Care of Water Turtles, Reproductive Problems (Other than Egg-Binding)

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Author: The Turtle Man

Erections in Males:  Erections of the penis, which occur most often during the mating season, may be cause for concern to the novice observer.  This condition is perfectly normal, and is most often confused with an organ prolepses (see "prolepsis").

Paraphimosis:  Occasionally, the erect penis remains fully engorged and cannot be retracted.  This condition is called paraphimosis.  Veterinary intervention is necessary in these cases to prevent permanent damage to the penis.

Penile Paralysis:  A water turtle's penis sometimes becomes paralyzed.  The cause of this condition is unknown. In such cases, the exposed and vulnerable penis may be mutilated by other turtles.  The penis can sometimes be replaced into the turtles cloaca.  Usually, however, the penis must be amputated.  This created no problems for the turtle other than the inability to copulate because this organ is not used for urination