Frenulum Tears: Symptoms, Healing, and Treatment Options

Q: Frenulum Tears: Symptoms, Healing, and Treatment Options

Hello： It is likely not fully healed. <br>I recommend being cautious with DIY activities and not pulling too hard. <br>Wishing you good health, and remember to keep the area clean and dry. <br>If you notice any redness, please seek medical attention. <br>Wishing you good health.

Issues with the frenulum of the glans?

Hello doctor, it seems that the frenulum between my foreskin and glans is slightly injured, and it feels like it has a bit of a tear.
At first, there was some pain but no bleeding; later, the pain almost disappeared, although it still doesn't look healed.
A month later, after masturbating once or twice, I experienced some pain the next day, but it went away after a few days.
However, it still doesn't seem to be healing, as I've heard that a torn frenulum usually heals in about one to two weeks.
I'm wondering why, after two months, it still doesn't look healed.
Should I apply any medication? Also, there are some white debris in the grooves on both sides of the frenulum where the injury is; should I clean that off, or is it unnecessary?

Mr. Li, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/07/30

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: It is likely not fully healed.
I recommend being cautious with DIY activities and not pulling too hard.
Wishing you good health, and remember to keep the area clean and dry.
If you notice any redness, please seek medical attention.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/07/30

More Info

Frenulum tears, particularly in the context of the penis, refer to injuries to the frenulum, which is the band of tissue that connects the underside of the glans (the head of the penis) to the shaft. These types of injuries can occur due to various reasons, including friction during sexual activity, masturbation, or even from tight foreskin (phimosis). Understanding the symptoms, healing process, and treatment options for frenulum tears is essential for proper care and recovery.

Symptoms of Frenulum Tears
The primary symptoms of a frenulum tear include:
1. Pain or Discomfort: Initially, there may be sharp pain or discomfort, especially during erections or sexual activity.

2. Swelling or Redness: The area may appear swollen or red, indicating inflammation.

3. Bleeding: While you mentioned that there was no bleeding initially, some individuals may experience minor bleeding at the time of the injury.

4. White Discharge: The presence of white discharge or a buildup of dead skin cells can occur, especially if the area is not kept clean.

5. Delayed Healing: As you noted, if the injury does not seem to heal after a few weeks, it may indicate a more significant issue.

Healing Process
Typically, minor frenulum tears can heal within one to two weeks. However, several factors can affect healing time:
- Severity of the Tear: Deeper or more severe tears may take longer to heal.

- Hygiene: Maintaining proper hygiene is crucial to prevent infection, which can delay healing.

- Activity Level: Engaging in sexual activity or masturbation too soon after the injury can exacerbate the tear and prolong recovery.

Treatment Options
1. Hygiene: Keeping the area clean is vital. Gently wash the area with mild soap and water. If there is a buildup of white discharge, it is advisable to clean it off to prevent irritation or infection.

2. Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter topical antibiotics (like Neosporin) can be applied to prevent infection. However, avoid using any harsh chemicals or irritants.

3. Avoid Irritation: Refrain from sexual activity or masturbation until the area has healed completely. This will help prevent further irritation and allow the tissue to recover.

4. Pain Management: If you experience pain, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage discomfort.

5. Consult a Healthcare Provider: If the tear does not show signs of healing after a few weeks, or if you experience increased pain, swelling, or signs of infection (such as pus or fever), it is essential to consult a healthcare provider. They may recommend further treatment, which could include prescription medications or, in rare cases, surgical intervention.

When to Seek Medical Attention
You should seek medical attention if:
- The pain persists or worsens.

- There are signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge.

- The tear does not show signs of healing after two weeks.

- You have concerns about the appearance of the frenulum or any other symptoms.

In conclusion, while minor frenulum tears can often heal on their own with proper care, it is crucial to monitor the injury and maintain good hygiene. If healing does not occur as expected, or if you have any concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for advice and treatment.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Frenulum Tears: Healing Time and Treatment Options

Hello doctor, during my last sexual encounter with my girlfriend, I accidentally injured my frenulum, resulting in a small wound that bled continuously at the time. After resting for two weeks, it seemed to have healed, but when we tried again, it appeared to have torn open. When...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: If the wound keeps reopening and bleeding in the same area, it needs to heal completely before any friction occurs. If there is bleeding from different nearby locations, it may require a medical evaluation to determine if surgical intervention is necessary. For now, using ...

Managing Frenulum Tears: Treatment and Recovery Tips

Hello doctor, today I visited a urology clinic due to a tear in the frenulum (approximately 0.2 cm). The clinic physician advised applying Betadine for wound care and mentioned that it would heal gradually. They also inquired if sutures were necessary, but the doctor indicated th...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: The wound should be dressed and treated with an antiseptic ointment to reduce inflammation and stop the bleeding. If there is further bleeding, please return for treatment. Wishing you good health.

Managing Painful Frenulum Issues During Sexual Activity

Hello doctor, during sexual intercourse, dryness of the vagina may cause repeated tearing of the frenulum, and after healing, a triangular tissue overgrowth or hematoma about 3mm in size remains on the frenulum. I experience slight pain when pulling down the foreskin. How can I a...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: No need for ice or heat therapy; just disinfect with iodine solution every morning and evening. If there is moisture, dry it off, and if there is redness, apply antibiotic ointment. Wishing you good health.

Understanding Frenulum Injuries: Symptoms, Treatment, and When to Seek Help

The condition you are describing appears to be a tear or laceration of the frenulum, which is the band of tissue on the underside of the penis that connects the glans to the shaft. If the tear has not healed properly and has become larger, along with the presence of pain and chan...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Mr. Hong: Hello, the wound is healing poorly, resulting in a chronic ulcer. It is recommended to have a physician assess the severity to determine if debridement surgery is necessary to accelerate healing. If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again for further discus...