Penile Pain After Masturbation: Causes and Solutions

Pain in the glans after masturbation?

The process is as follows: once, while I was masturbating, I applied gentle pressure and suddenly felt a sharp pain in the glans.
I paused, thinking it was just a brief discomfort, and continued until ejaculation.
That day, I still felt pain in the glans, especially when my pants pressed against it while sleeping, causing a dull ache.
I didn't think much of it until the next day, and now it's been almost a week, and the pain persists (I haven't masturbated during this time).

To describe the pain, it is very mild and localized (mainly on the left side of the glans).
It doesn't hurt all the time; usually, it occurs when I accidentally touch or rub that area.
For instance, when I pull my penis out from the right side of my pants, the momentary friction causes pain.
Each episode of pain lasts only a moment.
If I intentionally touch or rub the area, I also feel noticeable pain.
There are no visible wounds on the surface.
Although it’s not very painful, any touch causes slight discomfort, which is concerning.

In the past few days, I have tried masturbating again, and all functions seem normal.
During an erection, aside from the pain in the glans, I also experience pain when touching the shaft.
I try not to apply too much pressure, but I still gradually increase until ejaculation.
Urination does not hurt, and there is no blood.
Now, after 2 or 3 days of abstaining, the pain remains.
It doesn’t seem to be getting worse, but it also doesn’t go away, which is troubling.

I would like to ask how to resolve this issue.
Is it okay to continue masturbating, or should I rest for a longer period? Since the pain doesn’t feel severe, I’m unsure if I should see a doctor, or if anyone knows what symptoms these might indicate and how to handle them.
I am asking because I have a relatively high sex drive, typically masturbating 7 to 8 times a week.
Doctor, do you have any idea what this problem might be?

NoNo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/08/28

Dr. Fu Shizhang reply Urology

There's nothing to worry about; just take a longer rest.

Reply Date: 2015/08/28

More Info

Experiencing penile pain after masturbation can be concerning, and it's important to understand the potential causes and solutions. Based on your description, it seems that you have been experiencing localized pain in the left side of the glans (the head of the penis) after a seemingly mild episode of masturbation. The pain has persisted for about a week, and while it is not severe, it is noticeable enough to cause discomfort during certain movements or touches.

Possible Causes of Penile Pain
1. Minor Trauma or Irritation: It is possible that during masturbation, even with gentle pressure, you may have caused minor trauma or irritation to the sensitive tissues of the glans. This could lead to localized pain that might not be visible externally.

2. Nerve Sensitivity: The glans is rich in nerve endings, and sometimes, even minor irritation can lead to heightened sensitivity or pain. This could explain why you feel pain upon touch or friction.

3. Infection or Inflammation: Although you mentioned there are no visible wounds, conditions such as balanitis (inflammation of the glans) or a mild infection could cause discomfort. These conditions might not always present with obvious symptoms like redness or swelling.

4. Peyronie's Disease: Although less likely given your symptoms, Peyronie's disease involves the development of fibrous scar tissue inside the penis, which can cause pain and curvature. However, this typically presents with more pronounced symptoms.

5. Psychological Factors: Anxiety or stress related to sexual performance or health concerns can sometimes manifest as physical symptoms, including pain.

Recommendations for Management
1. Rest and Avoidance: It may be beneficial to take a break from masturbation and any activities that could irritate the area. Allowing time for any potential irritation to heal is crucial.

2. Gentle Hygiene: Maintain good hygiene practices. Gently clean the area with mild soap and water, and avoid any harsh chemicals or irritants.

3. Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relief medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help alleviate discomfort. However, consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

4. Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress to the area may help reduce any inflammation or discomfort. Ensure that the compress is wrapped in a cloth to avoid direct contact with the skin.

5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms. If the pain persists beyond a couple of weeks, worsens, or if you develop additional symptoms (such as discharge, fever, or significant swelling), it is advisable to seek medical attention.

6. Consult a Healthcare Provider: If the pain continues or if you have concerns about your sexual health, it is important to consult a healthcare provider. They can perform a physical examination and may recommend further tests if necessary.

Conclusion
While your symptoms may not seem severe, it is essential to listen to your body. Taking a break from activities that cause discomfort, practicing good hygiene, and monitoring your symptoms are key steps in managing your condition. If the pain persists or worsens, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Remember, maintaining sexual health is important, and addressing any concerns early can lead to better outcomes.

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