Why Does the Glans of the Penis Turn Purple?
In fact, a healthy glans penis should be pink or dark red. A purple glans penis may be caused by poor blood circulation, balanitis, and other reasons, which require timely treatment. Here are some possible causes:
1. Poor Blood Circulation
The color of a male's glans penis is naturally pink or dark red, and a healthy penis color is indicative of good health. A purple glans penis suggests poor blood circulation in the penis. Many men with excessive foreskin length are prone to experiencing purple discoloration of the glans penis. When the foreskin opening is too small, it can become stuck in the sulcus of the glans penis, causing blood circulation to be blocked. Over time, this can lead to purple discoloration of the penis and, in severe cases, necrosis of the penis.
2. Balanitis
In addition to poor blood circulation, another possible cause of purple discoloration of the male glans penis is inflammation, such as balanitis. Balanitis is a common condition that can affect the glans penis and genital organs. Clinically, symptoms of balanitis include mild erythema of the glans penis, white cheesy patches on the inner foreskin and sulcus of the glans penis, and small, reddish papules on the glans penis. If the inflammation affects the outer foreskin and scrotum, scaly erythema may be visible. Purple discoloration of the glans penis is also a common symptom of balanitis, and patients should be vigilant.
Generally speaking, the glans penis of a male should not turn purple. However, in some men with phimosis, prolonged blood blockage can lead to purple discoloration and necrosis of the penis, which is the most severe scenario.