal infection in penis is less frequently reported, it may be transmitted through sexual contact. Balanitis is more common in uncircumcised men and may appear as a whitish, shiny, reddish coating on the glans, with itchiness and a burning sensation in the penis.

Maintaining penile health matters as much as keeping other organs healthy. If you notice unusual signs in your penis, such as itchiness, burning sensation, difficulty maintaining an erection, or penile discharge, do not wait and consult a doctor immediately.

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