Dear skgrl04,

There are no bones in the penis, so it's not possible to break the penis the same way someone would break an arm or a leg.

However, in rare instances, it is possible to "break" or seriously fracture an erect penis. During an erection, blood flows into the penis through erectile tissue called the corpus cavernosa, which becomes rigid when the blood fills it. If an erect penis is struck very hard, it's possible to fracture this tissue. If a fracture occurs, a man might hear a popping or cracking sound, and will most likely experience excruciating pain and bruising. It's very important to get to an emergency room to be treated by a urologist as soon as possible if this happens.

Some mild fractures may resolve without surgery, but most urologists prefer to operate in order to reduce the risk of scar tissue and impotence that may often result.

Because these injuries do not affect the testes, where sperm is produced and stored, they do not affect fertility, but they may make it impossible for a man to have intercourse.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.