Pain and Discomfort After Sexual Activity: A Urology Perspective

Painful sensation from a circumcision injury?

I usually do not have an exposed glans when not erect, but when I do have an erection, I have to push the foreskin down without any pain.
A few years ago, I had no issues during normal sexual intercourse (both with and without a condom).
Recently, however, after having sex, pushing the foreskin down causes a stinging sensation, although there is no discomfort during the act itself.
A couple of hours after intercourse (without a condom), I notice several scratch-like wounds, but they heal within a day or two, so I haven't paid much attention to it.
The foreskin has become a bit tighter.
After one or two days without sexual activity, it seems to return to normal.
I thought the wounds had healed, but after having intercourse again, I noticed they reopened (especially noticeable without a condom), and pain followed.
However, everything feels normal when using a condom.
What can I do to improve this situation? Thank you.

Rei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/01

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology

It sounds like a fungal infection, which can cause the tissue to become more fragile.
It is recommended to see a urologist for an examination, and medication treatment may be necessary.

Reply Date: 2020/10/01

More Info

Understanding pain and discomfort after sexual activity can be complex, especially when it involves the urogenital area. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing a few interconnected issues related to your sexual health, particularly concerning the sensitivity of your glans (the head of the penis) and the tightness of your foreskin.

Pain and Discomfort After Sexual Activity
1. Foreskin Tightness (Phimosis): The fact that you have to push your foreskin down during an erection suggests that you might be experiencing a condition known as phimosis, where the foreskin cannot be easily retracted over the glans. This can lead to discomfort during sexual activity, especially if the foreskin is tight and causes friction against the glans. The presence of "scratches" or abrasions after intercourse could be a result of this friction, leading to micro-tears in the skin.

2. Post-Intercourse Pain: The pain you experience after sexual activity, particularly when you retract the foreskin, could be due to these micro-tears or irritation of the sensitive skin. The absence of pain during intercourse but the presence of pain afterward is not uncommon and can be attributed to the inflammation or irritation that develops after the activity.

3. Healing Process: The fact that the "scratches" heal within a couple of days indicates that the skin is responding to the irritation but also suggests that the underlying issue (tight foreskin) remains unaddressed. Repeated trauma to the same area can lead to chronic discomfort and may require intervention.

Recommendations for Improvement
1. Consult a Urologist: It is crucial to consult a urologist who can perform a thorough examination. They may assess the tightness of your foreskin and determine if you have phimosis or another condition that requires treatment.
2. Gentle Stretching: If phimosis is diagnosed, your doctor may recommend gentle stretching exercises for the foreskin. This can help increase elasticity and reduce discomfort during sexual activity. However, this should be done under medical supervision to avoid further injury.

3. Topical Treatments: In some cases, topical corticosteroids may be prescribed to help reduce inflammation and promote healing of the skin. This can be particularly helpful if there is significant irritation or if the skin is inflamed.

4. Hygiene Practices: Maintaining good hygiene is essential. Ensure that the area is clean and dry, as moisture can exacerbate irritation. After sexual activity, gently clean the area to prevent any buildup of bacteria or irritants.

5. Consider Circumcision: If the problem persists and significantly impacts your quality of life, circumcision may be considered as a definitive solution. This procedure removes the foreskin and can eliminate the issues associated with tightness and irritation.

6. Use Lubrication: During sexual activity, using a water-based lubricant can help reduce friction between the foreskin and glans, potentially minimizing the risk of irritation and injury.

7. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms and any changes you notice. If you experience increased pain, swelling, or any discharge, seek medical attention promptly.

Conclusion
Pain and discomfort after sexual activity can stem from various factors, including anatomical issues like phimosis. It’s essential to address these concerns with a healthcare professional who can provide a tailored approach to your situation. By taking proactive steps, you can improve your sexual health and overall well-being. Remember, open communication with your partner about these issues can also help alleviate anxiety and enhance your sexual experiences.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Post-Intercourse Urination Pain: Causes and Solutions

Hello, doctor! Over the past year, I have experienced pain during urination the day after sexual intercourse, accompanied by a burning sensation. This is especially noticeable with the first urination in the morning. As I urinate more frequently, the pain gradually decreases, and...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Hello, it is possible that the rupture of blood vessels is caused by an erection. Alternatively, it could be due to urethritis resulting from sexual activity. Muscle soreness may also occur due to excessive nerve stimulation during an erection. If you have any further questions, ...

Understanding Penile Pain: Causes and Concerns for Urological Health

Recent soreness in the penis can be caused by several conditions. It seems to be particularly noticeable when sitting, and there is discomfort during urination, such as a slower urine flow and the need to exert effort, which also causes pain. Additionally, there is soreness durin...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: Masturbation and consuming overly spicy food can have an impact, but your situation is abnormal and you should seek medical examination.

Painful Urination After Sex: Causes and Solutions

A week ago, I had sexual intercourse, and a few days later, I started experiencing mild pain while urinating. Now, urination is very painful, and when I press on the glans or retract the foreskin, pus comes out.

Dr. Xu Wencang reply Urology
Acute urethritis is usually caused by a Neisseria gonorrhoeae infection; it is important to seek medical treatment promptly.

Understanding Discomfort in the Penis: Causes and Concerns

Hello Doctor: About a month ago, I received a half-service at a massage parlor. Afterwards, I experienced some itching in the urinary area, occasionally accompanied by mild pain, but everything else seemed normal, and there was no significant burning sensation while urinating. Ap...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Hank: Hello, it could be a less common type of urethritis, such as caused by Chlamydia, viruses, etc. General antibiotics may not be very effective. Moreover, taking prophylactic antibiotics 26 days ago likely does not provide significant protection. If symptoms persist, it is ad...