Persistent Penile Pain: Causes, Recovery, and Treatment Options - Urology

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Penile pain


Hello, Dr.
Du: I have been experiencing penile pain for about a year.
During this time, I have had no sexual partners and have relied solely on masturbation to satisfy my sexual needs.
I do not have any special technique for masturbation (I only use my hand in a piston-like up-and-down motion).
The pain is located on the right side of the penis, from the coronal sulcus to the opening of the foreskin, and it is an internal pain rather than on the skin's surface.
The sensation is similar to a feeling of pressure, tearing, or a sharp, fragmented pain.
The pain is most pronounced after masturbation, but I also occasionally experience a dull ache at other times.
Pressing on the painful area sometimes results in soreness or a feeling of pressure.
Initially, I thought it was due to excessive force during masturbation, but after a period of relief, the pain returns upon resuming masturbation.
I have since changed my technique to gently rubbing the glans through the foreskin, which is less likely to cause pain, but it still does not resolve the issue.
I visited a doctor one month ago and two months ago, but no damage to the mucosa or other injuries or inflammation were found, so no treatment could be provided.
The doctor I saw a month ago suggested that I might be experiencing excessive masturbation, which is a warning sign from my body, and that reducing the frequency and allowing for sufficient rest would lead to recovery.
However, I have not masturbated for about a month and a half, and I still occasionally experience dull pain, with some days having increased pain, which is quite concerning.
I would like to ask the doctor: 1.
On average, how long does it typically take to recover in such cases? 2.
Are there any treatment options available for a quicker resolution? 3.
Based on my described symptoms, could there be other potential issues? 4.
Additionally, I would like to know if there is a specific medical term for this condition? (The last question is purely out of curiosity and for easier research; if this condition is too rare to have a specific name, please focus on the first three questions.) I apologize for the lengthy message and multiple questions, and I thank you in advance for your response!

Xiao Wei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/17

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology


Hello: 1) If there is an injury, it may take several months (possibly due to continuous pulling and pressure on the glans).
2) It is recommended to exercise moderately, avoid prolonged sitting or standing, and refrain from eating overly spicy foods.
3) Most likely, it is an injury, but the severity of the injury may vary.
4) There should be no specific medical terminology for this.

Reply Date: 2017/05/17

More Info


Persistent penile pain can be a distressing condition, and understanding its causes, recovery time, and treatment options is essential for effective management. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing pain localized to the right side of the penis, particularly around the coronal sulcus and the preputial opening. The pain is internal rather than superficial, and it manifests as a dull, tearing, or throbbing sensation, especially after masturbation.


1. Recovery Time
The recovery time for conditions like yours can vary significantly depending on the underlying cause. If the pain is indeed due to overuse or trauma from masturbation, resting the area is crucial. Generally, a period of 4 to 6 weeks of reduced activity is recommended to allow for healing. However, since you have already ceased masturbation for about a month and are still experiencing pain, it may indicate that the issue is more complex than just overuse.

2. Treatment Options
While there is no one-size-fits-all treatment, several options may help alleviate your symptoms:
- Rest and Avoidance: Continuing to avoid activities that exacerbate the pain is essential. This includes not only masturbation but also any activities that may put strain on the area.


- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage discomfort. If the pain persists, a healthcare provider may prescribe stronger medications or topical treatments.

- Physical Therapy: In some cases, pelvic floor physical therapy can be beneficial. A trained therapist can help you with exercises to strengthen the pelvic muscles and improve blood flow, which may alleviate pain.

- Counseling: If anxiety or psychological factors contribute to your pain, speaking with a mental health professional may provide relief.


3. Other Possible Issues
Given the chronic nature of your pain and the lack of findings during examinations, it is essential to consider other potential causes. These could include:
- Peyronie's Disease: This condition involves the development of fibrous scar tissue inside the penis, which can cause pain and curvature during erections.

- Nerve Entrapment or Neuropathy: Sometimes, nerve issues can lead to chronic pain in the genital area.

- Infection or Inflammation: Although previous examinations did not reveal any inflammation, conditions like balanitis or posthitis can cause internal pain.

- Psychogenic Pain: Chronic pain can sometimes have psychological components, where the pain persists even after physical causes have been ruled out.


4. Medical Terminology
While there may not be a specific medical term that encapsulates your exact symptoms, conditions like "chronic penile pain syndrome" or "penile hypersensitivity" might be relevant. These terms can help you in your research and discussions with healthcare providers.


Conclusion
It is crucial to follow up with a healthcare provider, especially if your symptoms persist or worsen. A urologist may provide more specialized care and potentially conduct further investigations, such as imaging studies or nerve conduction tests, to rule out other underlying conditions. Remember, open communication with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and concerns is vital for effective treatment.

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