Intermittent Penile Pain: Causes and Concerns Explained

Q: Intermittent Penile Pain: Causes and Concerns Explained

Hello： You need to see a urologist at a major hospital. <br>If the issue is caused by an injury and there is even a hard lump, it is important to seek medical attention sooner to prevent it from becoming chronic. <br>Wishing you good health.

From March to June, there has been persistent pain in the penis. In March, there was an injury on the right side that initially caused continuous pain, which then turned into intermittent pain, and now the left side is also experiencing pain. What could be the cause?

From March to June, I have been experiencing pain in my penis.
In March, I injured the right side, which initially caused continuous pain that later turned into intermittent pain.
Now, the left side is also starting to hurt.
What could be the cause of this? The pain on the right side has changed; it no longer hurts continuously but does hurt during both flaccid and erect states.
Since May, the left side has also started to hurt.
Doctor, what is happening to me? Why is this occurring?

Binggan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/12

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: You need to see a urologist at a major hospital.
If the issue is caused by an injury and there is even a hard lump, it is important to seek medical attention sooner to prevent it from becoming chronic.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/06/12

More Info

Intermittent penile pain can be a concerning symptom, and understanding its potential causes is crucial for effective management. Based on your description, it seems that you have experienced pain on the right side of the penis following an injury, which has now transitioned to intermittent pain that also involves the left side. This pattern of pain can arise from several underlying issues, and I will outline some possible causes and considerations.

Possible Causes of Intermittent Penile Pain
1. Trauma or Injury: Since you mentioned an initial injury to the right side, it is possible that you sustained some form of trauma, such as a contusion or strain, which can lead to lingering pain. Even if the initial pain has subsided, the injury may have caused inflammation or nerve irritation that can manifest as intermittent pain.

2. Nerve Irritation or Damage: The penis is richly supplied with nerves, and any injury or inflammation can lead to nerve irritation. This can cause pain that may be felt during both flaccid and erect states. Conditions such as pudendal nerve entrapment or other neuropathies could be contributing factors.

3. Peyronie's Disease: This condition involves the development of fibrous scar tissue inside the penis, which can lead to curvature and pain during erections. If you notice any changes in the shape of your penis or if the pain is associated with erections, this could be a possibility.

4. Infection or Inflammation: Conditions such as balanitis (inflammation of the glans), urethritis (inflammation of the urethra), or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can cause pain in the penile region. If there are any accompanying symptoms such as discharge, itching, or redness, it would be important to consider these conditions.

5. Vascular Issues: Conditions affecting blood flow, such as thrombosis of the penile veins or other vascular abnormalities, can lead to pain during erections. This is less common but should be considered, especially if there are risk factors present.

6. Psychological Factors: Sometimes, pain can have a psychological component, especially if there is anxiety related to sexual performance or previous pain experiences. This can lead to a cycle of pain and anxiety that exacerbates the symptoms.

Recommendations for Management
1. Consult a Healthcare Provider: It is essential to seek medical attention from a urologist or healthcare provider who specializes in male reproductive health. They can perform a thorough examination, possibly including imaging studies or nerve conduction tests, to determine the underlying cause of your pain.

2. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relief medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may help alleviate discomfort. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

3. Avoid Aggravating Activities: Until you have a clearer understanding of the cause of your pain, it may be wise to avoid activities that could exacerbate the pain, such as vigorous sexual activity or any activities that put pressure on the area.

4. Physical Therapy: If nerve irritation is suspected, physical therapy focused on pelvic floor rehabilitation may be beneficial. A physical therapist with experience in pelvic health can provide exercises and techniques to alleviate pain.

5. Follow-Up: Keep track of your symptoms, including when the pain occurs, its intensity, and any associated activities. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider in diagnosing and treating your condition.

Conclusion
Intermittent penile pain can stem from various causes, including trauma, nerve issues, infections, or psychological factors. It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and tailored treatment plan. Early intervention can help prevent potential complications and improve your quality of life. Remember, you are not alone in this, and seeking help is a positive step towards recovery.

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