Prepuce Issues: Symptoms, Treatments, and Concerns

Q: Prepuce Issues: Symptoms, Treatments, and Concerns

Hello： The glans and foreskin are prone to inflammation due to their warm and moist environment, making balanitis easily recurrent. <br>It's important to maintain cleanliness and dryness. <br>If there is redness, it often indicates a recurrence. <br>You can rinse the white discha

Foreskin issues

(1) A few months ago, I had an infection of the glans and foreskin, and I received topical treatment.
The condition improved while using the medication, but it recurred after finishing the treatment.
I have used many tubes of ointment, and my doctor has also changed my medication, but my symptoms do not include itching or pain.
Typically, after cleaning or masturbating, the foreskin becomes red and swollen.
When I clean and retract the foreskin, it feels a bit sticky, and there is white skin adhering to the glans.
The urethral opening also appears slightly swollen.
(2) There is a small bump next to the frenulum of the penis, which sometimes appears pink and other times white.
When I touch it, I can feel some granules, but it does not hurt or itch.
This bump developed 1 to 2 months after the glans and foreskin infection.
I have not engaged in sexual intercourse, but I do masturbate.

Hǎo dān xīn, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/07/10

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: The glans and foreskin are prone to inflammation due to their warm and moist environment, making balanitis easily recurrent.
It's important to maintain cleanliness and dryness.
If there is redness, it often indicates a recurrence.
You can rinse the white discharge with water, but avoid scrubbing too hard.
If there is redness, refrain from using soap or body wash for the time being.
If you have a foreskin, it's better to dry off with tissue after urination.
This will help it heal faster.
If there is no sexual activity, the secretion of sebaceous material is usually not a concern, as long as there is no redness.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2017/07/10

More Info

When it comes to prepuce issues, particularly those related to balanitis (inflammation of the glans), it’s essential to understand the symptoms, potential treatments, and any concerns that may arise. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing recurrent symptoms after an initial infection, which can be frustrating and concerning.

Symptoms
From your account, the symptoms you are experiencing include:
1. Redness and Swelling: After cleaning or masturbation, you notice that the foreskin becomes red and swollen.

2. Sticky Residue: You mention a sticky feeling when you retract the foreskin, along with a white substance adhering to the glans.

3. Urethral Swelling: You also observe some swelling at the urethral opening.

4. Small Bump: A small bump near the frenulum that changes color and has a granular texture but is not painful or itchy.

Understanding Balanitis
Balanitis can be caused by several factors, including:
- Infections: Fungal infections (like Candida), bacterial infections, or sexually transmitted infections can lead to balanitis.

- Poor Hygiene: Inadequate cleaning under the foreskin can lead to the accumulation of smegma, which can irritate the skin.

- Skin Conditions: Conditions like eczema or psoriasis can also cause inflammation.

- Allergic Reactions: Sometimes, reactions to soaps, lotions, or other products can cause irritation.

Treatment Options
1. Topical Treatments: It sounds like you have been using topical medications, which can be effective. However, if the symptoms return after stopping the medication, it may indicate that the underlying cause has not been fully addressed. It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s advice regarding medication changes and to ensure you are using the right type of treatment for your specific condition.

2. Improved Hygiene: Regular and gentle cleaning of the area is essential. Ensure that you retract the foreskin and clean underneath with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh soaps or products that can irritate the skin.

3. Avoid Irritants: If you suspect that certain products may be causing irritation, try to eliminate them from your routine. This includes soaps, lotions, or even certain fabrics.

4. Consult a Specialist: If the symptoms persist despite treatment, it may be beneficial to consult a urologist or dermatologist who specializes in genital skin conditions. They can provide a more thorough examination and may suggest alternative treatments, including potential biopsies if there is concern about the small bump.

Concerns Regarding the Bump
The small bump you described could be a variety of things, including:
- Pearly Penile Papules: These are small, harmless bumps that can appear on the penis and are normal anatomical variations.

- Fordyce Spots: These are small, painless, pale bumps that are sebaceous glands and are also normal.

- Other Conditions: While less common, other conditions could cause similar symptoms, so it’s essential to have it evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Conclusion
In summary, it’s crucial to maintain good hygiene and follow up with your healthcare provider regarding your treatment plan. If symptoms persist or worsen, seeking a specialist's opinion is advisable. Remember, while it’s natural to feel concerned about changes in your body, many conditions are manageable with the right approach and care. Always communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and any changes you notice.

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