What is balanitis, why is caused and how to prevent it?

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Balanitis is a skin irritation on the head of the penis that can affect men and boys. It’s not usually serious, but you should see your GP if you think you or your son has balanitis.

Symptoms

  • A sore, itchy and smelly penis
  • Redness and swelling
  • Build-up of thick fluid
  • Pain when peeing

Treatment

  • Most cases of balanitis are easily treated with good hygiene and creams and ointments recommended by your GP.
  • If you have balanitis, you should clean your penis daily with lukewarm water and gently dry it.
  • Don’t use soap, bubble bath, shampoo or any other potential irritant.
  • Dry gently under the foreskin after peeing.
  • Try a soap substitute like an emollient, available from a pharmacy.

Causes

  • Poor hygiene, leading to a build-up of smegma
  • Irritation under the foreskin caused by pee
  • Soaps, shower gels, and other skin irritants
  • Thrush
  • A bacterial infection
  • A sexually transmitted infection (STI)
  • Skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, and lichen sclerosus
  • Children fiddling with their foreskin

Prevention

You can reduce your chances of getting balanitis by:

  • Keeping your penis clean
  • Avoiding harsh soaps and other skin irritants
  • Using soap substitutes, such as an emollient
  • Practicing safe sex to avoid an STI
  • Using latex-free condoms if you have a latex allergy

Citation: nhs.uk

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