A male genital skin condition can be stressful and uncomfortable. The symptoms may involve itchiness, rashes, pain, and may result in psychological distress. It is especially true for men who have partners. For such reasons, men need to keep up with their penile health status. Healthwise, a healthy penis facilitates proper sexual functioning, so it is imperative to take precautionary measures to avoid genital skin conditions. Here is everything you should know about it.
Causes Of Male Genital Skin Conditions
There are varying causes of male genital skin conditions, and one if it is age. For instance, Pearly Penile Papules or PPP is more common in men under 25. Besides age, some other conditions can be sexually transmitted or caused by a bacterial reaction from products used on your penile area. For instance, soap can cause irritation, resulting in skin conditions.
Other underlying conditions, such as diabetes, and high blood pressure may pose a threat. Most importantly, unhygienic practices are found to be among the top causes of penile skin condition. This is the reason why it is essential to maintain hygienic standards in your private parts for prevention.
Common Types Of Male Genital Skin Conditions
There are several male genital skin conditions. Some of them include the following:
- Pearly Penile Papules
They’re normal skin variations that appear on the penis glans. It can be white or yellow small bumps and dots, and is common among uncircumcised men. Most doctors find them harmless unless accompanied by other symptoms such as itchiness or pus. The bumps appear in rows around the penis glans and are commonly mistaken for genital warts or sexually transmitted infections. It is a common misconception, so it’s essential to learn the difference between PPP and STIs. If you’re not sure about the cause, it’d be best to consult a medical specialist and have them checked.
- Lichen Sclerosus
This skin condition is accompanied by shiny thin white patches. It can result in severe inflammatory skin irritation. It’s common in adults and can result in the loss of bladder control. The effects are so severe that they can cause tightness and difficulty retracting the foreskin. Men suffering from this penile skin condition might also have erection dysfunction and pain during intercourse. It is more dominant among uncircumcised men.
- Fordyce spots
They’re small bumps that appear in your genital area. Although they’re painless, they can still get itchy. Fordyce spots can bleed during intercourse.
- Balanitis
This skin condition mainly involves inflammation and irritation of the penis glans. Its inflammation can be caused by a bacterial infection or a yeast infection from soap or body washing detergents. It’s expected that 1 out of 25 men experiences it once in their lifetime. Its symptoms include pain when urinating, swollen glands, a thick, smelly discharge, and readiness of the penis tip. To mitigate this, you can change the products you use to wash your genital area or use ointments and moisturizing cream.
- Yeast Infection
In most cases, penile yeast infection is caused by a fungus that affects the skin. It results in redness around the genital area, and you can also notice some patches on the skin. Other symptoms of yeast infection include a burning sensation—especially when urinating—and some penile discharge. You can treat it with home remedies such as spreading yogurt on the affected area. However, it’s best to get the doctor’s advice before attempting self-treatment.
- Phimosis
Phimosis condition results in difficulty in retracting the foreskin. It’s more severe in babies since their skin is not tight. However, if the child gets to the adolescent stage but still suffers from the same issue, they should get it checked. Its treatment involves using steroid cream or circumcision if the cream isn’t found effective.
These are some of the common male genital skin conditions. Some of these conditions can be treated with a home remedy. But, instead of self-diagnoses, it’s best to seek professional medical help. A doctor is more knowledgeable to advise you on the dos and don’ts in treating these conditions. They can also give you some tips that come in handy in preventing it from happening again.
Treatment For The Conditions
The most logical thing to do is to get medical attention from a professional. Most conditions can be diagnosed through a medical assessment, where you’ll be given appropriate treatment. A dermatologist specializes in skin conditions, so they can examine the affected skin and provide a proper diagnosis.
Different conditions call for various measures. Some will be treated through some medication, while others need to go for minor surgery. There are also conditions that can clear on their own. But only specialists can tell whether which of these measures you are going to take.
Conclusion
Male genital skin conditions is a cause of psychological distress among men. Although they are best treated by experts, other factors—such as hygiene—can help reduce the chances of contracting certain infections. If you contact any of the conditions, it’d be best to have them checked. Don’t diagnose yourself as it may worsen the condition. Thus, seeking medical advice is essential when showing symptoms of male genital skin conditions.
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