Carle Jasmin (Image: AI / Gay Globe)
Balanitis is a relatively minor health issue, but it can affect almost any man, regardless of age. However, minor does not mean without consequences: balanitis can cause severe, painful irritation in the male genital area.
According to medical compendiums, balanitis is an inflammation of the glans, the tip of the penis. It can cause redness, pain, itching, and sometimes discharge or a burning sensation when urinating. This condition is often caused by an infection, poor hygiene, irritants like soaps or chemicals, or skin diseases.
The symptoms of balanitis include redness, itching, and a burning sensation on the glans. The skin may become swollen, sensitive, and sometimes show discharge or an unusual odor. Pain may also occur during urination or sexual intercourse, making the area particularly uncomfortable.
In some cases, balanitis can cause intense redness, making the glans and surrounding areas very red, cracked, and even bleeding, leading to significant anxiety. These cracks can also promote secondary infections by providing an entry point for pathogens such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and other infections.
Anyone with balanitis should refrain from sexual activity or, at the very least, use a condom.
How is balanitis treated?
Balanitis is treated based on its cause. If it is due to a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. In the case of a fungal infection, antifungal creams are often used. When irritation comes from irritants, it is recommended to stop using them and clean the area with warm water. Sometimes, mild corticosteroids are used to reduce inflammation. Good hygiene and keeping the area clean and dry are essential for promoting healing and preventing recurrence.
Can circumcision be helpful?
Circumcision can be an effective solution for very recurrent balanitis, especially when usual treatments fail to prevent relapses. By removing the foreskin, moisture, secretions, and bacteria that accumulate under it are reduced, which lowers the risk of irritation and infection.
This procedure is typically considered when episodes of balanitis become frequent and disruptive, or if complications like phimosis — a narrowing of the foreskin that makes it difficult to retract — worsen the situation. However, it is a decision to be discussed with a healthcare professional, who can assess the benefits and risks based on each individual case.
Several types of doctors can diagnose and treat balanitis
The family doctor or general practitioner is often the first to evaluate the symptoms and suggest initial treatment. If the problem is recurrent or complex, a urologist, a specialist in male genital organs and the urinary system, may be consulted.
A dermatologist may also intervene, especially if the balanitis is related to skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis. Finally, if a sexually transmitted infection is involved, an infectious disease specialist or a healthcare provider specializing in sexual health may be involved in follow-up care.
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