Penis Fracture

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

A penis fracture happens when an erect penis is injured. The penis has 2 chambers that fill with blood to cause an erection. A fracture happens when the chambers are filled with blood and the penis is bent suddenly or with too much force. The bend ruptures the outer lining of one chamber, called the tunica albuginea. A penis fracture usually happens during sex. It can also happen if you fall or roll onto your erect penis or hit it on something. It is important to seek immediate care for this injury. Without treatment, a penis fracture can lead to permanent damage.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Return to the emergency department if:

You see new or more blood in your urine.
You are not able to urinate, or you urinate very little.
You have new or worsening pain in your penis or genital area.
You think you fractured your penis.

Call your doctor or urologist if:

You have trouble getting or keeping an erection after you are told it is okay to have sex.
You have pain that does not get better even with pain medicine.
You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Medicines:

You may need any of the following:

Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask how much to take and how often to take it. Follow directions. Read the labels of all other medicines you are using to see if they also contain acetaminophen, or ask your doctor or pharmacist. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.
NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
Prescription pain medicine may be given. Ask your healthcare provider how to take this medicine safely. Some prescription pain medicines contain acetaminophen. Do not take other medicines that contain acetaminophen without talking to your healthcare provider. Too much acetaminophen may cause liver damage. Prescription pain medicine may cause constipation. Ask your healthcare provider how to prevent or treat constipation.
Medicines may be given to help you control an erection. Medicines may be used to help prevent an erection until the fracture has healed. After the fracture has healed, other medicines may be given to help you get or keep an erection.
Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.

Manage or prevent a penis fracture:

The following are some things you can do at home to be more comfortable and prevent more injury. You will still need treatment such as surgery to heal the injury. Talk to your healthcare provider before you try any of the following:

Apply an ice pack to your penis, if directed. Ice helps relieve or prevent pain and swelling. Cover the pack with a towel before you apply it to your penis. Apply the ice pack for 10 to 15 minutes every hour, or as directed.
Wrap your penis or use a splint, if directed. Your provider will tell you if this may help. The provider will tell you what to use and show you how to apply the wrap or splint. Ask how long to use the wrap or splint each day.
A Foley catheter may be needed. A Foley catheter is a sterile tube that is inserted into your bladder to drain urine. The tip of the catheter has a small balloon filled with solution that holds the catheter in your bladder.
Avoid sexual activity until your provider says it is okay. Your provider can tell you when it is safe for you to start having sex again. The provider can also tell you which sexual activities are okay for you to do.
Be careful during any activity that can lead to a penis fracture. Do not suddenly or forcefully bend your erect penis on purpose. Try to be careful during sexual intercourse or masturbation.

Follow up with your doctor or urologist as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

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