Penis Infections – Common Symptoms of STIs

Men often get alarmed when things seem a little off downstairs, and for good reason. Penis health is an essential component of overall physical well-being and quality of life. A number of problems can afflict the penis over the years, from minor surface irritations that heal up on their own to penis infections that require treatment. It’s important for men to know the signs of serious problems so that they may seek out treatment early, limiting damage to their favorite organ. The following five symptoms may indicate sexually-transmitted penis infections:

1) Itching within the urethra
2) Burning upon urination
3) Abnormal discharge from the urethra
4) Soft, flat bumps on and around the penis
5) One or more hard, round sores on the penis

If a man has any of the above symptoms, he should seek out diagnosis and treatment from a medical professional. The sections below explain which types of sexually-transmitted penis infections cause these symptoms.

Itching, Burning and Discharge
The first three symptoms - itching within the urethra, burning upon urination and abnormal discharge - indicate three types of sexually-transmitted infections (STIs) as potential sources. Two of them are bacterial: chlamydia (caused by Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria) and gonorrhea (caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacteria). The third type of STI indicated by these symptoms is trichomoniasis, which is caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. Trichomoniasis is only symptomatic in about 30% of infected individuals.

Treatment of these three penis infections requires antibiotic medication. Men are susceptible to these diseases if they have unprotected sex with infected partners. Transmission is less likely, but still possible, even when men practice safe sex with someone infected.

Bumps on the Penis
Soft, flat bumps on and around the penis may indicate genital warts. These are caused by a form of the human papilloma virus (HPV). Bumps often form in clusters, and they may itch.

Genital warts spread easily through skin-to-skin contact. In some cases, a man’s body is capable of fighting off the virus that causes warts; when this happens, the warts go away without treatment. There are several treatment methods for warts, including:

- Surgery (cutting them off)
- Electrocauterization (burning them off)
- Cryotherapy (freezing them off)
- Medicated Creams

Not all penis bumps are caused by warts. Men should seek out professional diagnosis to determine whether or not HPV is the source.

Sores on the Penis 
One or more hard, round sores on the penis may indicate syphilis, a serious STI that requires treatment as soon as possible. Caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum, this infection can, if, left untreated, result in devastating consequences including dementia, blindness, paralysis, deafness and even death.

However, men need not panic if they catch the infection in the early stage, at which point it is treatable. Men who have been infected for less than one year can usually take care of it with a single dose of penicillin. Alternative antibiotics are available for men who are allergic to penicillin.
Due to the seriousness of this STI, it’s imperative for men to seek out diagnosis whenever a sore or sore-like mark is detected on the penis.

Taking care of the penis requires safe sexual practices to reduce or eliminate a man’s risk of the above penis infections. In addition to safe sex - and, of course, proper hygiene - men can keep their members happy and healthy by using a penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) that provides hydration, cell repair and optimal blood flow. Look for a crème that contains vitamins E, C and D along with nutrients like acetyl L-carnitine and alpha lipoic acid for a well-rounded boost in overall penis health.

Penis Pain and UTI – Causes, Solutions and Prevention

Urinary tract infections (UTI) are the second most common type of infection in humans. While they are more common in women, men can also develop UTI. Because a UTI can cause considerable penis pain, as well as other, more serious complications, understanding what can cause it – as well as how to avoid it – is important to maintaining overall penis health.

What is a UTI? A urinary tract infection is a bacterial infection occurring in any part of the urinary system, usually caused by the e. Coli bacterium. Both men and women can be affected; while they occur more frequently in women, they are generally more serious in men. The common symptoms of UTI in men include:

• Penis pain and/or a burning sensation during urination;
• Frequent and urgent need to urinate;
• Cloudy or dark-colored urine;
• A strong, unpleasant smell to the urine;
• Rectal pain;
• Abdominal pain and/or body aches and pains;
• Fever.

Common causes of UTI in men

Some of the most common causes of urinary tract infections in male patients are as follows:

1. Poor hygiene. As mentioned above, most urinary tract infections are caused by e. Coli, which is found in human feces. Neglecting personal care practices such as regular bathing and laundering of the clothing can allow the introduction of bacteria into the urethral opening of the penis.
2. Sexual intercourse. During sex, men may come in contact with bacteria from a partner’s body, especially during anal penetration. Barrier protection should always be used during sex to limit exposure to the bacteria, as well as to avoid spreading other sexually transmitted diseases.
3. Diabetes. Men (and women) who have diabetes have a much greater risk of developing frequent infections, as high levels of blood glucose can irritate and damage the urethral tract.
4. Spermicides. Chemical spermicides used as birth control can cause skin irritation, which increases the risk of bacterial infections.
5. Condom use. Using a condom increases the friction during sexual intercourse, leading to irritation. However, condoms should still be used, as the potential for passing on a sexually transmitted infection is a greater concern.
6. Catheter use. Men who use bladder catheters to assist with urination (often used for men with an enlarged prostate who have difficulty emptying the bladder) run the risk of introducing bacteria into the urethral tract.

Treatment and prevention of urinary tract infections in men.

If left untreated, UTI can progress to the kidneys and cause serious complications, so men who develop symptoms should waste no time in making an appointment with a doctor. Most urinary tract infections can be resolved through use of prescription antibiotics. Men should be sure to take the full course of antibiotics, even if they feel better before using all of the prescribed medication. Otherwise, the bacteria may not be fully eliminated and the infection may return.

As far as preventing UTI, doctors recommend the following:

• Drinking plenty of water – at least 8 glasses per day.
• Urinating immediately following sex – the flow of urine may help to remove any bacteria present around the urethral opening.
• Keeping the penis clean – men who are uncircumcised should be especially careful about cleaning underneath the foreskin.
• Avoiding caffeine and alcohol, which can irritated the bladder.
• Avoiding spraying any deodorants or fragrances in the genital area.
• Taking showers instead of baths.
• Wearing loose-fitting, cotton underwear.
• Avoiding holding urine for long periods of time.

Adding a penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) to the personal care routine may also help reduce the risk of urinary tract infections. A quality formula should contain high-end moisturizers and emollients that soften the skin and prevent dryness and cracking, which encourage the presence of bacteria on the skin. Products that are enriched with immune-boosting vitamin C, as well as antibacterial vitamin A, may also provide an extra layer of protection, as well as leaving the penile skin supple, healthy and youthful in appearance.

Does Frequent Masturbation Cause Weak Erections? What the Experts Say

One of the most common questions that sexual health professionals hear from younger men is: Does frequent masturbation cause weak erections? Many boys are told by parents or other authority figures who want to discourage this practice that masturbating is unhealthy, and men then experience a sense of shame or guilt about what is, in fact, a normal and healthy practice. There are many causes of weak erections not related to masturbation. This article discusses the physical and emotional factors that can affect penis health and cause erectile loss.

As Dr. Shaun Thompson of livestrong.com explains, getting an erection involves a complex series of interactions between the mind, the central and peripheral nervous systems, the hormones, the blood vessels and the smooth muscle tissue of the penis. A disruption in any part of this process can lead to erectile problems, meaning there are a number of factors to consider when seeking the source.
Some of the most common causes of erectile loss, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, are:

1) Cardiovascular disease. Numerous heart and circulatory problems can lead to loss of function in men, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, atherosclerosis (clogged blood vessels) and heart disease. Taking care of the heart by eating right and exercising can reduce the chances of experiencing erectile loss.

2) Neurological issues. Diseases of the nervous system, such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s or multiple sclerosis, can interfere with erectile function. Patients who have suffered a stroke may also be affected.

3)Hormonal problems. Getting an erection is highly dependent on testosterone levels; men who have low testosterone tend to have problems with penile function. High levels of prolactin and high or low levels of thyroid hormone can also cause erectile loss.
 
4) Diabetes. Diabetes is a systemic disease that affects many bodily functions, including erectile ability. According to the National Kidney and Urological Diseases Information Clearing House, 35 to 50 percent of men with diabetes also have erectile dysfunction (ED).

5) Substances. Aside from the physiological problems that can lead to erectile loss, various substances, including tobacco, alcohol and certain recreational substances, can inhibit function. Medications such as those used to treat anxiety and depression are also associated with ED.

6) Psychological problems. Up to 20 percent of all cases of erectile loss, and approximately 40 percent of cases in younger men, are related to psychological rather than physiological problems. Anxiety, stress, relationship problems and guilt or shame associated with sexual issues can cause loss of function. Men who are worried about loss of function may experience ED simply because of this anxiety, leading to a self-fulfilling prophecy.

When it comes to masturbation and erectile loss, there is no evidence at all that there is any link between the two. In some cases, men who have ejaculated recently may have temporarily lowered testosterone levels, resulting in weaker erections if they attempt masturbation again within a short period of time. However, as the body recovers from the previous ejaculation, testosterone levels will be restored, and erections should return to normal.

For men who experience weak erections or have difficulty achieving and maintaining an erection more than 25 percent of the time, it is important to talk to a doctor and address any underlying health issues that may be present. But for men who simply enjoy their alone time, there is no need to worry about permanent loss of function. Masturbation is a normal and healthy practice that can relieve stress and help men to become more familiar with their own bodies, making them better sexual partners. In fact, using the organ frequently can even help it stay strong and last long into old age.

Men who masturbate frequently can improve the overall health of the member by adding a penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) to their daily personal care routine. A product with a high-end emollient such as Shea butter can relieve sore, chafed penile skin, while vitamins and amino acids support healthy cellular function for a penis that is supple, responsive and ready for action, whether a man is spending time alone or with a partner.

Penile Cancer Prevention – Lifestyle Choices for Better Penis Health

Penile cancer is thankfully rare, but it can and does affect a small number of men every year. Therefore, it is important to understand the risk factors that can increase a man’s chances of developing this potentially deadly disease. The issues that are most commonly linked with penile cancer are described below, along with the appropriate penis care and lifestyle choices that can help men reduce the risk of developing cancerous tumors.

1) Human papilloma virus. Men who have been exposed to human papilloma virus (HPV), a contagious disease that can cause genital warts, are at greater risk for developing penile cancer later in life. To avoid exposure to the virus, vaccination against HPV is strongly urged by many health care professionals. Only men who receive the vaccine before the age of 26 are protected, and it is best to have boys vaccinated in their early teens, before they become sexually active. At the very least, all men should use barrier protection for every sexual encounter to limit their risk of exposure.

2) Smoking. Smoking tobacco products exposes the body to numerous cancer-causing chemicals. These can affect all parts of the body, not just the mouth and lungs; quitting smoking is critical in preventing many different health problems, including cancer of the penis.

3) Smegma. The cheesy substance that tends to accumulate underneath the foreskin of an uncircumcised penis can cause irritation and inflammation if it is not regularly removed. This inflammation is known as balanitis, a condition which has been linked to a greater risk of penile cancer. Men who are uncircumcised should carefully clean the smegma from under the foreskin every day using warm water and a mild cleanser. The foreskin should never be forced back, however, so if there is any difficulty retracting it, this should be brought to the attention of a doctor.

4) Uncircumcision. Men who are not circumcised, particularly in developing countries, have a greater chance of developing cancerous tumors. However, while circumcision may reduce the risk in some men, maintaining adequate hygiene may be preferred; circumcision should not be taken lightly and is a matter to be considered carefully by a man and his doctor.

5) Phimosis. Men who have had issues with phimosis, where the foreskin is difficult to roll back over the head of the penis, may have a greater risk of penile cancer. Frequent occurrences of phimosis may warrant full or partial circumcision to prevent ongoing problems with penile health.

6) Psoriasis treatment. Individuals who suffer from psoriasis are sometimes treated with UV rays, as well as various medications. UV treatments, like exposure to the sun, can increase the risk for cancer. Men who have psoriasis on their penile skin may want to discuss alternative types of treatment with their doctor.

Unfortunately, there are no guarantees when it comes to cancer, and even men who are careful about their overall health may still be at risk. Therefore, regular inspection of the penile skin for any signs of changes that could indicate cancer is necessary. Men should closely examine their penis skin for any unusual spots, bumps or lesions. Successful treatment of cancer depends largely on early detection, so men should waste no time in having these evaluated by a doctor. As an added measure, many men choose to use a penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) to provide nutrient support for the penile tissue. A formula that is enriched with antioxidants like vitamins C and E is a good choice, as these elements can help fight the free radicals that can cause the cellular damage that may lead to cancer.

Avoiding Foreskin Problems through Proper Care of the Uncircumcised Penis

The foreskin is a double layer of tissue made up of smooth muscle, mucus membranes, skin, nerves and blood vessels. It covers the penis in uncircumcised men and provides a layer of protection for the glans. Because it contains a large number of nerve cells, the foreskin can be very sensitive and provide a great deal of pleasure. On the other hand, when foreskin problems occur, they can be quite painful, and in some cases, they can cause lasting damage to the penis. By practicing appropriate penis care on a regular basis, men can avoid most of the issues described here.

1) Swelling after masturbation. Boys and men who are uncircumcised often report swelling after masturbation. This generally occurs due to an excessively tight grip and/or aggressive movements; the foreskin may remain swollen for several hours afterward and may or may not be sore to the touch. The swelling will typically recede on its own; applying a cool compress (not ice) to the area may help reduce the swelling and relieve any discomfort. Men can avoid this issue by using a personal lubricant during masturbation and easing up on the grip.

2) Smegma. This refers to the whitish, pasty substance that may accumulate underneath the foreskin. It is made up of sloughed-off dead skin cells, natural oils from the body, and other fluids. Smegma is not harmful in itself, but it does attract bacteria that can emit a very unpleasant odor; the presence of bacteria may increase the risk of inflammation in the area. Smegma should be removed during cleansing.

3) Balanitis. This inflammatory condition is characterized by a red, itchy rash, swelling of the foreskin, a whitish or yellow discharge, and discomfort or pain. Balanitis is typically caused by poor hygiene; men who do not clean well underneath the foreskin are more likely to have frequent problems with balanitis. Proper cleansing is important to maintaining overall penile health. Uncircumcised men should gently - never forcibly - roll back the foreskin to wash underneath, making sure to dry the glans carefully before replacing the sheath.

4) Phimosis. This condition is diagnosed in boys and men who are unable to retract the foreskin fully over the head of the penis. With a normal uncircumcised penis, the foreskin is fully attached to the glans at birth; the adhesions that hold it in place wear away during childhood, and most boys are able to retract the foreskin by their late teens. In men who have previously been able to roll back the foreskin, this problem is referred to as pathological phimosis; it is often caused by scarring due to frequent balanitis. Cortisone creams are often used for treating phimosis, but men should always talk to their doctor rather than attempting self-treatment.

5) Paraphimosis. When the foreskin is retracted (usually during an erection or sex) and becomes trapped behind the head, this is known as paraphimosis. It is generally caused by an injury resulting in swelling. If not treated, the swollen foreskin can cut off the blood flow to the head of the penis, which can cause tissue death. Paraphimosis should be treated as a medical emergency. Treatment involves reducing the swelling, either through application of ice packs or injection of medication. Circumcision may be necessary in some cases.

Men who develop foreskin issues like these should consult with a doctor as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment. Most of these problems can be avoided by keeping the entire penis clean, using a condom for every sexual encounter, and exercising care when handling the foreskin. Applying a penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) on a daily basis can also help maintain a healthy foreskin by providing nutrient support, as well as keeping the foreskin supple, elastic and well-moisturized.

Unusual Sex Problems – 7 Eyebrow-Raising Penis Conditions

Most guys think about penis care in terms of using protection, keeping it clean, and getting regular checkups; as long as they follow these steps, they are generally confident that the rest will take care of itself. But after reading about these 7 unusual sex problems, men may never look at the penis the same way again, or take their good health for granted.

1. Priapism. By now, everyone has heard the caution about seeking medical attention for an erection lasting longer than four hours. This condition, known as priapism, truly is a medical emergency; it is caused when blood becomes trapped inside the penis, usually as the result of an injury or due to certain medications. Priapism is not the result of sexual stimulation, so it is much less fun than it sounds. Surgery is usually needed to correct the problem; failure to treat it promptly can result in permanent damage to the penile tissue.

2. Hypersexuality. This condition is classified as a mental health disorder; it occurs when a person – male or female – has a hyperactive sex drive, leaving them wanting sex virtually all the time. Hypersexuality is a serious problem that can lead to obsessive, risky behaviors; it can occur along with other mental health condition such as bipolar disorder. Mood stabilizers, medications that lower testosterone levels, and talk therapy may be used to treat this issue.

3. Sexsomnia. This highly unusual condition is diagnosed when people have sex in their sleep, without any awareness of the act. Similar to sleepwalking, sexsomnia may include masturbation or even sex with another person; people have actually been known to leave their own beds, enter the homes of strangers and have sex with them while they were sleeping. Sexsomnia can be triggered by stress, sleep deprivation or sleep apnea; treating the underlying condition is necessary to stop the behavior.

4. Asexuality. This condition can occur in both men and women; asexuality refers to the complete lack of desire for sex. Different than impotence, asexual individuals have normally functioning bodies and have the ability to perform; they simply don’t care to do it. Some asexuals may have romantic relationships and even marry, and they may have sex as, in essence, a favor to the person they are with. Others feel a sense of revulsion toward the act. Currently, there is no known treatment – and those who experience it may simply see no need for one.

5. Paraphilia. Also known as fetishism, paraphilia entails the inability to be sexually gratified without a particular item or act. Most instances of paraphilia involve some extreme behaviors and can be damaging, even leading an individual to harm others. Paraphilia may be treated with medications such as those used to treat ADHD.

6. Micropenis. As the name implies, this condition refers to a very, very small penis – under 2 inches when erect. Micropenis may occur as a result of a growth hormone deficiency. It may be treated using hormone therapy if it is detected in childhood, but typically the penis will still be much smaller than average. Men with micropenis generally do not have any luck with penis enlargement techniques.

7. Diphalia. This highly unusual condition refers to individuals who are born with two penises, which may or may not be functional. Fewer than 100 cases have been reported; men with this condition often have other defects in the spine or pelvic area.

Fortunately, most men will never have to deal with problems like these; and they can also avoid many of the more common problems that affect penile health by using protection, exercising good hygiene, and adding a penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) to their personal care routine. A formula that is rich in vitamins and amino acids, as well as high-end emollients, can promote healthy, supple, responsive skin in men of all ages.

Spots on the Penis – Possible Causes and How They Are Treated

Spots on the penis are not always a sign of a serious condition, but they can be. Understanding what causes them and how they are treated can help men make informed decisions about their penis health. The conditions listed below are just some of the common causes. Men who develop penile rash, ulcers, or spots should see their doctor for evaluation and treatment.

1) Pimples. Acne spots can occur anywhere on the body, and unfortunately, not even the penis is immune. Pimples appear as raised bumps on the skin that may be red or flesh-colored; they are often filled with pus. The best treatment for pimples on the penis is to leave them alone; popping or squeezing them can make the problem worse, and medications intended for use on the face are generally too harsh for the penile skin. Most pimples clear up on their own in a few days.

2) Molluscum contagiousum. Thisbenign viral condition can cause raised, firm red spots to appear anywhere on the body. When they occur on the genitals, molluscum contagiosum is considered a sexually transmitted disease, as the virus can be easily passed to a partner during intimate contact. There is no cure for the virus, but it usually clears up on its own - although this can take a year or more. Doctors may be able to remove the lesions through an outpatient procedure.

3) Petechiae. Petechia appear as pinpoint red spots under the skin. They are caused by broken capillaries underneath the skin’s surface, usually as a result of friction. On the penis, use of vacuum pumps has been shown to cause petechiae. These spots typically resolve on their own.

4) Inflamed follicles. Inflamed or infected hair follicles can appear as raised, red spots; these usually occur around the base of the penis or anywhere else that hair grows. As with pimples, it is best to leave these alone rather than try to squeeze them. Maintaining good hygiene and keeping the skin well-moisturized can speed the healing process and help prevent them from coming back.

5) Herpes sores . A single blister or ulcer on the penis, especially located on the head, can be a sign of genital herpes. This sexually transmitted infection does not have a cure, and men who have it will need to take medications throughout their lives to keep it under control. Herpes can be transmitted to a sexual partner even when there are no visible symptoms. Men who are infected should talk to their doctor about how to avoid spreading the disease.

6) Thrush. This fungal infection is caused by candida yeast, which is also responsible for feminine yeast infection. It can produce a red, itchy rash, dry skin, and a whitish, lumpy discharge. Antifungal creams are needed to clear up a yeast infection.

7) Balanitis. This inflammatory condition mainly affects uncircumcised men. It is characterized by a red rash on the glans and under the foreskin, swelling, redness and soreness. While it is bacterial in origin, treatment is focused on keeping the area clean and free of smegma.

8) Jock itch. Another fungal infection, jock itch mainly appears as a red, spreading, itchy rash in the groin area; in some cases, it may also spread onto the penis. Antifungal creams are used to treat this condition. Men can reduce their chances of infection by wearing clean clothing, avoiding the sharing of towels and other personal items, and keeping the area clean and dry.

9) Eczema. Also known as dermatitis, eczema can appear as a raised, red, itchy rash. Most men who have eczema on the penis have it on other parts of their bodies, as well. Treatment may involve the use of cortisone creams; applying a high-end moisturizer before using a cortisone product can help relieve the itch and speed healing.

Men should never attempt to self-diagnose any penis condition, as many different types of problems have similar symptoms, and some conditions can be serious. However, every man can take steps to reduce his chances of infection by using protection during sex, maintaining good hygiene, and scheduling regular checkups with a doctor. Men may also choose to supplement their personal care regimen with a high-end penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) that contains essential vitamins, amino acids and antioxidants that are important to the overall health of the penile skin.