Glans Issues: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Glans issues

Recently, I noticed a similar skin tear on the frenulum while washing my glans in the bathroom before being intimate with my girlfriend.
There was no bleeding, just a stinging pain.
At that moment, I didn't think much of it and continued to be intimate, but I had to stop halfway due to the discomfort from the stinging sensation.
Later, I discovered that there was also a tear in the skin beneath the glans ring.
I initially thought it was balanitis and applied Clotrimazole cream, which seemed to help at first.
However, I noticed an increase in smegma and a stronger odor.
When I masturbated, I found that the skin around the glans ring would tear again with slight pressure, just like before.
Currently, I am washing the glans with clean water and drying it, but the smegma issue persists.
I'm uncertain whether this is balanitis or a sexually transmitted infection.

A Yu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/03/18

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology

A tear in the frenulum of the foreskin may not heal easily.
It can take about 10 days for the wound to heal properly with appropriate care.
Avoid any pulling or tension on the area.
It is advisable to consult a urologist for medication and education on proper care.

Reply Date: 2020/03/18

More Info

Understanding glans issues, particularly symptoms, causes, and treatments, is crucial for maintaining sexual health and overall well-being. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing discomfort and potential skin issues around the glans (the head of the penis), which could be attributed to several factors, including infections, irritations, or underlying medical conditions.

Symptoms
The symptoms you described include:
- Pain or discomfort when engaging in sexual activity.

- Cracks or fissures in the skin around the glans and the frenulum (the band of tissue on the underside of the penis).

- Increased smegma (the buildup of dead skin cells, oils, and other bodily fluids) and a change in odor.

- Discomfort during masturbation, particularly when pressure is applied.

Possible Causes
1. Balanitis: This is an inflammation of the glans, often caused by poor hygiene, infections (bacterial or fungal), or irritants. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and pain, which aligns with your experience of discomfort and the presence of cracks.

2. Fungal Infections: Conditions like candidiasis (yeast infection) can lead to similar symptoms, particularly if there is an overgrowth of yeast due to factors like moisture and lack of air circulation.

3. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Certain STIs can cause symptoms similar to what you are experiencing. It’s essential to consider this possibility, especially if you have had unprotected sexual contact.

4. Irritation or Allergic Reaction: Sometimes, soaps, lotions, or even condoms can cause irritation leading to skin breakdown. If you recently changed any products you use, this could be a factor.

5. Dermatological Conditions: Conditions like psoriasis or eczema can also affect the genital area, leading to skin changes and discomfort.

Treatments
1. Hygiene: Maintaining proper hygiene is crucial. Gently wash the area with warm water and mild soap, ensuring you rinse thoroughly. Avoid harsh soaps or products that may irritate the skin.

2. Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter antifungal creams (like clotrimazole) or hydrocortisone cream may help if a fungal infection or inflammation is suspected. However, avoid using any topical treatments without consulting a healthcare professional first.

3. Avoid Irritants: If you suspect that a product may be causing irritation, discontinue its use. This includes soaps, lotions, or any other topical products.

4. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Given the symptoms you are experiencing, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional, preferably a urologist or dermatologist. They can perform a physical examination, possibly conduct tests (like swabs or cultures), and provide a definitive diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

5. Avoid Sexual Activity: Until you have a clear diagnosis and treatment plan, it may be wise to avoid sexual activity to prevent further irritation or potential transmission of an infection.

Conclusion
Your symptoms warrant a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment. Self-diagnosing can lead to inappropriate treatment and potentially worsen the condition. Remember, maintaining open communication with your partner about health concerns is also essential for mutual well-being.

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