Balanitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention Tips

Glans inflammation

Hello, Doctor: Last week, I noticed a few small white spots on my glans, and the next day, they broke open.
I went to see a urologist, who diagnosed me with a bacterial infection of the glans, which is balanitis.
After a week, the broken skin has healed, and there is only a little redness left in the area.
I would like to ask how to determine if I am fully healed.
If I engage in sexual intercourse with my wife now, will it be contagious? What about daily activities like kissing, sharing utensils during meals, and using the same bathroom facilities—will those transmit the infection? After the wound has healed, is there a chance of recurrence? (This is my first experience with this condition, and I am really scared.) Should I consider getting a circumcision? (The doctor mentioned that I have phimosis.) Would that improve my condition? Is there a risk of recurrence after the procedure? I have a habit of wearing disposable underwear (which I have been doing for several months, changing to a new pair every day).
Could this be a cause of the infection? I apologize for asking so many questions at once, but I am very concerned about transmitting this to my family and wife, and I am especially worried about its impact on fertility.
I kindly ask for your guidance...
Thank you...

Kunrao de ren, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/02/12

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, generally speaking, the skin on the glans is mucous membrane, not skin, so do not use cleaning products (such as soap) on it.
The more you apply, the more the mucous membrane can be damaged, making it easier for bacterial infections to occur.
Therefore, I recommend cleaning the penis with just water, which is more hygienic.
As for whether the balanitis has resolved, I usually check if the lesions have disappeared.
Based on your description, there may still be some remaining, so further treatment is needed.
Regarding the possibility of transmitting it to your wife, there is a chance, but it is low.
If you share chopsticks and spoons while eating family-style meals, or use shared bathroom facilities, can it be transmitted? It is likely, especially when using public bathroom facilities, the risk is higher.
Therefore, when using public restrooms, I recommend washing your hands before use, trying not to touch anything while using it, and washing your hands again afterward.
After the wound has healed, will it recur? If there is a reinfection, new lesions can form, but this is considered a reinfection, not a recurrence (recurrence refers to not being completely healed).
Is circumcision necessary? This is unrelated to the foreskin; it is caused by an external bacterial infection.
Disposable underwear is not necessarily cleaner.
In fact, during the manufacturing process, there may be residual chemicals (compared to regularly washed clothing, which has very little chemical residue after several washes).
Using brand new disposable underwear each time can lead to local irritation and inflammation.
You might notice a pungent smell from disposable underwear.
This is a message from the Department of Urology at Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, expressing concern for you.
Director Hsu Wei-Kai.

Reply Date: 2005/02/12

More Info

Balanitis, or inflammation of the glans penis, can be a distressing condition, and it’s understandable that you have many questions regarding your diagnosis and treatment. Let's break down your concerns regarding symptoms, treatment, and prevention tips.

Understanding Balanitis
Balanitis can be caused by various factors, including bacterial infections, yeast infections, poor hygiene, and skin conditions. The symptoms you described, such as the appearance of small white spots and subsequent skin breakdown, are common indicators of this condition. It’s good to hear that after a week of treatment, the broken skin has healed and only a bit of redness remains.

Treatment and Recovery
To determine if you are fully healed, you should consider the following:
1. Symptom Resolution: If you no longer experience pain, itching, or discomfort, and the redness has significantly diminished, these are positive signs of recovery.

2. Follow-Up: It's essential to have a follow-up appointment with your urologist to confirm that the infection has resolved completely. They may perform a physical examination and, if necessary, additional tests to ensure there are no lingering issues.

Risk of Transmission
Regarding your concerns about transmission:
- Sexual Activity: If you have healed completely and are no longer experiencing symptoms, the risk of transmitting an infection during sexual activity is significantly reduced. However, it’s always best to consult your healthcare provider before resuming sexual activity to ensure complete healing.

- Daily Activities: Activities such as kissing, sharing utensils, or using communal bathroom facilities typically do not pose a risk for transmitting balanitis. Balanitis is not considered a sexually transmitted infection (STI), but if it is caused by a sexually transmitted pathogen, caution is advised.

Recurrence and Prevention
As for the possibility of recurrence, several factors can contribute:
- Hygiene: Maintaining proper hygiene is crucial. Ensure that you clean the area gently but thoroughly, especially if you have a longer foreskin.

- Clothing Choices: Wearing breathable, moisture-wicking underwear can help prevent irritation and infections. If you have been wearing disposable underwear, consider switching to cotton options that allow for better airflow.

- Underlying Conditions: If you have conditions like diabetes, they can predispose you to infections, so managing those is essential.

Circumcision Consideration
Regarding circumcision, it is a personal choice and should be discussed with your urologist. Circumcision can reduce the risk of recurrent balanitis, especially if you have a tight foreskin or other anatomical issues. It can also simplify hygiene. However, it’s important to weigh the benefits and risks with your doctor.

Conclusion
In summary, it sounds like you are on the right path to recovery from balanitis. Continue to monitor your symptoms and maintain good hygiene practices. If you have any lingering concerns or if symptoms return, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation. Remember, open communication with your partner about your health is also vital for mutual understanding and support.

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