Effective Care Strategies for Post-Intimate Skin Irritation and Inflammation

Q: Effective Care Strategies for Post-Intimate Skin Irritation and Inflammation

Hello： For wounds, there are no other methods besides keeping the area clean and dry. <br>Since there is a possibility of moisture after urination, it is important to dry or absorb the area. <br>Moist wounds are less likely to heal, and any pus must be removed. <br>Additionally,

Balanitis and Phimosis

After several intense sexual encounters with my girlfriend, I noticed white discharge the next day.
I used iodine solution, which helped, but I found some cracks on the frenulum and foreskin.
I went to see a dermatologist, who prescribed a transparent ointment, but it worsened the condition.
I developed wounds in the coronal sulcus of the glans, with one area ulcerated and some skin breakdown on the foreskin.
I then consulted a urologist, who, after blood and urine tests, said everything was fine and prescribed herpes ointment and betamethasone.
After two weeks of applying the ointment, the coronal sulcus healed, but I developed erythema on the foreskin, with intermittent burning during urination.
I returned to the dermatologist, who advised me to stop using the herpes ointment and switch to his prescribed ointment.
However, the erythema on the foreskin eventually broke down and became very painful.
I then visited another urologist in Banqiao, who suggested keeping the area dry and not applying any ointment.
The doctor recommended washing the area daily and drying the wound with tissue every hour.
After a little over a week, it improved, but I experienced significant pain during washing and drying, along with yellow discharge.
Fearing that the previous herpes ointment and betamethasone would have healed it faster, I applied them again, but the next day the wound became more severely eroded and discharged yellow pus.
I continued to keep the area dry and switched to saline solution and cotton to clean the wound.
Cleaning was less painful and showed slight improvement, but recovery has been slow.
When I asked the doctor, he insisted on drying the pus on the foreskin wound every hour without using saline solution.
It has been nearly two months, and I really don't know what to do.
What is the correct method for care? Is there a way to heal faster? Please help me; I would be very grateful.

Ni Ge, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/01/20

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: For wounds, there are no other methods besides keeping the area clean and dry.
Since there is a possibility of moisture after urination, it is important to dry or absorb the area.
Moist wounds are less likely to heal, and any pus must be removed.
Additionally, maintain a normal lifestyle, ensure adequate sleep, and avoid spicy, irritating, or alcoholic foods.
If there is a wound on the genital area, sexual activity should be avoided to prevent further injury.
The key is to keep the wound clean and dry.
If the wound is significant, try to avoid exposing it to water (especially unclean bath water).
You can use clean saline solution and a sterile cotton swab to gently dry the area.
Theoretically, the genital area should heal within two weeks.
If it does not improve, further investigation for other causes is necessary.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2018/01/20

More Info

Post-intimate skin irritation and inflammation can be quite distressing, especially when it leads to complications such as fissures, ulcers, and secondary infections. Based on your description, it seems you have been through a series of treatments and consultations with various specialists, which is commendable. However, the persistence of symptoms indicates that a more tailored approach to your care may be necessary.

Understanding the Condition
The irritation and inflammation you are experiencing could be due to several factors, including friction during intercourse, sensitivity to products used (like lubricants or soaps), or even an underlying infection. The presence of white discharge and subsequent ulceration suggests that there may have been an initial irritation that progressed due to either continued friction or secondary infection.

Effective Care Strategies
1. Gentle Cleansing: It is crucial to maintain proper hygiene without causing further irritation. Use a mild, unscented soap and warm water to clean the area. Avoid harsh soaps or products with fragrances, as these can exacerbate irritation.

2. Drying Techniques: After cleansing, gently pat the area dry with a soft towel. Avoid rubbing, as this can worsen irritation. If advised by your healthcare provider, using sterile gauze or a clean cloth to absorb moisture can be beneficial.

3. Avoid Irritants: Refrain from using any topical medications or ointments that have not been specifically prescribed for your condition. This includes over-the-counter creams that may contain steroids or other active ingredients that could further irritate the skin.

4. Moisturization: If your skin is dry, consider using a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free moisturizer. This can help soothe the skin and prevent further cracking. However, ensure that it does not contain any ingredients that could irritate the area.

5. Avoid Sexual Activity: Until the area has fully healed, it is advisable to abstain from sexual activity. This will prevent further irritation and allow the skin to recover.

6. Follow-Up with Specialists: Since you have seen multiple specialists, it may be beneficial to return to a dermatologist or urologist who can assess the healing process. They may recommend a different treatment plan or perform tests to rule out any underlying infections that may not have been addressed.

7. Pain Management: If you are experiencing pain, over-the-counter pain relief medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage discomfort. However, consult with your doctor before taking any new medications.

8. Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you are well-hydrated and consuming a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals that support skin health, such as vitamins A, C, and E, as well as zinc.

9. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep a close eye on your symptoms. If you notice any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge, seek medical attention promptly.

Conclusion
Healing from skin irritation and inflammation, especially in sensitive areas, can take time. It is essential to be patient and follow a consistent care routine. If symptoms persist or worsen, do not hesitate to seek further medical advice. Your health and comfort are paramount, and a tailored approach to your care will yield the best results. Remember, open communication with your healthcare providers about your symptoms and concerns is key to finding an effective treatment plan.

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