peenises

Penises are the external male reproductive organs found in humans and many other mammals. The plural form is penises; peenises is a nonstandard spelling occasionally encountered in informal writing.

The penis consists of three cylindrical bodies of erectile tissue: two corpora cavernosa on the dorsal side and one corpus spongiosum surrounding the urethra. The glans forms the head, and the root includes the bulb and the crura. Most individuals have a foreskin (prepuce) covering the glans, though some are circumcised.

During arousal, smooth muscle relaxes and blood fills the erectile tissues, producing an erection that enables intercourse. The urethra runs through the corpus spongiosum and serves for urination and ejaculation. Sensation is mediated by nerves such as the dorsal nerve of the penis.

The penis develops from the embryonic genital tubercle and reaches its adult form under hormonal influence at puberty. There is wide natural variation in size and shape, and erect length commonly ranges about 12–16 cm, though individual measurements vary.

Common medical issues include phimosis (tight foreskin) and balanitis (inflammation of the glans). More serious conditions include Peyronie’s disease (bent penis), priapism (prolonged erection), and penile cancer, which is rare. Regular hygiene and medical evaluation for persistent pain or changes are recommended.