Redness at the Urethral Opening: Causes and Solutions

Redness of the urethral opening and glans penis?

I have had redness at the urethral opening for three months.
Initially, there was a sensation of a slight wound at the urethral opening.
After seeing a doctor and taking medication for a urinary tract infection, it improved somewhat, but now the urethral opening still appears slightly translucent red.
I would like to ask about the appearance of the urethral opening: when it is not erect, it looks somewhat like a bruise, and when it is erect, there are small white spots on the surface of the urethral opening.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/01

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology

It is recommended to first try applying a little petroleum jelly to the affected area for two weeks to reduce friction with clothing, which may cause irritation or minor wounds.
Otherwise, it is advisable to return to the urology department for further examination.

Reply Date: 2021/06/01

More Info

Understanding redness at the urethral opening can be concerning, especially when it persists for an extended period, such as three months in your case. The symptoms you've described, including a sensation of a sore or raw area at the urethral opening, along with the transparent red color and the appearance of spots, can be indicative of several underlying conditions.

Firstly, it is essential to consider the possibility of a urinary tract infection (UTI), which can cause inflammation and redness at the urethral opening. UTIs are often accompanied by symptoms such as burning during urination, increased frequency of urination, and sometimes blood in the urine. Although you mentioned that you were treated for a UTI and experienced some improvement, it is possible that the infection was not entirely resolved or that there is another underlying issue.

Another potential cause of redness and irritation at the urethral opening could be related to trauma or irritation. This can occur from various activities, including vigorous sexual activity, improper hygiene, or even the use of certain soaps or lotions that may irritate the sensitive skin in that area. If there was any trauma to the area, it could lead to bruising or a hematoma, which might explain the appearance of a "bruise-like" area you mentioned.

Additionally, conditions such as balanitis (inflammation of the glans penis) or urethritis (inflammation of the urethra) could also be contributing factors. Balanitis can cause redness and swelling at the tip of the penis and may be associated with a discharge or discomfort. Urethritis, on the other hand, can result from infections (bacterial or viral) or irritants and may present with similar symptoms.

Given the duration of your symptoms and the changes in appearance, it is crucial to seek further medical evaluation. A healthcare provider may recommend a thorough examination, including a urinalysis and possibly a culture to identify any infectious agents. They may also consider performing a physical examination to assess for any signs of trauma, irritation, or other abnormalities.

In terms of treatment, if an infection is confirmed, appropriate antibiotics or antiviral medications may be prescribed. If irritation or trauma is suspected, recommendations may include avoiding irritants, practicing good hygiene, and possibly using topical treatments to soothe the area. In some cases, if there is a persistent issue, referral to a urologist may be necessary for further evaluation and management.

In summary, the redness at the urethral opening can arise from various causes, including infections, trauma, or irritants. It is essential to follow up with a healthcare provider for a comprehensive evaluation to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can help prevent complications and promote healing.

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