Redness on the Glans: Causes and Concerns in Urology - Urology

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Redness of the glans?


Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about a condition I have.
The area near the glans, close to the corona, appears slightly red, resembling a rash, but it does not extend towards the urethral opening.
It is not painful or itchy and has persisted for several months.
When I do not retract my foreskin to allow airflow, it becomes somewhat sticky over time.
Therefore, I have been keeping my foreskin retracted, which alleviates this issue.
Additionally, after masturbation, my glans tends to feel dry, and I sometimes experience a sharp pain between the testicles and the anus, which usually occurs after masturbation.

1.
What could be causing the redness on my glans?
2.
Why do I feel discomfort in that area after masturbation?
Thank you, Doctor.

Xiao Ming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/02/11

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology


After ejaculation, many young men may experience discomfort due to pelvic congestion and strong contractions of the pelvic floor muscles, which sounds normal based on your description.
As for the small red bumps on the glans, they sound somewhat like pearly penile papules, which are benign.
However, if you have concerns, it is advisable to consult a urologist for an examination and further discussion with the physician.

Reply Date: 2020/02/11

More Info


Understanding redness on the glans (the head of the penis) can be concerning, and it’s important to consider various factors that could contribute to this condition. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing a persistent redness near the corona of the glans, which is not accompanied by pain or itching. This condition has lasted for several months and seems to improve when you keep the area exposed rather than covered by the foreskin. Additionally, you mentioned experiencing dryness of the glans after masturbation and occasional discomfort between the scrotum and anus.

1. What could the redness indicate?
The redness you are observing could be attributed to several factors. One possibility is a condition known as balanitis, which is inflammation of the glans. This can occur due to poor hygiene, irritation from soaps or other products, or even infections (bacterial or fungal). Another potential cause could be friction or irritation from sexual activity, including masturbation, especially if adequate lubrication is not used. In some cases, skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema can also manifest as redness in this area. Since you mentioned that the redness is not painful or itchy, it might suggest a less severe condition, but it is still advisable to monitor it closely.

2. Why does discomfort occur after masturbation?
The discomfort you experience after masturbation could be due to several reasons. First, friction during the act can lead to irritation of the sensitive skin on the glans, especially if there is insufficient lubrication. This can cause temporary discomfort or a burning sensation. Additionally, if you are not allowing the area to breathe (by keeping the foreskin retracted), moisture can accumulate, leading to a sticky feeling and potential irritation. It’s also possible that the position or technique used during masturbation could contribute to discomfort.
To address these concerns, here are some recommendations:
- Maintain Hygiene: Ensure that you are practicing good hygiene by cleaning the area gently with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh soaps or products that may cause irritation.

- Moisturize: If dryness is an issue, consider using a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer or a lubricant during masturbation to reduce friction and irritation.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on the redness and any changes in symptoms. If the redness persists, worsens, or if you develop additional symptoms such as pain, itching, or discharge, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional.

- Consider Medical Evaluation: If you are concerned about the redness or if it does not resolve with improved hygiene and care, it may be beneficial to see a urologist. They can perform a thorough examination and may conduct tests to rule out any underlying infections or skin conditions.

In summary, while the redness on the glans may not be indicative of a serious condition, it is essential to maintain proper hygiene and monitor any changes. If discomfort persists or worsens, seeking medical advice is the best course of action to ensure your health and peace of mind.

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