Penile Pain and Urethral Itching After Risky Sexual Behavior

Q: Penile Pain and Urethral Itching After Risky Sexual Behavior

Hello： After sexual intercourse, experiencing urethral itching and painful urination may indicate a urinary tract infection. <br>It is advisable to perform a urinalysis and urine culture to confirm the diagnosis. <br>(Note that not all cases of urethritis will present with purule

Slight prickling sensation in the penis and itching in the urethra?

Hello, Doctor.
I would like to ask you some questions.
I am currently in Vietnam and about three weeks ago, I engaged in high-risk sexual behavior (without using a condom).
Initially, there were no unusual symptoms, but in the past two days, I have noticed abnormal itching at the frenulum connecting the penis to the base and some slight pain during urination.
However, upon self-examination, I did not find any unusual redness, swelling, or other abnormalities on the penis.
During the first urination in the morning, I also checked and did not observe any discharge or abnormal secretions.
Recently, I have had commercial sexual encounters, but I used condoms for those.
Since I am in Vietnam and it is inconvenient to seek medical attention, and considering the quality of healthcare here...
I would like to ask you, based on the results of my self-examination, is it possible that I have a sexually transmitted infection, or could it be that excessive sexual activity has led to urethritis? Of course, I hope it is the latter, but if it is the former, could you assist in determining the condition so that I can seek medical treatment and obtain medication in Vietnam? If more detailed self-examination information is needed to help assess the condition, please let me know.
I understand that I should not engage in commercial sexual activities, but being unmarried and in a foreign country makes it difficult.
Thank you for taking the time to help this stranger in a foreign land with this sensitive issue.

Yue Nan Tai Lao, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/12/07

Dr. Chen Xiuyi reply Urology

Hello: After sexual intercourse, experiencing urethral itching and painful urination may indicate a urinary tract infection.
It is advisable to perform a urinalysis and urine culture to confirm the diagnosis.
(Note that not all cases of urethritis will present with purulent discharge or increased secretions.) Sincerely, Dr.
Chen Hsiu-Yi, Urology.

Reply Date: 2004/12/07

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing some concerning symptoms following risky sexual behavior, and it's understandable to feel anxious about the possibility of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Based on the information you've provided, let's break down your situation and address your concerns.

1. Symptoms and Possible Causes: You mentioned experiencing itching in the area where the penile frenulum connects to the shaft, along with some discomfort during urination. These symptoms can be indicative of several conditions. While STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and herpes can cause similar symptoms, it is also possible that you are experiencing a non-infectious irritation, such as from friction or overactivity during sexual activity.
2. Risk of STIs: Engaging in unprotected sexual intercourse increases the risk of contracting STIs. Although you did not notice any abnormal discharge or redness during your self-examination, it is important to note that some STIs can present with subtle symptoms or may not show symptoms at all initially. The fact that you have had subsequent protected sexual encounters is reassuring, but it does not eliminate the risk from the earlier unprotected encounter.

3. Self-Examination Limitations: While self-examination can provide some insights, it is not a substitute for professional medical evaluation. Symptoms like urethral itching and pain during urination warrant further investigation. It is also worth noting that not all STIs will present with visible symptoms, and some may require specific tests to diagnose.

4. Next Steps: Given your current symptoms and the history of unprotected sexual activity, it is advisable to seek medical attention as soon as possible. If you are in a location where accessing healthcare is challenging, consider looking for clinics that specialize in sexual health or STIs. Many places offer confidential testing and treatment options.

5. Testing for STIs: When you visit a healthcare provider, they may recommend tests for common STIs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV. It is important to be honest about your sexual history so that the provider can offer the most appropriate tests and treatment.
6. Treatment Options: If an STI is diagnosed, treatment will depend on the specific infection. Bacterial infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea are typically treated with antibiotics, while viral infections like herpes may require antiviral medications.
7. Prevention: Moving forward, it is crucial to practice safer sex to reduce the risk of STIs. This includes using condoms consistently and correctly, getting regular STI screenings, and having open discussions with sexual partners about sexual health.

In summary, while your symptoms could be due to a variety of causes, including irritation from sexual activity, the possibility of an STI cannot be ruled out. Seeking medical attention for appropriate testing and treatment is the best course of action. Remember, taking care of your sexual health is important, and there are resources available to help you navigate this situation.

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