Urethral Sensations: Is Air Entering the Glans Normal?

Q: Urethral Sensations: Is Air Entering the Glans Normal?

Hello： I believe that air does not enter the urethra. <br>If there is indeed a sensation of pain, it is advisable to seek medical examination. <br>Wishing you good health.

Air enters the glans?

Hello doctor, I would like to ask about a situation where I sometimes feel itching on the glans, and I have a habit of pulling back the foreskin.
Recently, I noticed that it seems like air is entering the urethral opening, specifically at the lower part of the glans.
Sometimes it hurts, and at other times it feels prickly as if there is something there.
When I retract the foreskin to expose the glans, I can hear a popping sound like a small bubble.
Additionally, when I pull back the foreskin to clean during a shower, sometimes water hitting the urethral opening also causes pain.
Is this normal, doctor?

sam, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/04/12

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: I believe that air does not enter the urethra.
If there is indeed a sensation of pain, it is advisable to seek medical examination.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/04/12

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing some discomfort and unusual sensations in the glans and urethra, which can understandably be concerning. Let’s break down your symptoms and provide some insights into what might be happening.

First, the sensation of air entering the urethra can occur, especially if there is a change in pressure or if the urethra is exposed to an environment where air can enter, such as during certain movements or manipulations of the penis. This sensation can sometimes feel like a "pop" or a "bubble" when you pull back the foreskin, and it may be accompanied by discomfort or pain. This is not typically considered normal, but it can happen in some individuals, especially if there is any irritation or inflammation present.

The itching sensation you describe on the glans can be attributed to several factors, including:
1. Irritation or Infection: Conditions such as balanitis (inflammation of the glans) can cause itching and discomfort. This can be due to poor hygiene, irritants from soaps or lotions, or infections (bacterial or fungal).

2. Allergic Reactions: Sometimes, products used for personal hygiene can cause allergic reactions, leading to itching and discomfort.

3. Skin Conditions: Conditions like eczema or psoriasis can also affect the genital area, leading to symptoms like itching and irritation.

4. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Certain STIs can cause symptoms in the genital area, including itching, pain, and unusual sensations. If you have had unprotected sexual contact, it is essential to consider this possibility.

Regarding the pain you experience when water hits the urethral opening during washing, this could indicate sensitivity or irritation in that area. It’s crucial to be gentle when cleaning, as aggressive washing can lead to further irritation. If you notice that certain soaps or products exacerbate the pain, it may be worth switching to a milder, hypoallergenic option.

Given your symptoms, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional, preferably a urologist. They can perform a thorough examination to rule out any infections, skin conditions, or anatomical issues that might be contributing to your discomfort. They may also recommend tests, such as a urine analysis or swabs, to check for infections or other underlying conditions.

In summary, while some sensations may be normal, the combination of itching, pain, and the feeling of air entering the urethra suggests that there may be an underlying issue that needs to be addressed. Seeking medical advice is the best course of action to ensure your health and comfort. Remember, it's essential to maintain good hygiene and be cautious with any products you use in the genital area to prevent irritation.

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