Penis Pain: Care Instructions
Overview
Different types of pain may occur in the penis. For example, your penis may be red or sore. Or you may notice pain along with a rash or an unusual discharge. You may feel pain in your penis or testicles when you urinate.
Penis pain has many causes. For example, the penis can be injured during sports or a fall. Strenuous sex or long periods of sexual activity can also cause pain.
In some cases, the pain is caused by an infection like a urinary tract infection (UTI) or a sexually transmitted infection (STI). In other cases, the pain is caused by another health problem such as scar tissue in the penis. Sometimes doctors can't find a cause.
Your doctor will first do a physical exam of the penis and possibly the rectum and testicles. Your doctor may also do other tests, such as a urine test or an ultrasound.
Your treatment depends on the cause of the pain, if known.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
How can you care for yourself at home?
- Rest until you feel better. Don't do anything that may cause pain or soreness.
- If the pain is the result of an injury, put ice or a cold pack on the area for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Put a thin cloth between the ice and your skin. And wear snug underwear or compression shorts for extra support. Some people find that wearing an athletic supporter helps to relieve pain.
- Take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
- If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.
When should you call for help?
Call your doctor or nurse advice line now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have severe pain.
- Your pain gets worse.
- You have new symptoms, such as a rash or swelling.
- You have symptoms of a urinary tract infection. These may include:
- Pain or burning when you urinate.
- A frequent need to urinate without being able to pass much urine.
- Pain in the flank, which is just below the rib cage and above the waist on either side of the back.
- Blood in your urine.
- A fever.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse advice line if:
- You do not get better as expected.
Where can you learn more?
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
Enter P904 in the search box to learn more about "Penis Pain: Care Instructions".
Current as of: November 15, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
