Urethral Pain: Concerns About Healing and Treatment

Q: Urethral Pain: Concerns About Healing and Treatment

Xiao Jie： Hello, it may be that the wound has healed, but the nerves have not completely recovered yet. <br>Since you have already seen a doctor and they believe there is no infection, just wait for the recovery to progress slowly. <br>Local heat application should be helpful. <b

Continuing from the previous question (urethra)?

Doctor Xu, may I ask: if I do not have frequent erections, will that be okay? Because I have a wound in the mid-shaft of the penis.
I do not feel pain when urinating or during ejaculation, but I do experience some pain when it is touched.
I have visited a urologist who performed a urinalysis, and the doctor said there were no signs of inflammation.
Previously, I was prescribed orange antibiotics and some medication for streptococcus, but now the doctor says I no longer need to take them.
However, sometimes when I touch the wound on my penis when I am not erect, it hurts.
The doctor mentioned it could be skin or nerve pain, and if there were any inflammation or pus, it would have shown up in the urinalysis by now.
I am very worried about not recovering.
Is it possible that I won't get better? If I need surgery in the future and have to have a catheter inserted, will that cause further damage (this is more important)? Thank you!

Xiao Jie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/11/22

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Xiao Jie: Hello, it may be that the wound has healed, but the nerves have not completely recovered yet.
Since you have already seen a doctor and they believe there is no infection, just wait for the recovery to progress slowly.
Local heat application should be helpful.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further.
This message is from the Department of Urology, Director Xu Wei-Kai, Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2011/11/22

More Info

Urethral pain can be a distressing condition, and it’s understandable that you have concerns about healing and treatment. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing localized pain in the mid-shaft of the penis, particularly when touched, but not during urination or ejaculation. This suggests that the pain may not be related to a urinary tract infection (UTI) or inflammation, especially since your urine tests have come back normal.

Understanding Urethral Pain
Urethral pain can arise from various causes, including trauma, nerve irritation, or skin conditions. In your case, since you mentioned a specific injury, it is possible that the pain is due to nerve damage or irritation in the area where the injury occurred. This type of pain can sometimes be categorized as neuropathic pain, which can persist even after the initial injury has healed.

Healing Process
Regarding your question about whether infrequent erections will aid in healing, it’s important to understand that the healing process can vary from person to person. If the pain is related to nerve irritation or damage, reducing the frequency of erections might help minimize discomfort, but it is not a guaranteed method for healing. The body has its own timeline for recovery, and factors such as blood flow, nerve regeneration, and tissue healing all play a role.

Treatment Options
1. Pain Management: Since your doctor has indicated that the pain may be due to skin or nerve issues, pain management strategies may be beneficial. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate discomfort. If the pain persists, your healthcare provider may consider prescribing medications specifically for nerve pain, such as gabapentin or pregabalin.

2. Physical Therapy: In some cases, physical therapy focused on pelvic floor rehabilitation can be helpful. A physical therapist with experience in pelvic pain can provide exercises and techniques to help alleviate pain and improve function.

3. Avoiding Irritants: It may be beneficial to avoid any activities that could irritate the area, including tight clothing or vigorous sexual activity until the pain subsides.

4. Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up with your urologist is essential. If the pain does not improve or worsens, further evaluation may be necessary. This could include imaging studies or referrals to specialists in pain management or urology.

Concerns About Surgery and Catheterization
You expressed concern about the potential for further injury if a catheter is needed during surgery. It is valid to be apprehensive about this, especially if you are already experiencing pain. Generally, healthcare providers take precautions to minimize discomfort and avoid aggravating existing injuries during procedures. Discussing your concerns with your surgeon before any planned procedure is crucial. They can explain the steps they will take to protect the area and manage pain effectively.

Conclusion
In summary, while urethral pain can be concerning, many individuals experience improvement over time with appropriate management. It is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and any changes you experience. If you have ongoing concerns about healing or the potential for further injury, do not hesitate to seek a second opinion or further evaluation. Your health and comfort are paramount, and there are various strategies available to help manage your pain and promote healing.

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