What is balanitis?

Balanitis is an inflammation of the glans (head) of the penis. Sometimes the foreskin might also be involved. It may be caused by too much bacteria or yeast growing on the skin of the glans of the penis. It is normal to have bacteria or yeast growing on your skin, but when it grows too much it can cause problems. Balanitis can also be caused by washing too much or too little, irritation from chemicals in things you put on your skin, allergies to some medicines, or because of medical problems like diabetes.

What are the symptoms of balanitis?

• Discomfort or itching of the glans
• A pink or red rash on the glans – this may be smooth, scaly, spotty or patchy
• Unusual discharge or increased moisture under the foreskin
• Unpleasant odour
• Problems retracting your foreskin

Why does it happen?

Your risk of getting balanitis can increase if you:

• Don’t wash often enough
• Wash too often
• Wash with soap, body wash
• Don’t dry yourself after you wash and after passing urine
• Have a small injury (caused by things like friction to the skin during sexual activity)
• Have diabetes.

What is the treatment for balanitis?

The best treatment for balanitis is good hygiene. This means not over washing and not under washing.

When washing, gently pull your foreskin back until your glans is completely uncovered, unless painful to do so. Wash the area each day with a soap substitute such as sorbolene, aqueous cream or soap-free wash. These can be found in most supermarkets or chemists. Avoid prolonged washing with soap or hot water as these remove the natural protective oil on your skin. Ensure the head of the penis and inside the foreskin is dry before replacing the foreskin.

Usually you won’t need medicine, cream or ointment to treat balanitis. Taking good care of your skin will allow it to heal and stop you from getting it again. If you frequently have balanitis, see your health care provider. Occasionally a biopsy is required to diagnose the underlying cause.

Can I have sex?

Yes, it is fine to have sex if you have balanitis – as long as it doesn’t cause you discomfort. You cannot transmit balanitis to your partner.

What do I do if my symptoms don’t go away?

If you have symptoms that won’t go away, see your healthcare provider.

If you need more information or have any questions, please contact the Canberra Sexual Health Centre on (02) 5124 2184 or talk to your GP.

References:

Balanitis fact sheet - Melbourne Sexual Health Centre (MSHC)