Redness and Pain Around the Urethral Opening: Causes and Care Tips

Redness and pain around the glans and urethral opening?

Hello, doctor.
In the past two to three days, I found cleaning the masturbation sleeve to be troublesome, so I decided to use it directly while showering, using body wash as lubrication.
After finishing today, I noticed slight redness and pain at the tip of the glans near the urethral opening.
At that moment, I was still in a state of engorgement, so I didn't pay much attention.
A few hours later, when I urinated, I found that the redness and pain had not improved.
I suspect this is due to insufficient lubrication (especially at the base of the masturbation sleeve) causing repeated friction and irritation.
How long do you think it will take for this condition to recover? Besides keeping the area dry, is there anything else I should pay special attention to during recovery? Thank you, doctor.

Xiao Gang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/05/13

Dr. Xu Wencang reply Urology

First, observe the situation, and if there are any issues, then visit the outpatient clinic for examination.

Reply Date: 2020/05/13

More Info

Redness and pain around the urethral opening can be concerning symptoms, especially following activities that involve friction or irritation, such as the use of lubricants or masturbation. Based on your description, it seems likely that the redness and discomfort you are experiencing are due to irritation or mild trauma to the sensitive skin in that area, possibly exacerbated by the use of body wash as a lubricant, which may not be suitable for such sensitive regions.

Causes of Redness and Pain
1. Irritation: The use of body wash instead of a proper lubricant can lead to irritation. Many body washes contain fragrances, dyes, or other chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin, especially in the genital area.

2. Friction: Repeated friction from sexual activity or masturbation can cause micro-tears in the skin, leading to redness and pain. This is particularly true if adequate lubrication is not used.

3. Infection: While it may not be the primary cause in your case, any time there is pain and redness around the urethral opening, there is a possibility of a urinary tract infection (UTI) or sexually transmitted infection (STI). Symptoms of these infections often include burning during urination, increased frequency of urination, and sometimes discharge.

4. Allergic Reaction: If you have used a new product (like a different body wash), it could potentially cause an allergic reaction, leading to redness and discomfort.

Care Tips and Recovery
1. Avoid Irritants: Stop using body wash as a lubricant. Instead, opt for water-based or silicone-based lubricants that are specifically designed for sexual activity. These are less likely to cause irritation.

2. Keep the Area Clean and Dry: After any activity, gently clean the area with warm water and avoid using harsh soaps or body washes. Pat the area dry with a clean towel.

3. Avoid Further Friction: Give your body time to heal by avoiding any activities that may cause further irritation, such as masturbation or sexual intercourse, until the redness and pain subside.

4. Moisturize: If the skin appears dry, consider using a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer that is safe for sensitive skin. This can help soothe irritation.

5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your symptoms. If the redness and pain do not improve within a few days, or if you develop additional symptoms such as burning during urination, discharge, or fever, it is important to seek medical attention.

6. Hydration: Drink plenty of water to help flush out your urinary system, which can be beneficial if there is any underlying irritation or infection.

7. Avoid Tight Clothing: Wear loose-fitting underwear and clothing to reduce friction and allow the area to breathe.

When to Seek Medical Attention
If the symptoms persist beyond a few days or worsen, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They may perform a physical examination and possibly recommend tests to rule out infections or other underlying conditions. Early intervention can help prevent complications and ensure a quicker recovery.

In summary, while mild irritation from friction and unsuitable lubricants is common, it is essential to monitor your symptoms and take appropriate care to promote healing. If in doubt, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment options.

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