Why Is My Penis Purple? Possible Causes
Color changes of the penis can be distressing and even dangerous. Perhaps one of the more noticeable changes a man may experience is the purple-tinted penis in many cases. Although this is a benign condition with countless common causes, it’s important to know when it’s indicative of something more serious. In this article, we will discuss the possible reasons for purple penis, the symptoms you should look out for, and when you should visit a doctor.
Understanding Normal Penis Coloration
Before we explore the potential causes of a purple penis, let’s take a look at what’s normal. The penis can be very different in color from one person to another. Genetics, skin pigmentation, and blood circulation are all important contributors to the skin’s natural hue.
The penis usually turns pink, red, or darker depending on who you are. The glans (point of the penis) is typically darker than the shaft, and often darker than that. Color shifts can be influenced by factors like temperature, sex, and medical conditions.
What Are The Causes Of A Purple Penis?
1. Increased Blood Flow and Erection
A higher blood supply during sexual desire or erection is one of the least objectionable explanations for a purple penis. If the penis erects, its blood vessels burst and it temporarily takes on a different color. It might appear as a more subtle shade of pink or purple, which usually clears up once the erection has broken down.
If purpleness only shows up in response to arousal, and not because of pain or discomfort, then that’s probably a physiological adaptation.
2. Bruising or Trauma
If you’ve ever had any injuries in your genitals, either from a hard night of sex, an accident on the athletic field or a recent surgery, the bloody tissue may appear purple. This happens because blood clumps under the skin to form a purple, blue or black bruise, depending on its age and degree of severity.
Small bruises heal relatively well, but larger trauma can be a medical emergency if you are suffering from pain, swelling or any difficulties getting or maintaining an erection.
3. Penile Conditions
Certain illnesses will change the color of the penis. Some of these conditions include:
a. Peyronie’s Disease
It occurs in peyronie’s disease, which causes scar tissue to form within the penis and may lead to painful erections and a constricting sexual position. Although the disorder does not merely render the penis purple, it can result in bruising or discoloration of the affected site due to pressure on the blood vessels.
b. Lichen Planus
This autoimmune disease can manifest in the skin and mucous membranes, including the genitals. It can also bring lesions and pigmentation changes, which can give the complexion a red appearance. You need to see a dermatologist or urologist to properly diagnose and treat lichen planus if you believe that it is a possibility.
c. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Some STIs, like herpes or syphilis, can result in purple or discoloured sores or lesions. These infections often accompany other symptoms, including itching, pain or abnormal drainage. If you believe you have an STI, get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible.
4. Vascular Issues
Variations in penile colour are also associated with vasoconstriction. Sometimes, for example, bleeding caused by thrombosis (a blood clot in a vein) will make the skin look purple as the blood does not circulate. Similarly, varicose veins in the male organ can cause local swelling and discoloration.
If you’re noticing long-term purple discoloration, especially if it is pain or swelling, you need to see a doctor and rule out more serious conditions of the vascular system.
5. Allergic Reactions or Skin Conditions
Skin may also turn yellow or pale in some cases, because of allergic reactions to soaps, lotions, condoms, or other products. These reactions can be swollen, red, and sometimes purplish.
Moreover, diseases of the skin like eczema or psoriasis can come down on the genitals, causing the skin to become unevenly pigmented and rough. When you feel the need for an allergy or suspect a skin condition, contact a medical professional to discuss treatment options.
6. Cancer
Penile cancer, while uncommon, often takes the form of brownish discolouration of the skin on the penis. It can look like a lump or sore that does not go away and can take different shapes, including purple. Other accompanying symptoms could include skin discoloration, unusual fluid production or bleeding.
If you notice that your penis has changed constantly or starts turning purple, it is important to see a doctor immediately to rule out cancer or other potentially dangerous conditions.
Symptoms to Watch For
Although a purple penis may manifest for many reasons, certain accompanied symptoms might warrant medical examination:
Persistent discoloration: If the purple does not come off after sex or trauma.
Pain or discomfort: Any kind of inflammation, particularly if it’s severe or chronic.
Swelling or hard lumps: Any strange looseness or hard lumps that don’t conform to the surrounding tissue.
Susceptibility to urination: Pattern of urination changes or discomfort during the process.
Spleen: Any abnormal pus from the penis, particularly if it has a musty odor.
Fever or general symptoms: If you feel fever, chills, or malaise in addition to the staining.
When to Seek Medical Attention
A mild purple tint to the penis is relatively harmless, but some conditions require immediate treatment:
Persistent discoloration: If the purple does not disappear after a suitable period of time, consult a physician.
Pain or discomfort: Any pain, especially extreme pain, should be evaluated by a physician.
Signs of infection: In case of swelling, bruising, discharge or wounds, please contact your doctor immediately.
Unusual changes: There are any other significant changes in the appearance of the penis or accompanied symptoms that you should not ignore.
Conclusion: Why Is My Penis Purple? 5 Possible Causes
Feeling the penis turns purple may seem scary, but knowing what is causing it can help to clarify and feel calm. More often than not, it can simply be a matter of heightened blood flow, minor bruises, or a little redness. But you need to be on the lookout for symptoms that might point toward a more serious issue.
If you are not sure, do not hesitate to consult with a medical provider who will assess and treat you properly. Don’t let anything stop you from gaining control of your sexual life, and education is the first step to ensuring it.
