Abdelrahman
Common Sexual Injuries Revealed by ER Doctors
Emergency room physicians have shared with DailyMail.com the frequent types of sexual injuries they encounter. They noted that it is predominantly men who seek treatment, particularly those aged between 20 and 40 years. Remarkably, many patients delay their visit to the ER, waiting several hours or even days before seeking care, which the doctors strongly discourage, emphasizing the importance of prompt treatment.
Dr. Barry Hahn, an emergency medicine specialist based in New York, pointed out that “most injuries we encounter are related to men, particularly involving the penile area, where blood vessels can rupture, leading to deformation and swelling.”
Dr. Darris Gillespie from Georgia added that any sexual position aside from missionary may pose a risk for penile injuries. Notably, the reverse cowgirl position—where one partner is on top facing away from the other—was highlighted by doctors as particularly risky for the partner on the bottom.
Furthermore, while sexual devices can add excitement, they can also result in infections or serious complications if not used safely. Inserting foreign objects into the body carries considerable risks, and here are some of the most prevalent injuries associated with sexual activities, in no specific order:
1. Penile Fracture
Both doctors identified penile fractures, commonly referred to as “cracked penis”, as a frequent reason for ER visits. This injury occurs due to bending or significant trauma, which can break internal blood vessels and lead to swelling and discoloration.
Dr. Gillespie clarified that while there are no bones in the penis, there is a considerable amount of spongy tissue that can sustain damage. “This tissue engorges with blood during arousal; however, it can also experience tears,” he noted. Dr. Hahn emphasized the seriousness of this injury, stating it is one of the most common arising from sexual activities. Patients often report hearing a popping sound followed by swelling, loss of erection, and potential bleeding. Treatment typically involves surgical repair, and the recovery period can last several weeks.
2. Trapped Penile Ring
A penile ring, often used as a sexual aid to sustain an erection, can become stuck if blood flow is restricted. According to Dr. Gillespie, if the issue is not resolved quickly, the penis could suffer from irreversible damage due to oxygen deprivation. Treatment generally involves carefully cutting off the ring to prevent further harm.
3. Vaginal Bruising
Injuries are not limited to men; women can also experience cuts or bruises to the vagina during sexual activities. Dr. Gillespie explained that insufficient lubrication or the use of devices can lead to these injuries. She cautioned that significant tears can result in heavy bleeding. For minor injuries, doctors usually allow natural healing, but more severe lacerations may require stitches.
4. Insertion of Foreign Objects
Another common injury involves patients arriving with various objects lodged in their rectums. These incidents often occur during attempts to enhance pleasure via unconventional methods. Doctors have encountered various items, from bottles to more dangerous objects like glass. Removing these objects can necessitate surgical intervention, particularly for hazardous materials.
5. Heart Problems During Sex
Every year, around 805,000 Americans experience heart attacks, and some of these incidents are reported to occur during sexual intercourse. Dr. Gillespie recounted instances of patients suffering heart attacks during sex, sometimes leading to serious complications. Physical intimacy can increase heart rate significantly, presenting risks especially for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions. Prompt recognition of symptoms, such as sudden chest pain, is crucial.
Conclusion
These revelations from ER doctors underline the importance of safe sexual practices. Awareness of potential risks and seeking immediate medical attention when needed can help prevent serious complications and ensure sexual health remains a priority.
