Causes of Penis Pain – A Guide to Common Male Problems

Nothing gets a man’s attention like penis pain. Even the most stoic or stubborn of men who would normally shrug off aches, pains and discomfort will seek help for aching or pain in the package. While some conditions that lead to uncomfortable penis symptoms are directly related to the manhood, others have more indirect causes. Understanding these and knowing what to look for can help men to narrow down the possibilities and help their doctors to pinpoint the exact cause, leading to more accurate treatment and better penis health. While the following list is not comprehensive, some of the more common sources of penis pain are described here.

Balanitis – Balanitis simply refers to any inflammation of the glans penis (or head of the penis). Symptoms may include swelling, redness, soreness, tearing of the foreskin, toughening of the penis skin, and loss of elasticity of the foreskin. Balanitis can be caused by a wide range of issues. Fungal, viral and bacterial infections are prominent causes, as are eczema, psoriasis, and lichen sclerosis. Certain sexually transmitted infections can also cause inflammation of the glans. Treatment depends on the cause, so a check by a doctor is needed to pinpoint the exact source of the pain. Hygiene also plays an important role here, so keeping it clean is key to avoiding unpleasant symptoms.

Balanitis xerotica obliterans – This dermatological condition is characterized by pain, swelling, aching, and in some cases, difficulty retracting the foreskin. White patches or lumps may appear on the shaft, and some men may experience a ring of toughened dermal tissue around the tip of the penis. Erectile issues may accompany this condition. The precise cause of this problem are not known; however, hormones, genetics and autoimmunity may play a role. Treating this problem can be difficult, as no consistently effective solution has been found. Some patients benefit from steroid creams, and in other instances, laser therapy may be recommended. Men with related symptoms should consult with a trained urologist to develop a treatment plan.

Inguinal hernia – This condition occurs when part of the intestines protrude through the walls of the abdomen, usually in the groin area. Symptoms may include lumps, bumps, abdominal pain, and aching penis, as well as intestinal blockages. Treatment generally involves a surgical procedure.

Sexually transmitted infections – Any number of STIs can cause pain in the penis, as well as itching, burning, an unpleasant discharge, fluid-filled sores and painful urination. Men with any of these symptoms should abstain from sex until the condition has been properly diagnosed by a doctor; any sexually active individuals should be tested regularly for communicable disease.

Daily penis care

Men who are experiencing sharp penis pain, chronic aching, or pain following an injury should seek immediate medical attention. In any case, penis pain that does not go away or is severe should be diagnosed by a qualified medical professional.

However, even healthy men can benefit from the right attention to penis care, and making hygiene and nutrition a priority can help to prevent many common problems that can lead to pain and discomfort.

Washing regularly and removing any built-up material (smegma) from underneath the foreskin is a step that cannot be missed. Drinking an adequate amount of fluids, eating right, getting plenty of rest and exercising are all important to every aspect of a man’s health, including nerve and circulatory function – both important to a healthy and happy penis.

Men who want to make the most of penis sensation, keep the skin looking youthful, and prevent surface injuries may consider purchasing a quality penis health formula  (most health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) which contains penis-specific nutrients targeting skin, nerve and circulatory health. A crème that contains natural moisturizers such as Shea butter can help to reduce the effects of chafing, rubbing and other minor skin damage that may lead to ongoing penis pain, as well as keeping the skin touchably soft and smooth.