White Discharge and Itching Under the Foreskin

Itchy foreskin with white discharge?

I have been experiencing white discharge under the foreskin covering the glans for the past two to three weeks, and there is itching near the corona of the foreskin.
Three weeks ago, I had swelling of the foreskin during sexual intercourse, which later subsided.
What could be the cause?

Jia, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/11/13

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, it is possible that localized inflammation is causing an increase in smegma.
It is recommended to enhance local hygiene.
If the condition continues to worsen, it may be associated with an infection, and medical attention should be sought.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again for further discussion and research.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; if necessary, it is important to visit a healthcare facility.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare Taitung Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2015/11/13

More Info

Understanding the symptoms you are experiencing is crucial for determining the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. The presence of white discharge and itching under the foreskin can be indicative of several conditions, most commonly related to infections or irritations.

One potential cause of your symptoms is a condition known as balanitis, which is inflammation of the glans (the head of the penis) and can occur when the area is not kept clean. This can lead to the accumulation of smegma, a substance made up of dead skin cells, oils, and other bodily secretions, which can appear as a white discharge. Balanitis can be caused by poor hygiene, irritants (such as soaps or lotions), or infections, including fungal infections like candidiasis (yeast infection) or bacterial infections.

Another possibility is a sexually transmitted infection (STI), which can also cause similar symptoms. If you have had unprotected sexual contact, it is essential to consider this as a potential cause. STIs such as gonorrhea or chlamydia can lead to discharge and irritation, and they require specific treatments.

In your case, the swelling you experienced during sexual activity could have been a sign of irritation or an allergic reaction, which may have led to the current symptoms of itching and discharge. It is also worth noting that some individuals may have a sensitivity to certain products, such as lubricants or condoms, which can cause localized irritation.

To address your symptoms, it is advisable to maintain good hygiene by gently cleaning the area with warm water and avoiding harsh soaps or irritants. If the symptoms persist or worsen, it is crucial to seek medical attention from a healthcare provider. They can perform a physical examination, take a medical history, and possibly conduct tests to determine the exact cause of your symptoms. Depending on the diagnosis, treatments may include topical antifungal or antibacterial medications, or in the case of STIs, appropriate antibiotics.

In summary, while your symptoms may be due to a benign condition like balanitis or smegma accumulation, they could also indicate an infection or an STI. Therefore, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can help prevent complications and ensure a swift recovery.

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