Redness and Itching in the Penis and Scrotum: Causes and Concerns

Q: Redness and Itching in the Penis and Scrotum: Causes and Concerns

Hello： Infection and allergies are both possible, or it could be a combination of both. <br>The swelling may be due to an allergy, but the spots could indicate an infection. <br>It is important to keep the skin dry and avoid any broken skin. <br>If there is broken skin, swelling

Redness, swelling, and itching of the penis and scrotum?

On October 6th, I had sexual intercourse, including oral sex and manual stimulation without a condom, but I used a condom during penetration.
Everything seemed fine until the morning of October 8th when I noticed some itching.
By 5 PM that day, when I went to the bathroom, I discovered that my foreskin was completely red, swollen, and had rashes, along with itching on my scrotum.
I immediately went to see a doctor, and that evening after the visit, the swelling of the foreskin increased.
The doctor prescribed oral medications (Keflex 500mg, Transamin 250mg, FUCOLE PARAN TABLE) and a topical cream (QUADRICREM CREAM).

After a day (on October 9th), the swelling of the foreskin has significantly reduced, but there are still red spots and rashes present.
There are small bumps on the glans corona, and now the scrotum is more swollen and itchy, while the itching of the penis has decreased.

Could this be a sexually transmitted infection? I'm really anxious! Although the doctor mentioned it might be an infection due to an unclean environment, it's not completely impossible...
P.S.
I found online that it could also be an allergy to the spermicide in the condom or to the lubricant (which was used during manual stimulation).

Wei, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/10/09

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: Infection and allergies are both possible, or it could be a combination of both.
The swelling may be due to an allergy, but the spots could indicate an infection.
It is important to keep the skin dry and avoid any broken skin.
If there is broken skin, swelling or hardness of the testicles, tenderness, or fever, these are not good signs and you should seek medical attention immediately.
Wishing you good health.
As for sexually transmitted infections, they typically present with urethral discharge; other STIs do not usually show symptoms this quickly.

Reply Date: 2019/10/09

More Info

The symptoms you are experiencing, including redness, swelling, and itching in the penis and scrotum, can be concerning and understandably cause anxiety, especially after engaging in sexual activities. Based on your description, there are several potential causes for these symptoms, and it’s important to consider them carefully.

1. Infection: The symptoms you describe could be indicative of a sexually transmitted infection (STI), particularly if you had unprotected oral sex or if there was any risk of exposure to pathogens. Common STIs that can cause similar symptoms include herpes, gonorrhea, and chlamydia. However, given that you mentioned the doctor suggested it might be an infection due to an unclean environment, it could also be a case of balanitis (inflammation of the glans penis) or a yeast infection, which can occur in both men and women.

2. Allergic Reaction: As you noted, it is possible that you are experiencing an allergic reaction to the materials used during sexual activity. This could include the latex in condoms or the chemicals in lubricants. Allergic reactions can manifest as redness, swelling, and itching, and they can occur even if you have used these products before without issue. If the symptoms improve after discontinuing use of these products, it may confirm an allergy.

3. Irritation: Sometimes, friction during sexual activity can lead to irritation of the skin, especially if there is insufficient lubrication. This can cause redness and discomfort. If you have sensitive skin, this could be exacerbated by the use of certain products.

4. Dermatological Conditions: Conditions such as eczema or psoriasis can also cause similar symptoms in the genital area. These conditions can flare up due to stress, changes in environment, or other triggers.

Given that you have already seen a doctor and received treatment, it is crucial to follow their advice and complete the prescribed medications. The fact that you are noticing some improvement is a positive sign. However, if the symptoms persist or worsen, it is essential to return to your healthcare provider for further evaluation. They may consider additional tests to rule out STIs or other underlying conditions.

In the meantime, here are some general recommendations to help manage your symptoms:
- Maintain Hygiene: Keep the area clean and dry. Use mild, unscented soap and avoid harsh chemicals or fragrances that could irritate the skin further.

- Avoid Irritants: If you suspect an allergy, avoid using any products that may have caused the reaction, including specific lubricants or condoms.

- Wear Loose Clothing: Opt for breathable, loose-fitting underwear to reduce friction and allow the area to heal.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, including the appearance of new lesions or changes in itching or swelling.

Lastly, it’s important to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your concerns, especially regarding the possibility of an STI. They can provide the most accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment based on a thorough examination and any necessary tests. Remember, timely medical intervention can help prevent complications and ensure a quicker recovery.

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