Balanitis

Balanitis is an inflammation of the head of the penis (also known as the glans penis or glans). It is sometimes accompanied by inflammation of the foreskin (skin covering the glans), a condition known as prosthitis. When the glans and foreskin are both affected, the condition is known as balanoposthitis.

Symptoms include:

• Pain or irritation
• Pain during urination
• Difficulty urinating
• Itching or burning sensation
• Redness
• Swelling
• Discharge from under the foreskin

Causes and triggers

A common cause of balanitis is inadequate hygiene in uncircumcised individuals. The area beneath the foreskin tends to favour the growth of yeast and bacteria. Other, less common causes are:

• Using irritating products
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• Allergic reactions (e.g. latex allergy)
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Cancer (in rare cases)

In an uncircumcised person, balanitis can lead to complications if left untreated. More specifically, the foreskin can get stuck on or under the glans if the penis becomes swollen. Scars may also form on the foreskin.

Treatment

For this condition, children and adults are treated very similarly. Treatment typically depends on what is causing the inflammation.

Often, it's a matter of finding the right balance between improving hygiene without overusing potentially irritating cleansing products. Products such as scented soaps, lotions, and sprays should be avoided. For example, in the event of an allergic reaction, a cortisone-based product can be applied to help reduce inflammation.

If a bacterial infection is to blame, an antibiotic will be prescribed. If the inflammation is caused by a yeast infection, an antifungal medication will be used. Female partners of individuals with balanitis caused by a yeast infection should be offered testing or preventive treatment. In some cases, circumcision may also be considered.

The best way to prevent balanitis is to adopt good personal hygiene habits and treat any conditions that may promote its appearance, such as diabetes. Uncircumcised men should pull back their foreskin and rinse their glans penis with warm water and gentle soap every day. If the balanitis is caused by a specific kind of soap, stop using it and rinse the foreskin with water only.

When should I see a health care professional?

Speak with your health care provider in the following cases:

• You experience pain, tenderness, or itching around the glans
• You notice redness around the glans or foreskin
• You feel pain when you urinate
• You have trouble urinating
• You notice a foul-smelling discharge beneath the foreskin

You should immediately speak with your health care provider in the following cases:

• Your foreskin remains stuck under the glans and you are unable to put it back. This could cause permanent damage.