Persistent Mild Penile Pain: Causes and Concerns Explored

Mild penile pain for several months?

Hello, Dr.
Tsai.
Recently, I've been experiencing a vague discomfort in my genital area, with mild pain that has persisted for about six months.
There has been no trauma, and I maintain proper hygiene daily.
I only know that I had a sexual encounter with a stranger ten months ago, during which a condom was used (but not during oral sex).
Within a month after the encounter, I sought testing at a urology clinic, including blood tests and urinalysis, which returned negative results.
Can I rule out the possibility of chlamydia or gonorrhea? Thank you.

Mr. Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/01/21

Dr. Cai Zhuorong reply Urology

There are a few cases of gonorrhea transmitted through oral sex in the medical literature, and chlamydial urethritis is also not entirely impossible.
It is recommended that you undergo testing again.

Reply Date: 2020/01/21

More Info

Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding persistent mild penile pain. It’s understandable to feel anxious about such symptoms, especially when they persist for an extended period. Let’s explore the potential causes and considerations regarding your situation.

Firstly, it’s important to note that persistent penile pain can arise from various factors, and it’s not uncommon for individuals to experience discomfort without a clear cause. Since you mentioned that you have not experienced any trauma and maintain good hygiene, we can consider other possibilities.

1. Infections: While you have already undergone testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, it’s essential to remember that some infections can be asymptomatic or may not present immediately. Conditions like urethritis, which is inflammation of the urethra, can cause discomfort and may not always be detected in initial tests. Additionally, other STIs, such as herpes or trichomoniasis, could also be considered, especially if you have had unprotected sexual contact.

2. Peyronie’s Disease: This condition involves the development of fibrous scar tissue inside the penis, which can lead to pain and curvature during erections. While it’s more commonly associated with noticeable deformities, some individuals may experience mild discomfort without significant changes in shape.

3. Nerve Irritation or Neuropathy: Sometimes, nerve irritation or damage can lead to persistent pain in the genital area. This could be due to various reasons, including prolonged pressure, certain medical conditions (like diabetes), or even psychological factors such as anxiety or stress.

4. Skin Conditions: Conditions affecting the skin of the penis, such as balanitis (inflammation of the glans), eczema, or psoriasis, can also lead to discomfort. Even if there are no visible signs, underlying skin issues could be contributing to your symptoms.

5. Psychological Factors: Anxiety and stress can manifest physically, leading to sensations of discomfort or pain in various parts of the body, including the genital area. If you find that your symptoms worsen with stress or anxiety, this could be a contributing factor.

Given that your symptoms have persisted for six months, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional, preferably a urologist, for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend further testing, such as a physical examination, imaging studies, or additional laboratory tests, to rule out any underlying conditions.

In terms of your concern about the possibility of having chlamydia or gonorrhea, while your previous tests were negative, it’s important to consider that infections can sometimes take time to manifest or may not be detected in standard tests. If you have any new symptoms or changes, it would be wise to seek re-evaluation.

In summary, while it’s reassuring that your initial tests were negative, persistent pain warrants further investigation to ensure that any underlying issues are addressed. Don’t hesitate to seek medical advice, as early intervention can often lead to better outcomes. Take care, and I hope you find relief soon!

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