Redness and Swelling of the Glans: When to Seek Medical Advice

Glans swelling and redness?

Hello doctor, I had sexual intercourse the day before, and when I pulled back my foreskin to clean, I noticed that the area under the glans was red and swollen, with a line that only hurts a bit when I pull it back.
Normally, there is no sensation.
Urination is normal, but the part where the foreskin connects to the frenulum also hurts a little when touched.
Could this redness and swelling be caused by insufficient lubrication and constant friction? I usually have phimosis, and while erect, the foreskin remains over the glans, but during intercourse, I push the foreskin back to expose the glans.
Should I see a doctor for this condition, or will it heal on its own? Thank you.

Xiao P, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/05/18

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, you can enhance your cleaning routine over the next few days.
After cleaning, use petroleum jelly for the care of the glans.
If there is no improvement after three days, you should seek medical attention.
If you have any further questions, feel free to ask, and we can discuss and research together.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; if necessary, it is important to visit a medical facility.
This message is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of the Urology Department at Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2012/05/18

More Info

When it comes to redness and swelling of the glans (the head of the penis), it is essential to understand the potential causes and when to seek medical advice. Based on your description, it seems you experienced some discomfort following sexual activity, which has led to localized redness and swelling at the base of the glans. This condition can arise from several factors, including friction, irritation, or even an infection.

Possible Causes
1. Friction and Irritation: Engaging in sexual activity can sometimes lead to irritation, especially if there is insufficient lubrication. This can cause the skin to become red and swollen. If you are uncircumcised and have a tight foreskin (phimosis), this can exacerbate the issue as the skin may not retract easily, leading to increased friction during intercourse.

2. Infection: Conditions such as balanitis (inflammation of the glans) can occur due to bacterial or fungal infections. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, pain, and sometimes discharge. If you notice any unusual discharge or persistent pain, it could indicate an infection that requires medical attention.

3. Allergic Reaction: Sometimes, irritation can result from an allergic reaction to substances such as latex (from condoms), lubricants, or soaps. If you recently changed any products you use during sexual activity, this could be a contributing factor.

4. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Certain STIs can cause symptoms similar to what you are experiencing. If you have had unprotected sex or are unsure of your partner's sexual health, it is wise to consider this possibility.

When to Seek Medical Advice
Given your symptoms, here are some guidelines on when to seek medical attention:
- Persistent Symptoms: If the redness and swelling do not improve within a few days or worsen, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider.

- Severe Pain: If you experience significant pain, especially during urination or sexual activity, this warrants a medical evaluation.

- Discharge or Odor: Any unusual discharge (especially if it is yellow or green) or a foul odor can indicate an infection that requires treatment.

- Fever or Systemic Symptoms: If you develop a fever or other systemic symptoms, this could indicate a more serious infection.

- Changes in Urination: If you notice changes in your urination, such as increased frequency, urgency, or pain, it is essential to seek medical advice.

Conclusion
In your case, since you mentioned that the pain is only present when you manipulate the area and that urination is normal, it might be a mild irritation due to friction. However, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely. If you notice any worsening or additional symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough examination and may recommend treatments such as topical creams or medications if an infection is present.
In the meantime, consider using a water-based lubricant during sexual activity to reduce friction and irritation, and ensure that you maintain good hygiene. If you have concerns about your foreskin or if phimosis is a recurring issue, discussing this with a healthcare professional may provide further options for management.

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