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Medically Reviewed

By

Chrysoula I. Liakou

MD, PhD, Internal Medicine Specialist and
Cancer Immunology Researcher.

What Is Balanitis?

Balanitis is when the head of the penis, called the glans, becomes swollen, red, and irritated. This condition primarily affects people who have not been circumcised, meaning they still have their foreskin. Balanitis can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful, especially when urinating or when the foreskin feels tight. It can also lead to itchiness or a burning feeling.

 

Balanitis is usually not dangerous or contagious, meaning you can’t directly spread it to someone else. However, if an infection is the cause, you could pass that infection to a partner. Luckily, balanitis is often easy to treat. Washing the area gently, keeping it dry, and avoiding irritating products can help. Sometimes, doctors may prescribe creams or medication if the condition is more severe or keeps coming back.

 

While females can get similar inflammation of the clitoris, the term "balanitis" usually refers to the penis. Seeing a doctor early can prevent complications and make treatment simpler.

Balanitis Symptoms

Balanitis can be uncomfortable, and the symptoms may vary depending on the cause. Here’s what to look out for if you think you might have balanitis:

 

  • Redness and swelling: The head of the penis (glans) often becomes red and inflamed.

  • Itchy or irritated skin: There may be constant itching or a burning sensation around the glans.

  • Shiny or tight skin: The skin on the glans might look unusually smooth or stretched.

  • Rash or flaking: The area can have a rash that may be pink, red, scaly, or patchy.

  • Unpleasant smell: A foul odour can develop, often due to a thick discharge.

  • Thick, white discharge (smegma): A clumpy, lumpy discharge might be under the foreskin.

  • Pain or discomfort: It can hurt to touch the area, and urinating may be painful or cause a stinging sensation.

  • Difficulty pulling back the foreskin (phimosis): The foreskin can become tight, making it hard to retract.

  • Sores or blisters: Sometimes, small sores or blisters form around the head of the penis.

  • Swollen groin lymph nodes: The lymph nodes near the groin might swell up as a reaction to the inflammation.

 

These symptoms can make daily activities uncomfortable. If you notice any of them, seeking medical advice for proper treatment is best.

Balanitis Causes

Balanitis can develop for various reasons, including infections, skin conditions, and irritants. Knowing what causes balanitis can help you take steps to prevent it. Here are the leading causes:

 

  • Poor Hygiene: Not washing correctly under the foreskin can lead to bacteria, sweat, and dead skin buildup. However, overwashing or using harsh soaps can also irritate.

  • Fungal Infections: Candida (a type of yeast) is a common culprit, thriving in the warm, moist environment under the foreskin.

  • Bacterial Infections: Bacteria can quickly multiply under the foreskin, mainly if the area stays damp.

  • Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Infections like herpes or gonorrhoea can sometimes lead to balanitis.

  • Skin Conditions: Eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, and lichen planus can all cause irritation and inflammation of the glans.

  • Allergic Reactions: Some people are sensitive to latex in condoms, spermicides, or certain medications, which can cause swelling and redness.

  • Injuries Or Trauma: Damage to the glans or foreskin can trigger inflammation and make balanitis more likely.

  • Medical Conditions: Diabetes and other health problems can increase the risk of developing balanitis by affecting how the body fights infections.

  • Irritants: Products with perfumes, dyes, or harsh chemicals can irritate the sensitive skin of the penis.

 

Maintaining personal hygiene and avoiding potential irritants are essential steps to prevent balanitis.

Balanitis Treatment

Treating balanitis often starts with good hygiene. Keeping the area clean and dry is key. Wash the glans gently with lukewarm water, rinse under the foreskin if you have one, and pat it dry. Avoid soaps with perfumes or harsh chemicals, as these can worsen irritation. A mild, soap-free cleanser is a good alternative.

 

Sometimes, good hygiene isn’t enough, so additional treatments may be needed. Depending on the cause of balanitis, here are some common treatments:

 

  • Antifungal Creams: If balanitis is caused by a yeast infection, antifungal creams like clotrimazole or miconazole can help clear it up.

  • Steroid Creams: Mild steroid creams are often recommended to reduce inflammation and ease itching, especially for skin-related causes like eczema or psoriasis.

  • Antibiotics: Antibiotics may be prescribed if a bacterial infection or an STI is the cause. Your doctor will decide the best option depending on the type of infection.

  • Allergy Treatment: If balanitis is due to an allergic reaction, your doctor might recommend avoiding the triggering product and suggest alternative options, like latex-free condoms or different medications.

  • Saline Baths: A soak in a warm, saline (salt) solution can help soothe irritation and promote healing.

  • Diabetes Management: If you have diabetes, managing your blood sugar levels can prevent further episodes of balanitis.

 

For people with recurring balanitis or a tight foreskin (phimosis), a doctor might suggest circumcision to reduce future complications.

Balanitis Prevention

Preventing balanitis mostly comes down to good hygiene. Keeping the area clean and dry helps stop bacteria, sweat, and irritants buildup. Here are some simple tips to help prevent balanitis:

 

  • Wash Daily: Gently clean the glans and the area under the foreskin with warm water. If you use a cleanser, choose an unscented, soap-free one and rinse thoroughly. Avoid harsh soaps or products with strong fragrances that irritate the skin.

  • Dry Completely: After washing, dry the glans fully by gently patting (not rubbing) the area. Moisture can encourage bacteria and fungi to grow.

  • Pull Back The Foreskin: If you have a foreskin, pull it back gently when cleaning to make sure the area underneath is cleaned well. After washing and drying, pull the foreskin back into place.

  • Wash After Sexual Activity: If you often get balanitis after sex, wash your penis soon afterward to reduce irritation. Always use a condom during sexual activity to lower the risk of sexually transmitted infections.

  • Avoid Irritants: If certain products irritate, try to avoid them. Common irritants include condoms with spermicide, laundry detergents with solid perfumes, and lotions with dyes or chemicals. Opt for hypoallergenic products if possible.

  • Teach Good Hygiene Early: For younger boys, it’s important to teach proper hygiene as they grow. The foreskin doesn’t fully retract in children until later, so never force it. When pulling back is easy, teach them to clean underneath gently.

 

If you can’t pull your foreskin back comfortably, see a doctor rather than forcing it. These steps can help keep your skin healthy and reduce the risk of balanitis.

 

If you're dealing with balanitis, Mobi Doctor offers expert guidance and personalised treatment from the comfort of your home. Our caring professionals can provide the advice and care you need to feel better quickly and prevent future issues.

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