Brake rupture is not a serious incident, but it can be very impressive because of the blood loss that can occur. Under what circumstances can this happen? How should you react?
What are brakes and what are they used for?
At the tip of the penis is a very sensitive area, the glans, which is covered by skin (the foreskin). During erection, the glans is uncovered, revealing a part on the inside of the glans that connects the foreskin to the base of the glans: the frenulum. This triangular mucous fold allows the foreskin to move up to cover the glans when the penis is not erect. The frenulum is also used in cases of premature ejaculation, where it is recommended to pinch the frenulum to delay ejaculation and lengthen the duration of the erection (squeezing).
A more or less deep tear
Don’t be fooled by the ominous term “rupture”: in most cases, it’s a tear of varying depth. In some rare cases, however, the brake may rupture completely, i.e. separate into 2 pieces. It’s still not enough to break the penis.
Although the injury is not serious, the bleeding can be impressive. In particular, the arteriole of the frenulum may be affected if the tear is sudden. Conversely, in the case of progressive rupture, the skin is damaged, the tissue becomes fibrous and the frenulum tears without bleeding.
What to do in the event of a brake rupture?
The first thing to do is stay calm. Even if the bleeding is severe and the timing rather inopportune, the injury is slight. Stop the bleeding by firmly compressing the glans with a clean handkerchief or towel. Once the bleeding has stopped, you can clean the area with soap and water if that’s the best you have. Otherwise, use a disinfectant such as betadine.
Be careful not to use alcohol, as the pain may be intense. If the bleeding persists, you’ll need to go to the emergency room to have a stitch put in. But in most cases this is not necessary.
In the days that follow, the application of a healing cream is recommended. Afterwards, it’s best to consult a urologist to prevent another incident of this kind. The brake may well remain too short after healing. If the urologist observes retractile scarring, he or she may suggest that the patient undergo a brake plasty. This is a benign operation performed under local anaesthetic to stretch the frenulum.
After a brake rupture, you will be asked to abstain for 3 to 4 weeks. This is the time needed for perfect healing. However, the problem may leave the patient feeling apprehensive about returning to sexual activity. In this case, it’s a good idea to start by masturbating, to see for yourself that there’s no pain or discomfort, and that you can resume normal activity.
It’s also a good idea to discuss the matter with your partner. This will enable both of you to resume progressive activity without fear of another episode. Brake rupture will then be a thing of the past.
