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Genital asymmetry in men
1Clarke Institute of Psychiatry, Toronto, Canada.
Human Reproduction (Oxford, England)
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Most men exhibit genital asymmetry, often to the left, in penile and scrotal development. This pattern is less pronounced in non-right-handers, suggesting links to cerebral asymmetry.
Area of Science:
- Human Sexuality
- Anthropometry
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Genital asymmetry is a common observation in human males.
- Previous research has explored potential links between genital asymmetry and other biological factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and patterns of penile and scrotal asymmetry in a large male cohort.
- To examine the relationship between genital asymmetry and handedness.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of interview data from 6544 men collected by the Kinsey Institute (1938-1963).
- Inclusion of four indicators of penile and scrotal asymmetry.
- Inclusion of self-reported handedness data.
Main Results:
- A majority of men reported lateral asymmetry in flaccid penis and testicles; less asymmetry was noted in erect penis.
- Leftward asymmetry was the predominant pattern for both right- and non-right-handers.
- The leftward asymmetry pattern was significantly less pronounced in non-right-handers.
Conclusions:
- Genital asymmetry is prevalent in men and shows a leftward tendency.
- Handedness influences the pattern of genital asymmetry, suggesting a connection to cerebral lateralization.
- Further research is warranted to explore the implications of genital asymmetry for cognitive function and health outcomes.