Sex Talk: Can smoking affect the size of my erection?

Dr Tlaleng Mofokeng answers your sex questions

Q: I heard a rumour that smoking affects a man's performance, is it true?

A: Smoking is one of the most common causes of impotence and possibly erection size. In one study, researchers found that smokers' penises are significantly smaller than those of nonsmokers.

In addition to damaging blood vessels, smoking may cause damage to penile tissue itself, making it less elastic and preventing it from stretching.

A man who smokes has twice the risk of erectile dysfunction than one who does not smoke. Men who smoke also have low sperm counts. So, yes, smoking does affect sex!

• Dr Tlaleng Mofokeng (MBChB), sexual and reproductive health practice, DISA Clinic, 011-886-2286, visit safersex.co.za

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