Men’s Sexual Health Terms Explained: A Clear, No-Shame Guide

Men’s Sexual Health Terms Explained: A Clear, No-Shame Guide

Understanding men’s sexual health shouldn’t feel overwhelming, awkward, or clinical. Knowledge is power—especially when it comes to your body, pleasure, and confidence. This glossary-style guide breaks down common male sexual health terms in clear, approachable language so you can better understand your health, communicate with professionals, and make informed choices about products, treatments, and wellness tools. At After Dark Treasures, we believe education is just as important as pleasure 🖤✨

🧠 Men’s Sexual Health Terminology

Alprostadil
A vasodilator medication (Prostaglandin E1) that helps increase blood flow in the penis to support erections. Often used in ED treatments such as injections or suppositories.

Andropause
Often referred to as “male menopause,” andropause describes the gradual decline in testosterone levels that can begin around age 30 and become more noticeable in the 50s. Symptoms may include reduced libido, fatigue, mood changes, and erection issues.

Angulation
The natural curve of the penis, usually noticeable during erection. Severe or painful curvature may indicate Peyronie’s disease.

Bi-mix / Tri-mix
Injectable ED therapies combining two (Bi-mix) or three (Tri-mix) medications—Papaverine, Phentolamine, and Alprostadil—to improve blood flow and erections.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
A non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate common with aging. Symptoms include frequent urination, weak urine stream, and discomfort.

Cancer (Male Reproductive)
Includes prostate, testicular, penile, and colon cancers. Treatments may affect libido, erections, and fertility.

Cholesterol
High cholesterol can restrict blood flow, increasing the risk of erectile dysfunction. Sexual health and heart health are closely linked.

Circumcision
The surgical removal of the foreskin from the penis.

Corpora Cavernosa
Two sponge-like chambers running along the length of the penis that fill with blood to create an erection.

COVID & Sexual Health
COVID-19 has been linked to temporary or ongoing sexual dysfunction, including ED, due to vascular and neurological effects.

Diabetes
Chronic high blood sugar can damage nerves and blood vessels, making ED more likely if not properly managed.

Dry Orgasms
An orgasm with little or no ejaculate, often occurring after prostate surgery or due to certain medications.

Ejaculate
Semen released from the penis during orgasm.

Endocrine System
The body’s hormone-regulating system, which controls testosterone and other sex hormones.

Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection firm enough for sexual activity. ED can be physical, psychological, or a mix of both.

Erection
When blood fills the penis, making it firm and elongated.

Fertility Testing
Evaluates sperm count, motility, and quality to assess reproductive potential.

Impotence
An outdated term for erectile dysfunction.

Penis Pump / Vacuum Pump
A device that uses suction to draw blood into the penis, helping achieve erections. Often paired with tension rings for ED support.

Phimosis
A condition where the foreskin cannot be retracted over the head of the penis.

Malleable Implant
A surgically implanted, bendable penile prosthesis used to treat severe ED.

Nitrates
Heart medications that must never be combined with ED drugs like Viagra due to dangerous blood pressure drops.

Oral Testosterone
Hormone therapy for men with clinically low testosterone levels.

Papaverine
A medication used in penile injection therapy to increase blood flow.

PDE5 Inhibitors
Medications such as sildenafil that help maintain erections by improving blood flow.

Penile Injection Therapy
Direct injection of ED medication into the penis to produce an erection.

Peripheral Vascular Disease
Poor circulation outside the heart, often contributing to ED.

Peyronie’s Disease
Scar tissue causes painful or severe penile curvature.

Phentolamine
Used in combination ED injection therapies.

Psychological Erectile Dysfunction
ED caused primarily by stress, anxiety, trauma, or mental health factors.

Priapism
A prolonged, often painful erection lasting more than four hours and requiring immediate medical care.

Prostate Gland
Produces fluid that nourishes sperm and contributes to semen.

Radiation Therapy
Cancer treatment that can affect sexual function.

Radical Prostatectomy
Surgical removal of the prostate, often affecting erections and ejaculation.

Sildenafil (Viagra®)
A well-known ED medication that increases blood flow to the penis.

Tension Rings (Cock Rings)
Placed at the base of the penis to maintain erections by slowing blood flow out.

Urethra
The tube that carries urine and semen out of the body.

Urethral Suppository
A medication inserted into the urethra to stimulate erections.

Urologist
A doctor specializing in urinary and male reproductive health.

Vasectomy
Permanent male sterilization procedure.

Yohimbine
A plant-based supplement sometimes used for mild ED, though results vary.

💭 Why This Matters
Understanding these terms empowers you to talk openly with healthcare providers, partners, and yourself. Sexual health is not separate from overall wellness—it’s deeply connected to confidence, intimacy, and quality of life.

✍️ Written By Bobby Newberry | Exclusively on After Dark Treasures
©️ Copyright 2026 After Dark Treasures, LLC.

Want deeper guides on men’s pleasure, performance, and confidence? Explore After Dark Treasures for expert education, body-safe toys, and wellness tools designed to support your sexual health—every step of the way.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.