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Penile Stretching and Traction Therapy: From Ancient Practices to Modern Benefits

Learn the historical and cultural evolution of penile and foreskin stretching practices

This week’s Yourology with Dr. Malik:

Penile Stretching and Traction Therapy: From Ancient Practices to Modern Benefits

Learn the historical and cultural evolution of penile and foreskin stretching practices.

Welcome to Yourology with Dr. Malik – your weekly prescription for the latest medical updates, valuable insights, and freshest highlights straight from the frontlines of medicine!

RESEARCH HIGHLIGHT:

In this study, the researchers reviewed historical and cultural practices related to penile and foreskin stretching, noting their persistence and evolution over time. These practices, aimed at enhancing penile size and appearance, have been observed across various cultures and historical periods.

Historical and Cultural Practices

  • Tribal Cultures: Ancient tribes, including Polynesians and certain African and Indian groups, used devices and weight-hanging methods for penile stretching. Polynesians employed plant-fiber devices similar to Chinese finger traps, while others used weights.

  • Ancient Rome and Greece: Roman and Greek texts describe foreskin stretching techniques. Methods included herbal remedies and mechanical stretching devices such as the kynodesme, a leather thong used to elongate the prepuce.

  • Ancient India: Texts like the Kama Sutra and Sushruta Samhita describe methods for penile and foreskin stretching. Techniques included rubbing the penis with insect bristles and oils to induce swelling and stretching the prepuce to treat conditions like parivartiká, a retroflexion of the prepuce.

Modern Applications and Devices

  • Jelqing: This technique, believed to originate from ancient Sudanese practices, involves manually stroking the penis in a semi-erect state to increase size. Despite its popularity in online forums, there is no robust clinical evidence supporting its effectiveness, and it can actually cause irreversible damage to the penis.

  • Vacuum and Traction Devices: Modern devices, such as vacuum pumps and traction devices, have been developed since the mid-20th century. These devices aim to increase penile length by applying consistent traction or enhancing blood flow.

Social Media Influence

  • Online Platforms: Forums like Reddit have become popular sources of advice on penile lengthening. Discussions on forums such as “r/penissize” and “r/jelq” often feature anecdotal and unverified information.

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Q&A WITH DR. MALIK:

A Question from a subscriber: “Are there any long term effects following a vasectomy? Such as ejaculate volume. How does the body react or respond to not letting sperm pass. What happens long term.

Answer:

A vasectomy is a highly effective and permanent form of male contraception that involves cutting or sealing the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the urethra. After the procedure, your testicles continue to produce sperm, but since the sperm can no longer travel through the vas deferens, they are naturally reabsorbed by the body - this is totally safe. In terms of ejaculation, sperm only makes up about 2-5% of the total semen volume so after a vasectomy, the overall volume of your ejaculate remains virtually the same. Long term over 99% of people have no issues after a vasectomy. A small subset of men <1% can develop chronic scrotal pain from the surgery. Also, I would be remiss if I didn't explain that a vasectomy does not affect your sexual function. Your testosterone levels, libido, ability to achieve erections, and orgasm sensation all remain unchanged. Many men even report feeling less anxiety about unintended pregnancy, which can enhance their sexual experiences.

Every week, Dr. Malik will answer a question from one of our subscribers. If you have a question you'd like Dr. Malik to answer, submit it here for a chance to be featured!

WHAT’S NEW WITH DR. MALIK?:

Just got back from Vancouver, BC, Canada. What a beautiful city. Loved the diversity and the walkability. I even ran into a fan who took a picture with me!

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE CHANNEL:

Is Fadogia Agrestis Really the Key to Boosting Testosterone?

In our newest podcast episode, Dr. Malik explored the scientific evidence behind Fadogia Agrestis and its potential impact on testosterone levels. Here's a sneak peek into what you'll learn:

What Exactly is Fadogia Agrestis?

  • Discover the origins of this African plant and its traditional uses in herbal medicine.

The Science Behind the Hype

  • Learn about the compounds in Fadogia Agrestis that may influence testosterone production and the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis.

Research Insights

  • Hear about the current state of scientific research, including animal studies that show promising, yet cautious, results.

Human Studies?

  • Understand the lack of peer-reviewed human studies and why anecdotal evidence isn’t enough for definitive conclusions.

Safety and Risks

  • Get crucial insights into potential organ toxicity and why it's essential to approach testosterone-boosting supplements with skepticism.

If you're considering ways to optimize your hormone health, this episode is a must-listen!

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE PODCAST:

Want a Longer Penis? Here's What Science Says! | Urologist Explains

In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Malik breaks down the science and myths surrounding penile length enhancement methods. Whether you've been curious about surgical options, noninvasive techniques, or the influence of a healthy lifestyle, this episode has got you covered. Here are some key takeaways:

1. Vacuum Erection Devices: Studies have shown no significant increase in penile length after 6 months of use. Dr. Malik does not recommend these devices for length enhancement.

2. Hormones and Supplements: There is no data supporting the use of Testosterone, HCG, or FSH for increasing penile length after puberty.

3. Surgical Options:

  • Suspensory Ligament Incision: Can increase flaccid length by about 1.4 cm but comes with stability risks and potential for erectile dysfunction.

  • Penile Silicone Sleeve Implant: Shows promising results in length and girth but entails major risks, including infection and implant flaring.

  • Fat Grafting/Dermal Grafts: Offers temporary increase in girth; however, issues like uneven distribution and graft reabsorption are prevalent.

4. Noninvasive Options:

  • Penile Extenders/Traction Devices: Require time commitment and show an increase of 1-2 cm in length with prolonged use.

  • Hyaluronic Acid Fillers: Generally used for girth enhancement and last for 18-24 months.

5. Healthy Lifestyle: Emphasizing an unprocessed diet, regular exercise, and mental health can contribute to overall well-being and potentially affect penile length.

6. Psychological Aspects: Small penis anxiety is a real mental health condition that many men face. Dr. Malik advises discussing these concerns with a mental health professional.

7. Free Methods: Weight loss, grooming pubic hair, and reducing anxiety can help with the perception of penile length.

Dr. Malik reiterates that no magic pills or elixirs can elongate the penis, underscoring the importance of investing in one’s overall health.

If you or someone you know is contemplating penile length enhancement, make sure to tune into this episode for reliable, science-backed advice. Don’t forget to subscribe to Dr. Malik's YouTube channel for more information and leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platforms!

Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or here!

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Yours Truly,

Rena Malik, M.D