Small Tears at the Glans and Foreskin Junction

Q: Small Tears at the Glans and Foreskin Junction

Assistant： Hello, based on your description, I believe there are several possibilities. <br><br>1. <br>Herpes, a viral infection that typically starts with small blisters that can rupture and lead to sores, sometimes accompanied by a secondary bacterial infection. <br>The carrier

Multiple small abrasions at the junction of the glans and the foreskin?

Hello, Dr.
Hsu.
I was browsing through many previous questions, but I couldn't find anything similar, so I'm reaching out to you.
Last week, I suddenly felt a slight pain in my glans.
Over the past few days, the pain has increased during intercourse with my wife, and the pain has also intensified while showering.
I checked and found four very small wounds, about 2mm each, at the junction of the glans and the foreskin, arranged side by side.
Is this just a mild tear? Could it be a sexually transmitted infection? I've only been with my wife, and we only have intercourse two to three times a week...
I haven't been to any hot springs or anything like that...
I would appreciate your response.
Thank you.

Li Zhu Li, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/09/17

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Assistant: Hello, based on your description, I believe there are several possibilities.

1.
Herpes, a viral infection that typically starts with small blisters that can rupture and lead to sores, sometimes accompanied by a secondary bacterial infection.
The carrier rate in Taiwan is quite high, exceeding 70%.
2.
Localized fungal infection, which often occurs due to excessive cleaning that removes natural oils, allowing fungi to thrive.
Generally, localized topical treatment is sufficient.
Sometimes, Candida from the vagina can be transmitted between partners, so it may be worth asking your wife if she has experienced increased vaginal discharge or similar issues.
3.
Trauma, which could be small injuries caused by sexual activity or other factors.
However, it is less common to have so many injuries; usually, there are only 1-2.
Additionally, injuries tend to be less uniform in size.
I believe it could be a localized infection, but to determine the specific pathogen, further examination may be necessary.
At this stage, avoid using very hot water for cleaning and minimize the use of strong soaps or cleaning products to prevent excessive irritation and larger wounds.
Department of Urology, Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taiwan
Director: Hsu Wei-Kai

Reply Date: 2005/09/17

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your question regarding the small tears at the junction of the glans and foreskin. Based on your description, it sounds like you are experiencing minor lacerations or fissures in that area, which can indeed be quite painful, especially during sexual activity or even while bathing.

These small tears can occur for several reasons. One common cause is friction or irritation, which may arise from sexual activity, particularly if there is insufficient lubrication. If the foreskin is pulled back too forcefully or if there is a lack of natural lubrication during intercourse, this can lead to small tears. Additionally, if there is any underlying inflammation or infection, this could exacerbate the issue.

In terms of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), while your symptoms could potentially be related to an STI, the presence of small tears alone does not necessarily indicate one. Common STIs such as herpes or genital warts can cause lesions, but they typically present differently. If you have been in a monogamous relationship and have not had any new partners, the risk of STIs is lower, but it is still important to consider this possibility, especially if you notice any unusual discharge, sores, or persistent pain.

It is also worth noting that conditions such as balanitis (inflammation of the glans) or posthitis (inflammation of the foreskin) can lead to similar symptoms. These conditions can be caused by irritants, infections, or even allergic reactions to soaps or hygiene products.

To address your concerns, here are a few recommendations:
1. Avoid Irritation: Try to avoid any activities that may further irritate the area, including vigorous sexual activity until the tears have healed.

2. Gentle Hygiene: Maintain good hygiene by gently cleaning the area with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh soaps or products that could irritate the skin.

3. Lubrication: If you resume sexual activity, consider using a water-based lubricant to reduce friction.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on the tears. If they do not improve within a few days, or if you notice any signs of infection (such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge), it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional.

5. Consult a Doctor: If the pain persists or worsens, or if you have any concerns about STIs, it is important to see a doctor. They may perform a physical examination and, if necessary, run tests to rule out infections or other underlying conditions.

In summary, while the small tears you are experiencing may be minor and related to friction or irritation, it is essential to monitor your symptoms and seek medical advice if they do not improve or if you have any concerns about STIs. Your health and comfort are important, and a healthcare professional can provide you with the best guidance tailored to your situation. Thank you for reaching out, and I hope you find relief soon!

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