Painful Symptoms in Urology: Causes and Solutions

Q: Painful Symptoms in Urology: Causes and Solutions

Mr. <br>Chen： Hello, I would like to clarify a concept, which is that when there is a genital infection, both partners must be treated together. <br>Sometimes, if only one partner is treated and the other is not, the "pathogen" may not be eliminated, and during intercourse, it ca

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Hello, Dr.
Hsu: I would like to ask you about an issue I’ve been experiencing.
Two months ago, I had a bacterial infection (without any risky sexual behavior) that caused irritation and red spots on the glans.
After visiting the hospital, I took medication and applied ointment, and while it initially improved, it has since recurred.
I then purchased the ointment prescribed by the hospital from a pharmacy and used it for about a month.

Recently, the situation has worsened; this month, whenever I have intercourse with my wife, I experience severe pain at the frenulum of the glans and a small crack in the foreskin (which becomes more painful when it comes into contact with water).
I am afraid to engage in sexual activity (even with a condom), which has affected our sex life, and my wife has been complaining.

I’m wondering why this is happening, as I’ve never experienced this before.
Could you help me determine what the issue might be and whether it is related to the previous infection? Thank you!

Mr. Chen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/02/25

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Mr.
Chen: Hello, I would like to clarify a concept, which is that when there is a genital infection, both partners must be treated together.
Sometimes, if only one partner is treated and the other is not, the "pathogen" may not be eliminated, and during intercourse, it can be transmitted back to you.
This is because some pathogens only show symptoms in the male partner, while others only show symptoms in the female partner.
Therefore, I always emphasize that in such situations, both partners must undergo testing, and if necessary, both must be treated together.
Your situation seems very much like a fungal infection, and to eliminate it is quite simple: first, ask your wife if she has been experiencing increased vaginal discharge or any unusual odor; if so, she needs to see a gynecologist or urologist for treatment.
Secondly, do you personally pay close attention to the cleanliness of your penis and often use soap to wash it? If that is the case, then...
that is a big mistake because it can easily lead to infections of the foreskin.
The correct method is to clean with plain water most of the time.
When it is dirtier, apply a small amount of soap to your palm, dilute it with some water, and then gently apply this diluted soap to the foreskin and glans, rinsing it off immediately with clean water.
Alternatively, you can use body wash (like "Dove" or similar), preferably one that feels slippery, as if it hasn't been completely rinsed off.
After showering, applying a little baby lotion or similar oil can also help inhibit fungal growth (since fungi do not thrive in oily environments, for example, they rarely grow on the face).
As for whether this is related to the previous infection, I think if your wife's infection source has not been eliminated, there is a possibility of recurrence.
It could also be due to an injury, and if you frequently use stronger soaps, it may cause the wound to never fully heal, appearing intact on the surface but easily breaking open with slight contact.

Department of Urology, Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai.

Reply Date: 2005/02/25

More Info

Hello! Thank you for sharing your concerns regarding the painful symptoms you are experiencing. Based on your description, it sounds like you may be dealing with a combination of issues that could be related to a previous infection and possibly other underlying conditions.

Firstly, the symptoms you describe, such as the redness and pain in the glans (the head of the penis) and the presence of a small crack in the foreskin, suggest that you might be experiencing a condition known as balanitis, which is an inflammation of the glans. This can often be caused by infections, including bacterial or fungal infections, and can also be exacerbated by irritants such as soaps, lotions, or even friction during sexual activity. The recurrence of symptoms after treatment could indicate that the initial infection was not fully resolved or that there are other contributing factors, such as hygiene practices or sensitivity to certain materials (like latex in condoms).

The pain you experience during intercourse, particularly at the frenulum (the band of tissue on the underside of the penis), could be due to several reasons. One possibility is that the area is still inflamed or sensitive from the previous infection, which can make it more susceptible to pain during sexual activity. Additionally, if there is a small tear or crack in the skin, any friction or pressure during intercourse could exacerbate the pain, leading to a reluctance to engage in sexual activity.

It's also worth considering the psychological aspect of your symptoms. Pain during intercourse can lead to anxiety about sexual performance, which can create a cycle of fear and avoidance. This can further impact your sexual relationship with your partner, leading to frustration and misunderstandings.

Given your history of infection and the current symptoms, I would recommend the following steps:
1. Consult a Urologist: It’s essential to see a urologist for a thorough examination. They can assess the condition of your glans and foreskin, check for any signs of infection, and determine if there are any other underlying issues, such as a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or a dermatological condition.

2. Avoid Self-Medicating: While it may be tempting to continue using over-the-counter creams or ointments, it’s crucial to have a healthcare professional evaluate your condition first. Self-treatment can sometimes mask symptoms or lead to further irritation.

3. Hygiene Practices: Ensure that you maintain proper hygiene, especially in the genital area. Gentle washing with mild soap and water can help, but avoid harsh soaps or products that may irritate the skin.

4. Communication with Your Partner: Discuss your symptoms and concerns with your wife. Open communication can help alleviate some of the stress and anxiety surrounding your sexual relationship. It’s important for both partners to understand what’s happening and to approach intimacy with care and patience.

5. Consider Psychological Support: If anxiety about sexual performance is affecting your relationship, consider speaking with a therapist or counselor who specializes in sexual health. They can provide strategies to manage anxiety and improve communication with your partner.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be related to a previous infection, there could be multiple factors at play. A thorough evaluation by a urologist will be crucial in determining the exact cause of your pain and guiding you toward the appropriate treatment. Remember, addressing these issues early can help prevent further complications and improve your quality of life. Best wishes for your health and well-being!

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