Penis Tattoos – 4 Risks All Men Should Understand

While the thought of a penile tattoo might make most men cringe physically, there are some willing to brave the needle on their nether regions. While the process of getting a penile tattoo is no different than getting one anywhere else on your body, there are potentially serious risks involved. So while it’s always a good idea to “think before you write,” this mantra can be especially true in this scenario. In any case, men considering a penile tattoo should be aware of the risks and side effects, as well as the best methods for post-procedure penile care.

Potential Risk of Penis Tattoos

Infection: As with any tattoo, there is a risk of infection. The actual process of tattooing involves a needle piercing the skin and injecting ink into the body. The risk of infection, of course, is compounded by unsanitary conditions and dirty equipment. Tattoos of any kind should always be done by a professional in a clean environment with new, sterile needles.

Skin damage: A penis tattoo can easily cause scarring to the delicate skin and underlying connective tissue. Think of the skin on the penis compared to, say, the arm, which sits on top of a thick layer of muscle. The skin of the penis is much more fragile by nature and therefore more susceptible to scarring. People who have a history of keloid scarring in other areas of the body (scars that are abnormally raised and extend beyond the site of skin trauma) are advised not to get tattoos anywhere, especially on the penis. The act of tattooing is very likely to cause the raised scar on such people, which is not something most men want on their penis.

Permanent Erection: Also known as priaprism, the condition isn’t as fun as it sounds. Priaprism occurs when blood is physically unable to leave the penis, leading to painful engorgement and possible nerve damage if left untreated. Documented cases of penile tattoos leading to this condition are believed to be caused by a needle penetrating too deeply into the penis, creating a penile fistula. Not only is it a painful condition that interferes with one’s sex life, but it probably needs surgery to treat. While not all penis tattoos lead to priaprism, it is a very real risk, especially with a tattoo artist who has less experience tattooing that specific body part.

Nerve damage: Even if a needle slip does not cause priaprism to develop, it can still cause permanent nerve damage in the area. The penis is a veritable road map of nerve endings, and unfortunately, a little slip of the wrist could leave the tattoo wearer with nasty nerve damage.

Penis care after tattoo

There are ways to prevent or reduce the unpleasant side effects of a penile tattoo. Be sure to keep the entire area clean while it heals, and always maintain proper hygiene to reduce the risk of infection. Watch for signs of infection and seek medical attention if pain, bleeding, redness, or pain persists beyond a reasonable period of time.

The success and safety of a tattoo originates from the tattoo artist one chooses, so make sure they are reputable and have a spotlessly clean space in which they are working. Needles, of course, should never be reused to prevent the transmission of blood-borne diseases such as hepatitis and HIV/AIDS. It’s also wise to ask the artist if she has done penis tattoos in the past and ask to see photos of the work.

Once the penis has returned to its normal state, in addition to the new work of art, men should use a penis health cream that contains vital nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. (most professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) as part of your daily penis care routine. A high-quality penis health cream can also reduce scarring of the area, decrease the chance of infection, and help improve the overall health of the penis skin.