Penile engorgement and pain?
Hello doctor, during my middle school years, I experienced frequent masturbation one day, which led to a feeling of swelling and pain in my penis the next day.
At that time, I thought resting would suffice, so I didn't see a doctor.
Now at 23 years old, I have sexual intercourse three times a week, and the swelling and pain sensation occurs.
Even more concerning, I feel this swelling and pain sensation after just one ejaculation.
However, my erectile function is normal.
What could be the cause of this?
Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/01/09
Dr. Cai Zhuorong reply Urology
Prolonged erections accompanied by a feeling of pressure or pain should prompt consideration of diagnoses such as priapism and Peyronie's disease.
Please consult a urology clinic.
Reply Date: 2020/01/09
More Info
Understanding penile pain, especially in young men, can be a complex issue that involves various physiological and psychological factors. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing discomfort or a "full" sensation in the penis after sexual activity or ejaculation. This is not uncommon, and there are several potential causes and solutions to consider.
Possible Causes of Penile Pain
1. Pelvic Congestion: After prolonged periods of sexual arousal or frequent ejaculation, blood flow to the pelvic region increases. If ejaculation does not occur frequently enough, this can lead to a sensation of fullness or discomfort, similar to muscle soreness after exercise. This is often referred to as pelvic congestion syndrome.
2. Overstimulation: Engaging in frequent sexual activity or masturbation can lead to overstimulation of the nerves and tissues in the genital area. This can result in temporary discomfort or pain, especially if the activities are vigorous or prolonged.
3. Muscle Tension: The pelvic floor muscles can become tense due to sexual arousal or anxiety, leading to discomfort. This tension can manifest as pain in the penis or surrounding areas.
4. Infection or Inflammation: Conditions such as prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate) or epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis) can cause pain in the genital area. Although you mentioned that your erectile function is normal, it’s still important to rule out any underlying infections.
5. Psychological Factors: Anxiety about sexual performance or discomfort can sometimes exacerbate physical symptoms. Stress and anxiety can lead to muscle tension, which may contribute to the pain you are experiencing.
Solutions and Recommendations
1. Rest and Recovery: If you notice pain after sexual activity, consider taking breaks between sessions to allow your body to recover. This can help reduce the sensation of fullness and discomfort.
2. Pelvic Floor Exercises: Engaging in pelvic floor exercises (Kegel exercises) can help strengthen the muscles in that area and may alleviate some discomfort. These exercises involve contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles, which can improve blood flow and reduce tension.
3. Hydration and Diet: Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet can support overall health, including sexual health. Avoiding excessive alcohol and caffeine may also help reduce anxiety and tension.
4. Consult a Healthcare Professional: If the pain persists or worsens, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider. They can perform a thorough examination, including a physical exam and possibly imaging studies, to rule out any serious conditions. They may also recommend treatments such as anti-inflammatory medications or physical therapy.
5. Manage Anxiety: If you suspect that anxiety is contributing to your symptoms, consider speaking with a mental health professional. Techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or mindfulness can help manage anxiety and improve your overall sexual health.
6. Limit Frequency of Sexual Activity: If you find that frequent sexual activity leads to discomfort, consider reducing the frequency to see if that alleviates your symptoms.
Conclusion
Experiencing pain or discomfort in the penis after sexual activity is not uncommon, especially in young men. The causes can range from physiological factors like pelvic congestion and overstimulation to psychological factors such as anxiety. While some discomfort may be normal, persistent or severe pain should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying conditions. By taking proactive steps to manage your sexual health and seeking appropriate care, you can address these concerns effectively.
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