What Is a Penile Infection & How Is It Treated?

Penile infections are a common but often overlooked aspect of men’s health. They can result from bacterial, fungal, or viral sources and may significantly affect one’s comfort, confidence, and overall well-being if left untreated. This article explores the types, symptoms, causes, and treatment options for penile infections, as well as why it is essential to seek expert care early.

Understanding Penile Infections

A penile infection refers to any inflammation or infection affecting the penis, commonly involving the glans (head), foreskin, or shaft. It may present varying symptoms depending on the underlying cause, which may include bacterial, viral, or fungal infections.

Common Symptoms of a Penile Infection

Symptoms of a penile infection can range from mild irritation to more serious discomfort. Common associated signs may include:

• Redness or swelling of the penis
• Pain or discomfort during urination or intercourse
• Unusual discharge from the urethra
• Foul odour
• Itching, rash, or sores
• Difficulty retracting the foreskin (in uncircumcised men)

If you notice any of these signs, it is important to consult a qualified doctor for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Types and Causes of Penile Infections

Penile infections can be categorised based on their causes. Understanding these types and their causes is essential for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

1. Bacterial Infections

Bacterial infections such as balanitis or urethritis are often caused by poor hygiene, sexually transmitted bacteria (e.g., gonorrhoea or chlamydia), or irritation from products like soaps or lubricants.

2. Fungal Infections

A common fungal infection affecting the penis is candidiasis (yeast infection), which is more prevalent in men with diabetes, uncircumcised men, or those using antibiotics.

3. Viral Infections

Sexually transmitted viruses like herpes simplex virus (HSV) or human papillomavirus (HPV) can result in penile irritation, blisters, or warts.

4. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Many STIs cause penile infections, making STD screening a vital part of men’s healthcare. Visit our Penile Infection Treatment page for more on STI-related causes.

Risk Factors

Several factors can increase a person's susceptibility to penile infections. These risk factors often involve hygiene, sexual practices, and underlying health conditions. Key risk factors include:

• Unprotected sex
• Poor genital hygiene
• Diabetes or immune-compromised conditions
• Use of irritants (soaps, powders)
• Not being circumcised
• Sharing towels or underwear

How is a Penile Infection Diagnosed?

At Dr Tan Medical Center, a thorough and evidence-based approach is employed to diagnose penile infections. This may include:

• Physical Examination: This involves a comprehensive evaluation of the penis and surrounding areas to identify visible signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, sores, or discharge.
• Urethral Swab Tests: If urethritis (inflammation of the urethra) is suspected, a swab may be taken from the urethra to collect fluid or cells for laboratory analysis, helping to identify specific bacteria (e.g., gonorrhea, chlamydia).
• Urine Tests: A urine sample may be collected to check for infection, inflammation, or other abnormalities.
• Blood Tests: Blood tests may be necessary to screen for systemic infections, particularly sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like HIV and syphilis.
• STD/STI Screening: Dr Tan may recommend a comprehensive STD/STI screening, even if specific symptoms are present, to check for multiple infections, as co-infections are common.

Patient privacy and discretion are prioritised throughout every consultation.

Treatment Options of Penile Infection

The treatment of penile infections is tailored to the specific underlying cause. Prompt and appropriate therapy is crucial, not only to alleviate symptoms but also to prevent complications and further transmission, particularly in cases of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The following are the main treatment approaches:

• Topical Creams & Antifungals

  Used for yeast or fungal infections, these help reduce inflammation and eliminate the infection.

• Oral Antibiotics or Antivirals

  Prescribed for bacterial STIs or herpes, these target the infection at the source.

• In-Clinic Procedures

  In severe cases, minor procedures or circumcision (in recurrent balanitis) may be advised.

Prevention Tips

With proactive measures, penile infections are highly preventable. Here are some tips to reduce the risk of its development.

• Practice good genital hygiene
• Use condoms during sexual activity
• Avoid harsh soaps or powders
• Stay hydrated and maintain overall health
• Get regular STD/STI screenings

Don’t Ignore the Signs of Penile Infections

Penile infections can cause significant discomfort and may be linked to underlying STIs or health conditions. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to avoiding long-term complications. If you notice unusual symptoms, don’t delay—seek medical attention today.

Meet Our Doctor

Dr Tan Kok Kuan is a dedicated doctor specialising in sexual health, including HIV/AIDS. With over 20 years of clinical experience, he offers confidential, precise, and discreet HIV screening and treatment services. Notably, Dr Tan was one of the key authors of Singapore’s National HIV PrEP Guidelines and the national Blueprint to end HIV transmission by 2030.