Some people suffer from sex problems; that’s an unfortunate fact of life. One reason guys may pay extra attention to their penis health is to avoid the development of issues that might impact their success with a potential partner. But sometimes there can be problems that are a bit beyond their control. For example, if a man is born with the condition known as Klinefelter syndrome, he is likely to experience some degree of difficulty, although the extent can vary.

Learning about Klinefelter syndrome

Harry Fitch Klinefelter was an endocrinologist who in the 1940s discovered the condition that is named after him. To understand Klinefelter syndrome, it’s necessary to know that women are born with two "X" chromosomes (XX) and men are born with one "X" and one "Y" (XY). (A chromosome is a DNA molecule carrying genetic material.)

But in some rare instances, a man may be born with both two "X" chromosome and one

Y" chromosome (XXY) - or even more rarely with more than 2 "X" chromosomes. When either of these situations occur, the man is said to have Klinefelter syndrome.

Some people assume that because the man has XXY chromosomes, that he is a hermaphrodite - someone with both a penis and a vagina. This is not the case.

Signs and symptoms

As mentioned, there can be some variation in how Klinefelter presents, but in general, these are typical signs and symptoms associated with the condition:

- They are often taller than other males.

- Often they will have either a skinny, lanky body type or a more rounded body type. In the latter case, gynecomastia (increased breast tissue) is often present.

- Muscle control and coordination are often affected.

- Their bones may be weaker than other males of their age, and they may sport less body hair.

- Often, they are either infertile or have reduced fertility.

- Typically, their testicles are significantly smaller than those of other men.

The fertility issue and the smaller size of the testicles is primarily related to the fact that men with Klinefelter syndrome typically produce much less testosterone. This is what can cause the sex problems alluded to earlier.

Sex problems

Clearly, fertility concerns count as a sex problem, especially if a man wishes to have children or is in a relationship with a partner who wishes to bear children. In addition, many men with small testicles feel self-conscious about this fact and this can create self-esteem issues that can also impede sexual performance in some men.

But lower testosterone also generally means that one’s libido is not as active as it would otherwise be. Not only can this lead to less of a desire for sex; it can also in some cases create erectile dysfunction issues.


There’s not a "cure" for Klinefelter, but some treatments are available. Typically, testosterone therapy can be useful, especially when begun during adolescence. There also have been numerous success cases of pregnancy by in vitro fertilization, using sperm taken from men with Klinefelter. Men in whom the extra breast tissue is extreme may want to consider surgical procedures if it causes them distress.

Working closely with an experienced doctor can make a big difference for many men with this condition.

Whether one has Klinefelter syndrome and sex problems or is considered typical, it still pays to spend time maintaining one’s precious penis health. One way to do this is to daily apply a top notch penis health creme (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which is clinically proven mild and safe for skin). For best results, select a crème that includes a wide range of vitamins, such as A, B5, C, D and E, all of which can benefit the penis. It also helps to find a crème with L-arginine, an amino acid which helps boost nitric oxide production and thereby keep penile blood vessels healthier.