Is It Normal to Have a Curved Penis?

What's the difference between a bent penis and a curved penis? Is there one? Why do some men bend one way while others curve in the opposite direction?

And at the heart of it all: Is it normal to have a curved dick?

Myths about penis curves

No need to panic: A curved penis is normal and safe. As long as you're not in pain and your sexual function isn't impaired, your bend should leave you with no issues.

There are two common misconceptions about penis curvature: that it happens because of tugging or that it happens because of trapping. As you might have figured out, however, there's no truth to these theories.

Myth: Your penis curves the way you tug

While masturbating, men are most likely to use their dominant hand. In many curved-penis cases, the penis happens to bend toward the person's dominant side, propelling the myth that the direction in which you "tug" causes the penis to curve that way.

In truth, masturbation has little to do with penis curvature, and there's no reason to switch hands in an attempt to straighten out your penis.

Myth: Your penis curves because it's trapped in a pant leg

Another common misconception is that your penis curves in the direction it usually lies. For most of the day, the penis is pulled tight against one side of the pant leg; some people believe this forces the penis to curve to that side.

Again, this is nothing more than a myth. Wearing tight pants or loose pants isn't going to change the angle of your penis.

The causes of a curved penis

Now that we know what doesn't cause your penis to curve, let's talk about what does.

Normal body asymmetries

Inside the shaft of the penis are two structures called the corpora cavernosa, whose sponge-like tissue can grow in size and maintain an erection. When blood rushes to the penis, the two sponges aren't always perfectly in sync, causing one to hold more blood than the other. When this happens, the penis curves.

As long as the curve is less than 30 degrees and doesn't cause pain during sex, it's perfectly normal. In fact, having a curved penis could be better for penetrative sex. Whether your penis curves left, right, up or down, having a curve could help stimulate the vaginal or anal wall during sex, making sex more pleasurable for your partner.

Penis injuries

Some penis injuries, such as penis fracture, can cause the penis to curve.

The corpora cavernosa is enveloped by the fibrous tunica albuginea; a penis fracture occurs when the tunica albuginea tears or the spongy tissue inside ruptures. In either of these instances, a person could experience sudden pain, loss of erection or a bent penis. Penis fractures typically are a result of injury during intercourse. A penis fracture is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention and may need surgery to heal properly.

Some injuries can cause minor scar tissue to build up on one side of the penis over time, eventually causing a slight curve. To avoid causing injury, be gentle with your grip.

Peyronie's disease

Men with Peyronie's disease develop fibrous scar tissue at the base of the penis, resulting in a painfully curved erect penis. Peyronie's disease could also cause erectile dysfunction and penile shortening. An early visit to a physician can help prevent symptoms from worsening and even resolve them after a few months of treatment.

What to know about curved penises

Bends in your penis are normal as long as you don't experience pain or other symptoms associated with the curve. In fact, angles can be better for sex. Unless your curve is causing pain, enjoy the benefits it brings. If you have any doubts or questions about penile curvature, be sure to see your urologist for an evaluation.