Pain During Intercourse: A Urology Perspective for Young Men

Regarding pain during insertion?

Hello Doctor: I am a 19-year-old college freshman.
When I was 18, I bought a masturbation sleeve to use.
Every time I use it, I apply enough lubricant, but I experience pain in the glans during insertion.
When I slightly squeeze the area near the urethral opening at the tip of the glans, I often feel pain in the urethra.
Previously, I saw a doctor who diagnosed me with prostatitis, and I took medication for a while, but it didn't improve.
Recently, during winter break, I visited another clinic, but I still haven't seen any improvement.
I would like to know what might be going on.
By the way, when I visited a large hospital before, a doctor told me that my glans looked healthy, but I clearly feel discomfort.
Additionally, I had phimosis when I was in sixth grade, but it gradually resolved on its own.
I have been exposing the glans to reduce sensitivity.

lan nan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/15

Dr. Fu Shizhang reply Urology

Balanitis or urethritis may present with symptoms of glans pain, and prostatitis could also be a possibility.
Online consultations cannot replace an in-person evaluation and physical examination by a physician.
It is still recommended to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility if there are any health concerns.

Reply Date: 2016/03/15

More Info

Understanding pain during intercourse, especially for young men, can be a complex issue that involves various physiological and psychological factors. As a 19-year-old college student who has experienced pain during masturbation and intercourse, it is important to explore the potential causes of your discomfort and the steps you can take to address it.

Firstly, it is essential to recognize that pain during sexual activities can stem from several sources. In your case, you mentioned experiencing pain in the glans (the head of the penis) and discomfort near the urethral opening. This could be related to several factors, including:
1. Sensitivity and Irritation: The glans can be particularly sensitive, especially if it has been covered for a long time due to conditions like phimosis (tight foreskin). Even if you have gradually exposed the glans, it may still be sensitive to friction or pressure during sexual activities. Using adequate lubrication is crucial, but if the sensitivity persists, it might be worth considering whether the type of lubricant is suitable for you or if you need to explore other options.

2. Infection or Inflammation: You mentioned a previous diagnosis of prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate gland). This condition can lead to pelvic pain and discomfort during sexual activities. If the symptoms have not improved despite treatment, it may be necessary to revisit your healthcare provider for further evaluation. Other potential infections, such as urethritis (inflammation of the urethra), could also cause pain during intercourse and should be ruled out.

3. Psychological Factors: Anxiety and stress related to sexual performance or past experiences can contribute to physical discomfort. If you feel anxious about pain during intercourse, this may create a cycle of tension that exacerbates the issue. It might be helpful to discuss these feelings with a therapist or counselor who specializes in sexual health.

4. Technique and Positioning: Sometimes, the way sexual activities are performed can lead to discomfort. Experimenting with different positions or techniques may help reduce friction and pressure on sensitive areas. Communication with your partner about what feels comfortable and what does not is also essential.

5. Medical Evaluation: Since you have seen multiple healthcare providers without a resolution, it may be beneficial to seek a urologist's opinion. A thorough examination, including a physical assessment and possibly imaging studies, can help identify any underlying issues that may not have been previously addressed.
In terms of management, here are some recommendations:
- Continue Using Lubrication: Ensure you are using a high-quality, water-based lubricant to minimize friction. Avoid products that contain irritants or allergens.

- Gradual Exposure: If sensitivity is an issue, consider gradually increasing exposure to different sensations. This can help desensitize the area over time.

- Pelvic Floor Exercises: Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles through exercises like Kegels may help improve control and reduce discomfort.

- Follow-Up with Healthcare Providers: If symptoms persist, don't hesitate to seek further medical advice. It may take time to find the right treatment or approach that works for you.

In conclusion, pain during intercourse can be multifactorial, and understanding the underlying causes is crucial for effective management. Open communication with healthcare providers and partners, along with a willingness to explore different strategies, can lead to improved sexual health and comfort. Remember, you are not alone in this experience, and seeking help is a positive step towards resolution.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Pelvic Pain: Causes and Concerns in Young Men

Hello, doctor. I have recently experienced pain in my pelvic region. Here are the details: I seem to be someone who easily gets an erection; when I hug and kiss my girlfriend, I can maintain an erection for about 1 to 2 hours, and I have not had any sexual experience yet. Just th...

Dr. Liu Jianting reply Urology
That's great! It's a normal reaction for young people in their twenties, so there's nothing to worry about! Just make sure not to let the little buddy work for too long next time.

Understanding Scrotal Pain: Causes and Solutions for Young Men

Doctor, I have a question. Since high school (around 16 or 17 years old) and now at 23, every time I experience an erection but cannot engage in sexual intercourse, my penis remains erect for over ten minutes, and afterwards, my scrotum becomes extremely painful. Touching my test...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Jack: Hello, your symptoms may be due to prolonged erection, which can cause tension in the muscles and nerves. However, other causes cannot be ruled out. The absence of ejaculation can sometimes lead to localized pain; applying a warm towel for heat therapy may help prevent subs...

Understanding Pain During Intercourse: Causes and Solutions

During intercourse, the male genitalia experiences pain upon initial penetration, which subsides afterward. This is not the first occurrence; adequate foreplay and lubrication are provided, yet there is still pain at the moment of entry. The frequency of sexual activity is approx...

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
During intercourse, the male genitalia experiences pain upon initial penetration, which subsides afterward. This is not the first occurrence; adequate foreplay and lubrication have been provided, yet there is still pain upon entry. The frequency of sexual activity is approximatel...

Painful Urination: Could It Be a Sign of STDs?

At the beginning of urination, there is pain in the glans, sometimes accompanied by a burning sensation, and there is also a sharp pain during ejaculation. There was a one-night stand a month ago. Could this possibly be a sexually transmitted infection (STI)?

Dr. Li Yilun reply Urology
It is essential to note that a simple description cannot determine the condition of any potential lesions. It is advisable to consult a professional physician for diagnosis and examination to avoid any delay in treatment. Physicians often need to conduct a thorough medical histor...