Understanding Penis Pain - (Almost) Everything a Man Needs to Know

If any man is asked what is on his "top 5 favorite things to do" list, going to a doctor is not one of them. Furthermore, if he made a list of doctors he prefers to see, the urologist or proctologist is most certainly bringing up the rear. Even still, visiting a doctor specializing in issues of a man’s most private of parts is necessary, both for preventative reasons and when something goes wrong. Some things that all men should know about penis pain, when to go to the doctor, what to expect during the visit, and other tips to keep up penis health are discussed here.

What are some conditions that cause penis pain?

There are various conditions that can cause pain and discomfort of the junkal region. Here are a few of the more common ones:

1. Prostatitis - infection of the prostate gland
2. Bladder infection, bladder stones or urinary tract infection
3. Urethritis - inflammation of the urethra
4. Orchitis - inflammation of the testicles
5. Epididymitis - infection of the epididymis
6. Prostate Cancer
7. Phimosis - when the foreskin will not retract over the head of the penis
8. Paraphimosis - when the foreskin is stuck in the retracted position
9. Infected hair follicles
10. Priapism - persistent erection that won’t subside
11. Sexually transmitted infections like herpes, warts, gonorrhea, chlamydia, or syphilis
12. Peyronie’s disease - curvature of the penis caused by scar tissue
13. Balanitis - infection under the foreskin

When should a man go to the doctor for penis pain?

• If an erection does not go away for 4 hours or more, in the absence of physical or psychological stimulation, a man should seek immediate medical attention, as permanent damage can be done to the penis.
• If sudden pain occurs in the absence of an obvious reason -- such as taking a nut shot from a soccer ball, or a poorly executed belly flop -- and lasts for more than 4 hours, head to the doctor.
• Bleeding, oozing or discharge from the penis.
• Persistent pain during urination or ejaculation
• Penis pain with other unexplained symptoms like fever and nausea

What should a man expect during an office visit?

The doctor will take a recent medical and sexual history and perform a physical examination. In the case of a suspected sexually transmitted infection, further tests may be ordered, such as a swab or a urine screen. Be ready to answer questions about the pain, such as when it started, what makes it worse, any recent injuries and other symptoms that come along with the pain. The doc is sure to check up on recent sexual exploits too, and though it can be embarrassing, this is no time to be shy. Be sure to disclose the correct number of recent partners and be honest about risk of exposure to infection, such as through having sex with an infected partner or not using condoms. If an infection is found, the doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics or other medications to treat the problem. Other sources of pain - like priapism - may require different forms of treatment.

What steps can be taken to keep the penis healthy?

First and foremost, use a condom! Aside from total abstinence, using a condom is the best way to prevent the spread of infection. It is also important to get up close and personal with the entire southern hemisphere on a regular basis - meaning a monthly inspection should be done to keep watch for suspicious sores or lumps, which could indicate a serious problem like an STI or testicular cancer. When it comes to the penis, prevention is key, so be proactive with penis health.

Finally, step up the daily penis care routine by adding a high quality penis vitamin formula (most professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) to help keep the penis healthy and virile. A penis lotion not only hydrates the skin, but fights bacteria, promotes circulation and works to prevent penis problems like Peyronie’s disease. Simply apply daily after the morning shower and be on the way to a healthier penis.