Pain During Erection: Causes and When to Seek Help - Urology

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Erectile pain issues?


Hello Doctor, I’m not sure if it’s because I haven’t masturbated for a long time or if there’s some other issue, but recently I’ve been experiencing a kind of intermittent aching sensation during the process of erection (especially when I first become erect).
I can’t pinpoint the exact location of the pain; it feels like it’s in the penis itself, but it also seems to be in the scrotum or perineum.
There are no visible changes, and I can achieve a full erection and ejaculation.
I had a health check earlier this month where I had blood and urine tests, including a prostate index, and everything came back normal.
So now I’m a bit confused.
Doctor, what could be the possible causes of pain during erection? When I searched online, most results mentioned scary issues like inflammation or tunica albuginea rupture.
Is there a possibility that this could be an emergency? Should I see a doctor or wait and observe for a while? Thank you, Doctor.

Bai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/20

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology


Hello: If symptoms persist for more than a week, you should seek medical attention.
Currently, it is advisable to reduce the frequency of sexual activity.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/03/20

More Info


Understanding pain during erection can be a complex issue, and it's important to approach it with a clear understanding of potential causes and when to seek medical help. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing discomfort during the process of achieving an erection, particularly at the onset. This discomfort can manifest as a dull ache or sharp pain, and it may be localized to the penis, scrotum, or perineal area.

There are several potential causes for pain during erection, and they can range from benign to more serious conditions. Here are some common causes:
1. Muscle Strain: If you have recently engaged in physical activities that involve the pelvic area, you might have strained the muscles, leading to discomfort during erections.

2. Nerve Sensitivity: Sometimes, nerves in the pelvic region can become overly sensitive, leading to pain during sexual arousal or erection.

3. Peyronie's Disease: This condition involves the development of fibrous scar tissue inside the penis, which can cause pain and curvature during erections. While you mentioned that there are no visible changes, it’s still worth considering if the pain persists.

4. Infections: Infections in the urinary tract, prostate, or sexually transmitted infections can lead to pain during erections. Given that your recent tests showed normal results, this may be less likely, but it’s still a possibility.

5. Inflammation: Conditions such as prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate) can cause pain during erections. This is often accompanied by other symptoms such as difficulty urinating or pelvic pain.

6. Vascular Issues: Problems with blood flow can also lead to discomfort during erections. This is less common but can occur in certain medical conditions.

7. Psychological Factors: Anxiety or stress related to sexual performance can sometimes manifest as physical discomfort.
Given that you have had recent blood tests and urinalysis that returned normal results, it may be reassuring, but it does not completely rule out the possibility of underlying issues. If the pain is persistent, worsening, or accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling, changes in urination, or any discharge, it is advisable to seek medical attention.
In terms of urgency, if the pain is severe or if you notice any significant changes in your health, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare provider sooner rather than later. They can conduct a thorough examination, possibly including imaging studies or further tests, to determine the cause of your discomfort.

In summary, while occasional discomfort during erection can be normal, especially after a period of inactivity, persistent or severe pain warrants a medical evaluation. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health. If you feel uncertain or anxious about your symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for guidance. They can provide you with the necessary support and treatment options to address your concerns effectively.

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