Phimosis: Managing Head Pain and Hygiene Issues - Urology

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Glans issues


Hello Doctor: I have phimosis, and recently while showering, I noticed that my glans was exposed.
There is a wound on the glans, which I have attached a picture of.
It may have been caused by frequent masturbation last week.
I thought it would heal on its own, but it doesn't seem to be getting better.
If I remain in a state of phimosis, it seems to cause a white discharge and an unpleasant odor.
Should I keep the glans exposed to prevent it from being covered? What ointment would be best to use? Would Vaseline be sufficient?

A Jie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/19

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology


A-Jie: Hello, it looks like you might have a fungal infection.
In addition to following the local cleaning and care advice I previously provided to other users, I recommend applying some antibacterial ointment.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; if necessary, you should visit a medical facility for treatment.
This message is from the Department of Urology, Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, and is a response from Director Hsu Wei-Kai.

Reply Date: 2015/12/19

More Info


Phimosis, the condition where the foreskin cannot be easily retracted over the glans (the head of the penis), can lead to various complications, including hygiene issues and pain. Your description of experiencing pain and noticing a wound on the glans, possibly due to frequent masturbation, indicates that you may be dealing with irritation or a minor injury. Additionally, the presence of a white discharge and odor suggests that there may be an infection or inflammation, which is not uncommon in cases of phimosis.

First and foremost, it is essential to maintain proper hygiene, especially if you are experiencing symptoms like discharge and odor. If you are unable to retract the foreskin fully, it can create a warm, moist environment that is conducive to bacterial growth. Here are some recommendations to manage your condition:
1. Hygiene: It is crucial to clean the area gently. If you cannot retract the foreskin, try to clean the external parts with mild soap and water daily. Avoid using harsh soaps or scrubbing too hard, as this can exacerbate irritation.

2. Avoid Irritants: If you have a wound, avoid any activities that could further irritate the area, such as vigorous masturbation or sexual activity until the area has healed.
3. Topical Treatments: While some people may consider using petroleum jelly (like Vaseline) to keep the area moisturized, it is not typically recommended for wounds or infections. Instead, you might want to consider using a topical antibiotic ointment (like Neosporin) on the affected area to prevent infection, but only after consulting with a healthcare professional.
4. Consult a Doctor: Given your symptoms, it is advisable to see a healthcare provider, preferably a urologist. They can assess the wound, determine if there is an infection, and provide appropriate treatment. They may also discuss options for managing phimosis, which could include stretching exercises, topical steroids, or, in some cases, surgical intervention (such as circumcision) if the condition is severe or recurrent.

5. Avoiding Complications: If left untreated, phimosis can lead to complications such as balanitis (inflammation of the glans), recurrent infections, or scarring. Therefore, addressing the issue sooner rather than later is crucial.

6. Lifestyle Adjustments: If you find that frequent masturbation is causing irritation, consider moderating the frequency to allow the area to heal.
In summary, while it may be tempting to wait for the wound to heal on its own, it is essential to take proactive steps to manage hygiene and seek professional advice. Proper care and treatment can help prevent further complications and ensure that you maintain good genital health.

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