It's never a good sign to experience pain in your genitals, but it's not always something serious. Many different things can cause pain in the penis, including infections, skin conditions, injury, and other medical issues. If the pain is severe, persistent, or not resolving after a few treatments from your doctor, it may be time to see a specialist.

In many cases, however, minor pain in the penis can simply be caused by stress or overuse. If you notice any unusual changes in penile pain, such as pain during urination or while having sex, it's important to see a doctor for an evaluation.

Genital pain is a very broad term and can encompass a number of different issues. If you're experiencing any unusual or severe pain in your penis, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

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What Is Making My Penis Hurt? 6 Reasons Why

The most common causes of penis pain can typically be diagnosed with a quick doctor’s visit. You should always seek medical advice from your doctor and avoid self-diagnosing.

1. A Urinary Tract Infection

A UTI is a common infection that can affect the urinary tract. It most commonly occurs when bacteria from the vagina or penis get into the urethra (the tube leading from the bladder to the outside of the body). Symptoms include a burning sensation when you urinate, fever, and an excessive urge to pee. A UTI may also cause pain in the penis.

UTI Symptoms:

• A burning sensation when you urinate
• Fever
• An excessive urge to pee
  

UTI Treatments:

Urinary tract antibiotics are the most common treatment for a UTI. These medications will kill the bacteria that caused the infection, and may also relieve symptoms such as pain in the penis. If you have a persistent or severe UTI, your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic to be taken every day.

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2. Irritation

Sometimes, the penis can become irritated due to a variety of causes. This may include a UTI (as mentioned above), dryness, irritation from clothing or other materials touching the skin near the penis, allergies to new body wash, washing machine detergents, or latex, metals like copper or nickel, or other chemicals.

Penis Irritation Symptoms:

• Redness or swelling around the penis
• Itching and discomfort in the area around the penis
• Peeing frequently even after infections have cleared up
• Skin peeling
• Rash
  

Penis Irritation Treatments: There is not always a specific treatment for penis irritation. However, over-the-counter treatments such as ibuprofen or calamine lotion can help relieve symptoms. If the irritation is severe, your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic to clear up the infection and reduce the symptoms.

If an allergy is suspected, stop the use of any new products and see a doctor. Some of the new products that can cause penis irritation include: soap, body wash, shampoos, and conditioners containing gluten or other ingredients.

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3. Sexually Transmitted Infections

STIs is a term used to describe infections that can be spread through sexual contact. These infections can range in seriousness, from mild UTIs to more serious STDs such as HIV or hepatitis C. STIs can also lead to other health problems, including PID (pelvic inflammatory disease), and infertility.

Common STIs and Their Symptoms:

• Gonorrhea - Red, watery, and foul-smelling discharge from the penis. Pain when urinating.
• Chlamydia - Sexual pain, discharge from the penis or vagina, and a feeling of burning when urinating.
• Hepatitis C - Jaundice (a yellowing of the skin), fever, fatigue, pale stools, clay-colored bowel movements, nausea, and vomiting.
  

STI Treatment: There is no one cure for STIs, and treatment will vary depending on the type of infection. Antiviral drugs may be used to treat HPV (human papillomavirus), which can cause cervical cancer. Treatment for hepatitis C often includes medication and counseling directed at preventing future infections.

If you think that you have contracted an STI, it is important to get tested. Testing can help identify the type of infection and provide treatment if necessary.

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4. Paraphimosis

Paraphimosis is an uncommon condition in which the foreskin (a fold of skin that covers the head of the penis) becomes tightly stuck over the glans (the hardened end of the penis). The trapped flesh can cause pain and swelling, as well as difficulty urinating.

Symptoms Of Paraphimosis:

• Difficulty urinating
• Pain and swelling in the penis
• Reduced blood flow to the glans of the penis
• Foreskin that is pulled too tightly over the glans
  

Paraphimosis Treatment: Urgent treatment is necessary to relieve symptoms of paraphimosis. The first step is usually a mild squeeze on the penis just below where the foreskin meets the glans in order for urine and debris (uid) to escape. If this does not work, your doctor may need to surgically release the trapped foreskin.

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5. Prostatitis

Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate. The most common cause of prostatitis is a viral infection, such as herpes simplex virus (HSV) or human papillomavirus (HPV). Other causes include bacteria, autoimmune disorders, and irritation from urinary products (such as diuretics).

Prostatitis Symptoms:

• Pain in the lower back, side, or below the ribcage when you urinate
• Urinary frequency (watering more frequently than normal)
• Reduced flow of urine during a stream or weak dribble
• Pain when you press on the prostate gland

Prostatitis Treatments: A variety of treatments are available for prostatitis. These may include antibiotics, pain relief medications, and surgery. In some cases, treatment requires ongoing care throughout a person's lifetime, but this is rare. People with prostatitis may also experience difficulty achieving an erection, reduced sexual function, and a decreased quality of life, if they avoid treatment. It's important to seek medical help if you experience any of these symptoms.

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6. Penile Fracture

A penile fracture is a break in the shaft of your penis. It can occur from sudden impact, such as during sexual activity or when the penis slips out of bounds while being worn. A broken penis may cause pain and difficulty urinating. If you expect that y our penis may have a fracture, you may be right. The pain is severe and is accompanied by bruising and swelling.

Penile Fracture Symptoms:

• Pain and difficulty urinating
• Bruising and swelling
• Constant ache and pain, sharp or dull
• Black, purple, or red discoloration around the penis
  

Penile Fracture Treatments: Most penile fractures can be treated with a splint or cast. A splint keeps the broken parts of the penis in place and may help to reduce pain and swelling. If the fracture is severe, surgery may be required to fix it properly.

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Conclusion

Pain in the genitals is never something to ignore. While many men feel uncomfortable seeing a doctor for treatment, untreated pain can lead to more serious issues, such as a UTI or a penile fracture. If you experience pain in your penis that doesn't go away with treatment, see your doctor for an evaluation.