Winter Penis

Winter Penis: Your Shrinking Snow-manhood

Written by: Dr. Brian Steixner

What is Winter Penis?

Did you know that your penis can shrink up to 50% during the winter? Yes, you read that correctly. As if daylight savings wasn’t bad enough, now we have to worry about losing half our length? As the temperature drops, your member recedes into your body to keep warm, restricting blood flow. Here at Popstar, we call this phenomenon Winter Penis. Winter Penis affects men of all ages and not only impacts length but it can also inhibit a man’s ability to get an erection. So what can be done about it? Popstar is here to help combat this frosty phenomenon.

Bundle Your Bulge

So, how can you keep your phallus defrosted? First, bundle your bulge! Staying warm this winter is crucial to thwarting seasonal shrinkage. Thermal underwear may not scream “sexy,” but neither does an awkward conversation in the bedroom. Next, consider keeping a cozy pre-coitus environment: fuzzy blankets, light a fire, and, of course, keep the thermostat set to a sensible 69. Since Winter Penis affects circulation, hydration is key.

Spring Has Sprung

Fear not, snowmen. Even the coldest of winters eventually give way to spring. After a long, not-so-hard winter, spring will have you sprung again! For some people dealing with winter-related erectile dysfunction, the issue tends to melt away like the snow, just in time to heat things up for the warmer months ahead. If you don’t like the idea of your penis hibernating like Yogi Bear, you can always consult your primary care physician about potentially prescribing something for erectile dysfunction to get you through the winter.

Winter Penis

Other Winter Activities that Affect Your Wiener

Speaking of winter! There are two ways to enjoy the colder months: getting out there and braving the tundra or staying in with a cup of cocoa. While some want to hit the slopes, others may be taking advantage of the lodge’s hot tub. Winter activities, both indoor and outdoor, can affect your sexual performance. These are a few things to keep in mind about your pecker when participating in winter activities.

Jacuzzis and Family Jewels

Nothing feels better after a long day on the slopes, like a dip in the hot tub. With the right company and rising temps, other things may rise too. If you a looking to have a soak and poke, keep these are a few things to keep in mind.


If you plan on using a condom, remember that temperatures over 104 degrees Fahrenheit combined with chlorine and other chemicals can cause breakage, making them ineffective. It is also important to note that you will need to put your condom on outside the water. With all the hassle, other forms of contraceptives might be better suited for hot tub sex.


Just like condoms may not be compatible with hot water, some lubes might not be either. Silicone-based lubes like our Popstar Play are great for making a sexual splash due to their water-resistant and long-lasting properties. Silicone-based lubricants won’t wash away as easily as their water-based counterparts.


Another great rule of thumb when taking a dip, sexual or otherwise, is to be mindful of how long you are in the tub. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures impairs sperm production and motility, potentially leading to decreased fertility. If fertility is at the top of your mind, and you start to prune, it’s time to get out of the tub. To learn more about hot tub sex, check out our full guide here.

Steamy Shower

If you don’t want to boil your balls like hard-boiled eggs, a steamy shower is also a great alternative for warming up. Perhaps the only thing better than a steaming hot shower is a steaming hot shower with company. If hot tubs aren’t your thing, shower sex can be equally as fun! Though shower sex is risqué, it can also be risky. Just like hot tub sex, shower sex also requires the right condom and lube combo. For more tips and tricks on bathroom play, check out our squeaky-clean guide to shower sex. While shower sex may take some tact, the risk is worth the reward. Not only will you climax, but you’ll conserve water by showering with someone!


Remember, Winter Penis may be a cold reality, but with a little effort and a lot of blankets, you can turn those frosty nights into fiery ones. Stay warm, stay confident, and remember—spring is always just around the corner.

Dr. Brian Steixner

Dr. Brian Steixner

Dr. Brian Steixner is a board-certified urologist and an expert in men’s sexual medicine. He completed his General Surgery and Urology training at The University of Pennsylvania and The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, one of the busiest and most comprehensive programs in the nation. During his career, Brian has treated thousands of men with sexual health issues including male factor infertility.

Dr. Joshua Gonzalez

Dr. Joshua Gonzalez

Dr. Joshua Gonzalez is a board-certified urologist who is fellowship-trained in Sexual Medicine and specializes in the management of male and female sexual dysfunctions. He completed his medical education at Columbia University and his urological residency at the Mount Sinai Medical Center. Throughout his career, Dr. Gonzalez has focused on advocating for sexual health and providing improved healthcare to the LGBTQ+ community.