Penis Skin Rash, 5 Most Common Causes

Five of the most common penis problems are described here, along with their causes and options for treatment, from medication to the regular use of penis vitamins and minerals that may help to resolve penis problems and promote male intimate health.

Irritation

Reddened and irritated penis skin which occurs especially after sex, naturally enough raises concerns about the last sexual partner and the possibility of a sexually transmitted disease. While it is always advisable to use protection and to be selective in the choice of sexual partners, the explanation for irritation and penis skin rash is often more straightforward: friction caused by deep or vigorous penetration is often enough to cause redness, rash and soreness on the sensitive skin of the penis.

However, if irritated skin does not heal within a few days, becomes worse, or is accompanied by fever or other flu-like symptoms, men are always advised to seek medical treatment right away.

Thrush

Another common type of penis skin rash results from a condition called thrush, which is a form of yeast infection. Thrush is caused by an overgrowth of yeast on the skin which is in most cases due to a chemical imbalance. Thrush is easily passed between sexual partners and can affect women too, so when symptoms of a yeast infection are present, it is best to abstain from sex until the infection disappears.

Thrush is generally treated with over-the-counter anti-fungal medications (similar to those used to treat vaginal yeast infection). Men who are experiencing these symptoms for the first time should talk to a doctor to verify the diagnosis before self-medicating.

Jock Itch

Jock itch, known in medical terms as tinea cruris, is a type of fungal infection. It is caused by an overgrowth of the same type of fungus that is responsible for athlete's foot and ringworm. Jock itch presents as a red, spreading rash which may be accompanied by severe itching and/or burning, and it can affect the entire groin area.

Jock itch is a stubborn infection. It can be treated with over-the-counter antifungal medications - these should be used for the recommended duration, even if the symptoms clear up quickly, or the infection can recur. Taking steps to prevent infection in the first place is the best way to avoid this infection. Men should avoid sharing towels and articles of clothing, keep the area clean and dry, and wash items such as athletic supports regularly. All fungal infections thrive in moist, warm areas and can live on in unwashed clothing and towels for an extended period of time.

Penile Psoriasis

A spreading, flaking penis skin rash with clearly defined edges and/or a scaly appearance may be an indication of psoriasis. While this condition is not contagious, it can cause social embarrassment and is often extremely off-putting to potential sexual partners.

Treating psoriasis often involves the application of vitamin A creams; steroid treatments may also be used in difficult cases. Because this condition is chronic, ongoing treatment may be necessary to promote smooth, healthy-looking penis skin.

Penis Papules

Whitish or pink bumps that resemble acne are common on the penis skin and may resemble a rash. However, these growths, which are usually found around the crown of the penis, are benign and generally don't cause any other symptoms. Treating the skin with a conditioning and moisturizing cream may help to maintain smooth, attractive penis skin.

Maintaining Penis Health

The key to preventing many common penis problems or to promoting rapid healing of minor penis skin rashes lies in adequate attention to hygiene and nutrition. Bathing regularly and using mild cleansers, rather than soaps (which are often drying and can result in further irritation) is recommended. Wearing loose, comfortable clothing can allow the skin to breathe and discourage the growth of yeast and fungal infections in intimate areas.

Nourishing the penis skin with a male-specific penis health formula (most health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) containing skin nutrients such as vitamins A, C, D, and E, as well as antioxidants and all-natural moisturizers, may help to reduce the incidence of infection, soothe irritated skin, and leave the penis looking and feeling smooth, supple and healthy.

For additional information on most common penis health issues, tips on improving penis sensitivity, and what to do to maintain a healthy penis, visit: penishealth101.com. John Dugan is a professional writer who specializes in men's health issues and is an ongoing contributing writer to numerous online web sites. Providing useful mens health and fitness and wellness articles, writings and reviews online.

The 7 Deadly Sins Of Penis Enlargement (And What To Do Instead To Get An AMAZING Penis Size!)

You want to get an amazing penis size, right? Alright, well, there are 7 things I strongly recommend you avoid doing, and there is one thing I strongly suggest you do instead. Continue reading on to learn more...

1. You're trying to extend your penis with a tool...

To make your penis grow longer, some of the things that need to happen is an increase of blood flow and your penile chambers need to be expanded. The primary thing that needs to happen is your suspensory ligament needs to be stretched out. So here's the thing, in order for those things to happen effectively, safely, significantly, and permanently, it must be done NATURALLY.

Tools are NOT natural and are very dangerous... period.

2. You're trying to inflate your penis artificially...

To get a thicker penis, there needs to be more blood flowing and your penile chambers need to be expanded. Pumping your penis up, putting clamps on your penis, or having a surgeon implant fatty tissue into your penile chambers are all unnatural... and EXTREMELY dangerous.

3. You're going in for surgery...

Surgery is actually one of the only methods that actually works and is of course permanent. However, the results you get from this EXPENSIVE procedure are not that significant, there are a myriad of side-effects to be concerned about, and the recovery time is VERY long (with no sexual activities allowed).

4. You are using pills to try to enlarge your penis...

The way pills work is they help (somewhat) with increasing blood circulation into your penile shaft... and that's it. To get a bigger manhood, you need more blood flow... AND... you need to have bigger penile chambers, a longer suspensory ligament, and a stronger PC muscle as well. I'm pretty sure there are no pills out that are capable of causing cell division and regrowth on your penile chambers.

5. You are not enhancing your ENTIRE manhood...

How would it look and what do you think will happen to your body functions if all you did with exercise is just arm curls? You would look pretty funny, right? Also, because your arms are bigger and stronger while the rest of your body is still the same, this will end up causing a ton of medical issues, right?

Well, the same applies for penis enlargement. Your dream may be to have a longer penis, but don't just work on adding inches. Also work on making it thicker and harder as well. Not only will it look amazing, it will also function better, you'll protect the health of your penis, and you'll avoid getting side-effects.

6. You are continuing with an unnatural method... even though it has already caused you side-effects...

Listen, I'm not going to sit here and try to tell you what to do. If you're reading this article, you are a grown man and can make up your own mind. So, what I'm going to do here is just offer some friendly advice (based off of personal experience and tons of research). If you are doing a method right now that is causing you side-effects, please cease doing it immediately. I've seen some absolute horror stories of guys who ended up with disfigured penises and all other kinds of disturbing side-effects due to using a dangerous method.

7. You attempt to enlarge your manhood with you having a medical condition with your penis...

Bottom line, consult your physician before beginning any type of enhancement... ESPECIALLY if you have a medical condition or think you may have a condition with your manhood. You don't need me to tell you that although it would be freaking awesome to have a 7-9 inch penis erection, it doesn't make any sense to work on getting to this size at the risk of having some serious complications... and some of which may be permanent.

So, What Does Work Effectively To Improve My Manhood?

Well, if you read everything above, then you can clearly see that going with an unnatural method is a very bad idea. So, the best solution is to go with a natural method that will enhance your ENTIRE manhood significantly, easily, quickly (I got amazing results within the first 3 weeks), and permanently. The natural method I recommend (and used myself) are natural penis exercises.

Penis exercises (which are recommended by doctors by the way) are great for increasing the size of your manhood because they are very easy to do, they are very safe, they are fun to do and only take under 10 minutes, the programs that teach you all the different types of secret exercise methods are very affordable, you'll also cure premature ejaculation, and so much more. Another great thing about this method is that it is 100% permanent. I went from 5 1/2 inches to 7 1/2 inches in just under 8 weeks (I saw my first significant increase in the first 3 weeks)... and my results have lasted permanently... and that was 2 years ago.

Are you ready to Enlarge Your Penis and have INSANE ORGASMS in as little as your first 3 weeks? Well, I actually came across this amazing penis exercise program a while back that helped me gain 2 inches to my size lightning fast and... permanently. This award winning program is safe, effective, permanent, and you can download everything INSTANTLY (no embarrassing stops at a store or packages to receive)!

To learn more, simply click the following link: NaturallyIncreasePenisSize.info. WARNING: This program is EXTREMELY effective, and I highly recommend you stop the program for 48-72 hours if you begin to grow more than an inch in a weeks time. Providing useful mens health and fitness and wellness articles, writings and reviews online.

Make Your Penis Look Longer Without Surgery

Many men want a bigger penis. This is either because they feel that the one they have is smaller than average, or because they just want to have a bigger one than most other men. The principle is not dissimilar to breast enlargement for women. It is true to say that women who have breast enlargement surgery do not always have small breasts, yet is does not stop them seeking out implants that sometimes make their breasts look as though they are about to burst.

The prospect of penis enlargement surgery might not be a tempting option for you. Unless a woman wants to wear a padded bra for evermore, she has to consider surgery. For men who want a bigger penis however, there are a few options. Lets take a look at them here.

You can make your penis look bigger, right now, without spending any money at all. I know this might sound too good to be true, but please bear with me here for a moment. To demonstrate my first tip, start by taking a look at your penis in a large mirror. Ideally a full length mirror is best. Now, if you are looking at a thatch of pubic hair covering your manhood, then removing this is the first step to making your penis look bigger than it is now.

You do not have to shave the pubic hair off altogether if you don't want to. Some say that this gives maximum impact though if you do. At least start by trimming the excess pubic hair, getting it as short as you possibly can. Notice how your penis suddenly starts to look longer. This is simply because more of it can be seen. Consider shaving everything off and then really see the difference.

One word of caution if I may. Be very careful when taking scissors or a razor around your private parts. Make sure you use a mirror and that there is plenty of light in the room. When you have finished you can admire your new longer looking penis, and remember that you achieved this without spending any money at all.

Having got this far, remember to keep the area neatly trimmed ( or shaven if this is your preference ) and this simple exercise should give you a little boost of confidence when it matters most.

So what else can we do if penis enlargement surgery is just too expensive, or not ever an option?. You could consider investing in a penis enlarger. These have been around for a long time and they work on the principle of traction. The device stretches the penis when the traction device is fitted. Most men use these in an evening but there are devices out there claiming that they can be worn comfortably in the daytime. I am not convinced by that argument as they are quite cumbersome and surely noticeable underneath your trousers. You will need to be patient, results do not appear overnight. However, with regular use you should see some improvement after a few months. It is vital that you take accurate measurements at the outset, otherwise you will not know if you are making any progress.

Just how bigger you can increase your penis size with such devices is open to debate. Remember though that you must be realistic with your expectations. I have seen claims of size increases that seem unrealistic to me. Be Patient and you should see some improvement.

So if you want to get a bigger penis without having penis enlargement surgery, then here you have two options. The first option will cost you nothing at all, the second option will cost you money, but less than the cost of penis enlargement surgery.

I have over thirty years experience in the cosmetic surgery industry, mostly as a Senior Manager and Board Director.

If you have any questions about Penis enlargement surgery, or other ways of getting a bigger penis, go to moorgateaesthetics.com/penis-enlargement-surgery.html. Providing quality mens health and fitness and wellness reviews online.

Keeping a Healthy Prostate

Common Prostate Problems

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Prostate problems become more common after the age of 50; this is due to the fact that a man's prostate gland continues to grow throughout his life.

One of the most common prostate issues is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) which is more commonly known by its non-medical term; an enlarged prostate. This can present numerous issues to a man:

1. May become difficult to urinate

2. Dribbling after urination

3. May need to urinate more often

4. Waking up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom

5. Stop/Start urination

6. It may become painful when ejaculating

7. Uncomfortable urination

Chronic Prostatitis

Chronic prostatitis is a relatively common problem amongst men. There are numerous similarities with BPH in terms of the issues and symptoms caused by chronic prostatitis. However unlike BPH, men tend to experience pain at the bottom of the back as well as within the groin area.

Ways to Help Keep a Healthy Prostate

First of all, it is important to test for prostate problems and continue to be aware of any symptoms should they arise. There are, however, things that can make a man's life easier, such as taking herbal remedies and supplements that are clinically proven to maintain a healthy prostate.

Eating the right foods is essential in maintaining a healthy prostate and protecting one's self from more serious disorders. The following foods have been studied and shown to have positive effects on prostate health:

1. Ginger, Pumpkin seeds and apples

These foods all contain anti-inflammatory properties. This group of super foods are full of beneficial compounds that can be helpful in keeping a healthy prostate. These foods are especially good when suffering from an enlarged prostate; the seeds can help with the urinary problems that an enlarged prostate can cause.

2. Tomatoes

Numerous scientific studies have identified tomatoes as a key food when combating prostate cancer. A ripe, juicy tomato is full of something called lycopene; Lycopene has been proven to have a positive effect when battling cancer.

Three or more servings of tomatoes a week can, in some cases, significantly help to reduce the risk of prostate cancer

3. Cranberry & Pomegranate

These two delicious fruits contain antioxidants which can help reduce the inflammation of the prostate gland. There are many cranberry and pomegranate drinks that contain all the anti-inflammatory properties that help fight against prostate issues.

4. Stay away from the fat

Limit the amount of fatty foods eaten. It is essential to keep a healthy diet in order to maintain a healthy prostate; try a diet that is high in fruit and natural oils

NutriPlus Prime Prostate is a 100% herbal, natural, super strength supplement for prostate problems. This super strength prostate health supplements contains saw palmetto extract and 21 other highly effective ingredients that can help combat prostate issues. Providing quality mens health and fitness and wellness reviews online.

Penis Hygiene, What to Do and What to Avoid

Washing and cleaning the penis is an important part of being a man. As well keeping everything smelling good and looking great downstairs, it helps to prevent pathological diseases from taking root. While adequate vitamins and minerals are essential for penis health, it won't keep away disease if the genital area isn't looked after. Washing doesn't have to be complicated or time consuming. Keeping a clean penis, whether you are circumcised or uncircumcised, is a simple affair that takes a few seconds every day. But be careful when doing so, as improper cleaning can be as damaging as not washing often enough.

Regular Washing

Many men neglect to clean their penis thoroughly, despite hygiene being so important for preventing diseases of the genital area. Dust, dirt, sweat and bacteria all can lead to foul body odor, irritation and inflammation. Men should wash the penis every single day, and pay special attention to gently wash the area beneath the foreskin. When in the shower or bath the penis can be properly cleaned by gently retracting back the foreskin as far as it will go and rinse the skin underneath and the glans with warm water. This helps to prevent a build-up of smegma, a natural oily lubricant made up of dead skin cells, that may have a cheese-like appearance in some men. While smegma is natural, it can begin to develop a strong odor if it does build up beneath the foreskin.

Soaps and Perfumes

Skin care products can often have a negative effect on the skin of the penis. The areas beneath the foreskin, the shaft and the glans of the penis can be incredibly sensitive in many men, and washing with regular soap can cause soreness to develop. Regular soaps may also strip natural oils and moisture from the skin, leaving tissues dry, rough and irritated. Warm water should be more than enough for cleaning the penis and beneath the foreskin. If a man does require soap, using mild or natural soaps that are free of alcohol, parabens and perfumes are better. Skin care products scented with natural oils or essential oils may be better tolerated than perfumes, but some oils, such as tea tree, can cause skin irritation in some men, so read product labels and use with caution.

Moisturizers

Excessive washing can cause as many problems as not washing enough. Moderate and gentle washing of the penis is important to prevent stripping the skin tissues of their oils and causing cellular damage. According to a study published in Genitourinary Medicine in 1993, men who wash their genital area very frequently are more likely to suffer from skin problems such as eczema and atopic dermatitis. While atopic skin conditions affecting the penis can cause great discomfort, 90% of men who used emollients like penis health crèmes and restricted their use of soap were able to reverse their symptoms. This shows that as well as maintaining good penis hygiene, it is highly beneficial to replace the lost moisture in the skin of the penis with nutrient-rich skin care products. Avoid highly perfumed products, and always test a moisturizer on a small patch of skin before applying to large areas of the body.

Step 4 Penis Health Crèmes

Men can improve penis health by applying topical products known as penis health crèmes. Special formulas (most professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) contains Shea Butter as well as various vitamins and amino acids for male health. For example, vitamin C has shown to support circulation to the penis, vitamin D is an antioxidant, Acetyl L Carnitine enhances nerve health and L-Arginine is required for strong male arousal. These nutrients are combined with amino acids and Shea butter for fast absorption, and can be applied daily to promote healthy skin and blood vessels in the penis.

For additional information on most common men's health issues, tips on improving male organ sensitivity, and what to do to maintain a healthy manhood, visit: penishealth101.com. John Dugan is a professional writer who specializes in men's health issues and contributes feature articles and blogs to numerous publications. Providing quality mens health and fitness and wellness reviews online.

The Role of Penis Health Creams in Preventing a Curvature of the Penis

A slightly curved erect penis is a relatively common condition, affecting approximately 80% of all males. However curvature of the penis can progress and become painful, cause difficulties with intercourse, and even result in long-term deformity. Treating the skin of the penis with a high-quality penis health cream may be helpful in preventing the underlying cause of a curved or bent penis.

What causes curvature of the penis?

Curvature of the penis is diagnosed when the shaft bends during an erection. This is caused by a buildup of fibrous scar tissue under the skin. This tissue can be felt whether an erection is present or not. While the exact cause of this buildup is not well-understood, there appears to be a genetic component. In other words, men who have older family members with a curved penis are more likely to develop the condition themselves.

Men who have fractured the penis during intercourse or who are undergoing radiation therapy are more likely to develop a curved or bent penis and experience complications. Males at any age who experience pain during an erection should seek medical advice at the earliest opportunity.

Complications from a curved penis

If left untreated, a curved penis may develop into a condition known as Peyronie's disease, which can have lasting consequences on penile health. A severely curved penis can be extremely painful during an erection, and depending on the degree of curvature, penetration may become difficult or even impossible.

Treating a curved or bent penis

Once Peyronie's disease has developed, several options are available. Oral medications, radiation treatments, and surgery have all been used to correct the problem. However, these measures are known to lead to impotence in many cases, and they do not always correct the problem. Therefore, these are generally best left as a last resort.

In addition, vitamins E and A have been shown to reduce the formation of scar tissue in some cases and may help to reduce curvature or prevent it from occurring. Numerous other vitamins and minerals have also demonstrated positive results in terms of penile tissue health.

Nutrients for the penis - maintaining penis condition through proper nourishment of the skin

The following vitamins, antioxidants and amino acids have demonstrated a positive effect on skin cells and connective tissue and may be useful in sustaining penis health:

• Vitamin A - keeps the skin soft and supple; often used for the prevention or treatment of scar tissue.

• Vitamin C - Works to keep the skin well-oxygenated, boosting its healing properties, and needed for the formation and repair of the connective tissue underlying the dermis.

• Vitamin B5 - Supports overall health of skin and connective tissue cells.

• Vitamin E - May help to prevent or reduce fibrous scar tissue and keeps the skin soft, smooth and supple.

• Alpha lipoic acid - An important antioxidant that helps to prevent skin damage; also needed for proper metabolic function of skin and nerve cells.

• L-Arginine - An amino acid that works to promote optimum circulation and plays a role in the oxygenation of skin cells.

What to look for in a penis health cream

In order to enjoy the benefits of these vital nutrients, it is best to apply them directly to the penis, as the skin is highly absorbent and can help to ensure that they are delivered where they are needed most. A penis health formula (men's health advocates recommend Man1 Man Oil) should contain all of the ingredients listed above, as well as natural moisturizers needed to maintain the integrity of the skin's surface. Penis creams that are all-natural and free of fragrances, synthetic lubricants and dyes are recommended for all skin types to prevent drying or irritation of the sensitive tissue in the genital area.

For additional information on most common penis health issues, tips on improving penis sensitivity, and what to do to maintain a healthy penis, visit: penishealth101.com John Dugan is a professional writer who specializes in men's health issues and is an ongoing contributing writer to numerous online web sites. Providing quality mens health and fitness and wellness reviews online.

Pearly Penile Papules Treatment: 2 The Most Common Remedies

Let's See First What Penile Pearly Papules Are

Just before you have understood both these treatment methods, we can understand what exactly PPP Trouble really is. The little, light pimples generally known as "Hirsuties coronae glandis" are normally found largely all around male's penis head (glans) and look such as very small, light spots. Such type of physiological situation comes up often between uncircumcised along with younger men. Honestly, it's not necessary to be frightened by their existence!

Many men, close to 20 percent, world-wide are afflicted by this sort of skin problem that is certainly absolutely normal, based upon dermatology scientists, and doesn't really need any type of treatment plan. However,, now there are lots guys that suffer mental distress over such concern for the reason that its aesthetic appearance may make these guys experience social in addition to sexual discomfort.

At this stage it starts interfering with their healthy sexual lifestyles by way of avoidance from every sexual connections and romances with girls. Only if that happens, any Penile Pearly Papules Removal Procedures can be recommended.

Penile Pearly Papules Treatment Procedures

Currently the major two pearly penile papule treatment solutions have been proven as helpful. The very first is a CO2 laser removal while the second is a tea tree oil. Both treatments' performance is backed up by tens of thousands past customer testimonials of outstanding and long-term penile pearly papules elimination results.

On this article you will discover details about each procedure alternative. Moreover, you'll be able to discover the right remedy for you according to provided on this article information.

#1 Tea Tree Oil Natural Remedy

Tea tree oil has been used extensively for treating skin cuts, injuries, burns and infections. Moreover, it was used even for skin conditions such as acne mostly because of its antiseptic, antifungal and antimicrobial effects.

Applying only a small amount of this oil on the affected area can make wonders for the skin. Thus, it also was adopted as a Pearly Penile Papules Removal treatment. However, many men who once tried this method, argue that tea tree oil is ineffective PPP treatment.

In fact, there are a lot of men who successfully treated their PPP skin condition with tea tree oil. The real reason why the first failed to get the same positive results is because such treatment requires compliance to certain, particular, and consequent steps.

#2 CO2 Laser Removal

The CO 2 laser (carbon dioxide laser) technology began around 50 years from today. Firstly, Carbon dioxide lasers normally were used in industrial needs. Nevertheless, afterward they also have been proven very handy in surgical operations. Usually applied in laser treatments such as elimination of skin tags and/or abnormal growths on human beings bodies, moreover it was implemented to take care of specific skin disorders like Pearly Penile Papule case.

Co2 laser is an not visible high-power nonstop wave. Those waves target water, so that all tissue containing water will absorb the laser energy. By burning the skin using high-power waves, the penile papules heat up and subsequently vaporize. Recovery time from this kind of treatment solution may take 7-14 days.

While patients may be able to return to their routine activities right after the treatment process was completed, there are actually potential swelling, soreness and scabbing side effects through the recovery period. This treatment should only be carried out by the board-certified dermatologist.

There are many common and uncommon useless Pearly Penile Papule treatment options. Among them are Freezing, Wart Removal Products, Cryosurgery, Creams, Honey, Toothpaste, and so on. Unfortunately, the uselessness of these methods supported by thousands unsuccessful men's attempts to remove their PPP. Sometimes, men who suffer from such condition use some dangerous PPP treatment methods which may worsen their situation.

Check out the entire detailed PPP removal review. Get more info about pearly penile papules treatment methods. Providing quality mens health and fitness and wellness reviews online.

Lessons From Iron John: A Book About Men

"By the time a man is 35 he knows that the images of the right man, the tough man, the true man which he received in high school do not work in life... I know a lot of men who are healthier at age 50 than they have ever been before, because a lot of their fear is gone."
~Robert Bly, Iron John: A Book About Men

When I first approached Iron John: A Book About Men it was a slap across the face - I, like possibly all men who read it, read it in isolation. But such a baptism of fire for my ego wasn't wasted, because it reinforced all the more the need for men like me - all men actually - to be connected with, and encouraged and empowered by other men - particularly older men.

The lessons contained in this book about men are as confronting as they are eternal.

THE PROBLEM HIGHLIGHTED BY IRON JOHN

Industrialisation, amongst other Western ideas, including modern approaches to war, has meant that boys have been separated from their fathers psychologically.

This has caused boys to grow up fearful, angry and submissive, confused as to what manhood truly looks like. It may have been typical for boys and young men to have received more of their fathers' temper than his teaching; after all, the workplace has isolated boys from their fathers and the father may be far too tired at the end of a long workday to do what fathers should do.

But fathers, alone, cannot progress their boys through the process to manhood. Other men need to be involved. The communal model, based on the rites of passage schema, an initiatory model, is used. This is where indigenous cultures - for instance, aboriginal culture - are far more effective in traversing a boy toward manhood.

A big part of the problem, also, is society's view of men.

Men are typically to be ridiculed and not trusted, and our media supports these views. All of these negative stereotypes do - and they have been around for nearly 100 years - is make men feel even more isolated than they already are. And without connection to other men, men become lonely, depressed and angry.

IRON JOHN IS ABOUT MALE INITIATION

Perhaps it's a concept lost in our culture, but a very good reason why tribal cultures seem to have strong (read "safe") male identity is they take care to ensure their young males are initiated into manhood.

This process typically takes place about 12 years of age.

What can seem abhorrent in our culture - the initiation of boys - is a psychologically sound process. Boys becoming men (yes, at age 12) learn to connect with their Inner King - the inner warrior. And although Iron John is not a biblical text, it does line-up within a biblical frame - indeed, in biblical times such initiatory practices, including the involvement of the community in the development of the child into adulthood, would have been crucial.

When boys are initiated into manhood by other older men - not their father - they develop their emotional intelligence within a male frame. Other older men become for these younger men the "male mother." And the male mother it is that teaches the young man how to relate emotionally with his world.

The result is he is less angry and less timid; he is able to grieve; he is able to be honest with himself and others; he is therefore trusted and respected. He experiences less fear.

When a boy is shown how to connect with his Inner King he has access to courage, humility, and a safe sense of himself. This is a thing many young men these days struggle to connect with. Indeed, we may find ourselves reeling at the prospect.

But there is hope through narratives like Iron John.

WHAT IRON JOHN IS REALLY TELLING US

It seems clear to us that women are relational beings. Why is it so that men aren't? This is a critical question. If men are connected with their emotions they have no problem relating with other men. But if men are disconnected emotionally they distance themselves from the relational realm; they do not connect with themselves or others very well. The increasing sense of isolation damages them.

The challenge ahead, especially for us somewhat disconnected men, is to get connected.

Through connection, and through sharing life, our experiences, our sinfulness, our experiences of guilt and shame, we become liberated - just as God wishes us to be liberated.

As we share our lives we get to discover we are not that different from other men. This encourages us. We gather strength in our unity.

When we are liberated we become better leaders in our families; we are happier because we are fulfilling our roles; we are more courageous and more truthful; we have far less to lose when we realise that other men have the same burdens as us; confusion and anger and resentment become more and more battles won - and we don't need to return there so much.

The key in being men is being connected authentically with other men.

Key Reference: Robert Bly, Iron John: A Book About Men (Boston, Massachusetts: Addison-Wesley, 1990).

Steve Wickham is a Registered Safety Practitioner (BSc, FSIA, RSP[Australia]) and a qualified, unordained Christian minister (GradDipBib&Min). Steve writes at: epitemnein-epitomic.blogspot.com.au/ and tribework.blogspot.com.au. Providing quality mens health and fitness and wellness reviews online.

Penis Size and Shape, What Is Normal and What Is Not

Just like every part of the body, the penis is unique. It comes in all shapes, sizes and colors, and can be the source of either a man's pride or his embarrassment. While many men everywhere feel some degree of angst over their penis shape and size, it is important to know what is normal and healthy, and what is not. With good nutrition, penis specific vitamins, regular washing, and good self-care, a penis should remain healthy and functional throughout a man's life.

Size

Over the years different studies have concluded different findings when investigating the size of the average male erect penis. According to The Kinsey Institute, the average male erect penis is anywhere from 5" to 6.5" in length and 4" to 5" in circumference. Neither foot size, hand size nor flaccid penis size is directly related to the eventual size of the erect penis. Throughout puberty the male organ continues to grow in size, until the age of 20. For men who wish to increase the size of their penis, there is no way of doing so except for surgical procedures. While cosmetic surgery on the shape and size of the penis has improved significantly over the years, at least one study published inEuropean Urology in 2006 suggests that only 35% of men who undergo these surgeries are happy with the results.

Shape

The penis can bend and curve in any possible direction, and while the majority of penises will point slightly upward, many also can point downwards, forwards or to the side slightly. If a man's penis is slightly curved from day one it is perfectly normal and shouldn't affect the health or function of the organ. However, if your penis shape begins to change after the age of 15, it may be a sign of a underlying problem. Peyronie's Disease is a condition that can cause an increase in penis curvature, bumps on the shaft of the penis, an "hourglass" like look to the shape of the penis, and/or pain during erection. It occurs in nearly 20% of men and may be the result of physical trauma or injury to the penis, though researchers are still not clear on this. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor as soon as possible.

Skin Color

Some men wonder why the skin on their penis is a different color than the rest of their body. Though the color of the penis will directly relate to a man's race, it is normal for the penis foreskin to be darker in color than the rest of the body due to higher melanin content. Beneath the foreskin, the shaft and glans of the penis are usually much lighter. Following circumcision, it will appear as though the penis has two different colors, revealing where the foreskin was removed. With nearly half of all men in North America being circumcised, having a multi-colored penis is quite common. However any change in the color of the skin can be the first sign of cancerous leanings. Cancer growths on the penis can appear as red scaly patches, blue-brown spots, or a rash. Be sure to have any changes to the normal skin color of your penis checked out by a doctor immediately.

Advice and Care

No matter what a man's organ looks like, there are many options available to men to help them support the health of their penis. Studies how that nutrition, masturbation, frequent and careful washing, and penis health crèmes all play their role in self-care. Wash your penis every day with gentle soap, and avoid using deodorants or chemical products which may irritate the sensitive skin of the penis. Use penis specific formulas for male organ health (most health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) to moisturize your penis following washing. Natural crèmes containing shea butter, vitamins, minerals and amino acids will promote the integrity of the skin, protect nerve function, and improve the sensitivity of the penis.

For additional information on most common men's health issues, tips on improving male organ sensitivity, and what to do to maintain a healthy manhood, visit: penishealth101.com. John Dugan is a professional writer who specialized in men's health issues and contributes feature articles and blogs to numerous publications. Providing quality mens health and fitness and wellness reviews online.