It seems like I have some kind of illness?
Doctor, I've noticed some white discharge around the corona of my glans that wasn't there before.
Over the past few days, I've found this white substance after using the restroom.
I've been washing it, but a few hours later, it reappears.
I've been maintaining cleanliness, but now it feels like there are some sores in that area which weren't there before.
My foreskin isn't as sensitive as it used to be, and now it feels slightly swollen.
What could I have, and how can I treat it? It's been four or five days, and it doesn't seem to be improving.
My penis isn't painful, just occasionally itchy.
Xiao Long Er, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/03/06
Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: If you have had sexual intercourse (especially unprotected sex), seek medical attention promptly for examination.
If you have not engaged in sexual activity, it is recommended to keep the area clean and dry (make sure to dry off if it becomes moist); otherwise, some conditions may worsen.
If you are still concerned, go to the hospital for treatment.
Thank you for your inquiry.
(Do not take over-the-counter medications.)
Reply Date: 2017/03/06
More Info
Based on the symptoms you've described, it appears that you may be experiencing a condition related to the urogenital system, potentially involving a form of balanitis or a mild infection. The presence of white discharge, sensitivity, and a feeling of irritation around the glans (the head of the penis) can indicate several possible issues.
Possible Causes
1. Balanitis: This is an inflammation of the glans penis, which can be caused by poor hygiene, infections (bacterial or fungal), or irritants such as soaps or lotions. The white discharge you are noticing could be smegma, a combination of dead skin cells and oils, which can accumulate if proper hygiene is not maintained.
2. Yeast Infection: A yeast infection, particularly caused by Candida species, can lead to similar symptoms, including itching, irritation, and a white discharge. This is more common in individuals who are uncircumcised, as the moist environment under the foreskin can promote yeast growth.
3. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Some STIs can present with discharge and irritation. While you mentioned that you have a single partner and had sexual activity about a month ago, it is still important to consider this possibility, especially if there has been any change in your partner's health status.
4. Contact Dermatitis: This can occur due to irritation from soaps, detergents, or other products that come into contact with the genital area. If you have recently changed any products you use for hygiene, this could be a contributing factor.
Recommended Actions
1. Maintain Hygiene: Continue to keep the area clean and dry. Gently wash the area with mild soap and water, and ensure that you rinse thoroughly to avoid any soap residue.
2. Avoid Irritants: Refrain from using scented soaps, lotions, or any products that could irritate the area. If you suspect a product may be causing irritation, discontinue its use.
3. Over-the-Counter Treatments: If you suspect a yeast infection, antifungal creams available over the counter may help alleviate symptoms. However, if the symptoms persist or worsen, it is crucial to seek medical advice.
4. Consult a Urologist: Given that your symptoms have persisted for several days without improvement, it is advisable to consult a urologist. They can perform a thorough examination, possibly including a urinalysis or swab of the discharge, to determine the exact cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment.
5. Avoid Sexual Activity: Until you have been evaluated by a healthcare professional, it may be wise to abstain from sexual activity to prevent potential transmission of any infection and to avoid further irritation.
Conclusion
While the symptoms you are experiencing can be concerning, many conditions affecting the genital area are treatable with proper medical intervention. It is essential to address these symptoms promptly to avoid complications and ensure a swift recovery. Remember, self-diagnosis can often lead to unnecessary anxiety or inappropriate treatment, so professional evaluation is always the best course of action.
Similar Q&A
Understanding Clear White Discharge: Causes and Concerns
Hello, doctor. For the past two days, I've noticed a slight secretion of a clear, whitish fluid from the urethral opening. There is no pain, itching, or redness on the penis. I do not have difficulty urinating or increased frequency of urination. What could this symptom indi...
Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: There is no pain, itching, or redness in the penis. Urination is normal without any difficulty or frequency—therefore, there are no abnormalities. The urethral opening may secrete a small amount of clear to slightly cloudy fluid—this is likely normal. Engaging in unprotect...[Read More] Understanding Clear White Discharge: Causes and Concerns
Understanding White Discharge from the Glans: Causes and Concerns
Initially, a small clinic diagnosed frequent urination as a urinary tract infection (UTI), but after a week of medication, there was no improvement. Later, at a larger hospital, urine tests showed no bacteria. However, two days later, there were red rashes on the glans with white...
Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: If you have engaged in unprotected sexual activity, it is advisable to inform your physician during your follow-up visit for appropriate examination. Your conditions (balanitis and urinary tract infection) may be related to sexual activity. Practice safe sex, and also pay ...[Read More] Understanding White Discharge from the Glans: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Urethral Discharge: Causes and Management Tips
Hello, I previously had a urinary tract infection, and after treatment and medication, I recovered. However, recently I've noticed some white discharge occasionally when I squeeze. I don't experience pain when using the restroom, but after DIY activities, I feel a sligh...
Dr. Jian Weihong reply Urology
Hello: If the urine test is normal, it may not be a typical infection, and there could be a possibility of prostate fluid involvement. If it is white rather than clear, it is still recommended to consult a urologist at the hospital. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Understanding Urethral Discharge: Causes and Management Tips
Persistent White-Yellow Discharge from Penis: Causes and Urgent Care
Hello doctor, I just noticed in the past two days that my genital area has been continuously discharging a yellowish-white fluid. It reappears shortly after I wipe it away. Previously, I experienced a slight burning sensation in the urethra while urinating, which improved somewha...
Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology
It sounds a bit like gonorrhea; you should go to the hospital for an injection as soon as possible! Oral medications may not be effective.[Read More] Persistent White-Yellow Discharge from Penis: Causes and Urgent Care
Related FAQ
(Urology)
Chlamydia(Urology)
Itching(Urology)
Infection(Urology)
Cystitis(Urology)
Prostatitis(Urology)
Urinary Incontinence(Urology)
Trichomoniasis(Urology)
Gonorrhea(Urology)
Defecation(Urology)