Why Does the Head of My Penis Hurt?

Thanks for your question. It can be concerning when you feel discomfort in the glans, or the head of your penis. Rest assured, you’re not alone, and the cause is usually something that can be treated. Let’s go over a few common reasons why this might be happening:

1. Balanitis: Inflammation of the Glans

Balanitis is a condition where the glans becomes inflamed, and it’s more common in individuals who are uncircumcised (meaning you still have your foreskin). It’s typically caused by infections, such as a yeast infection or a sexually transmitted infection (STI), both of which are treatable.

2. Skin Conditions

Sometimes, skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema can affect the skin on your penis. If you have these conditions, they might cause irritation or discomfort in various areas, including the glans.

3. Injury or Trauma

Any trauma or irritation to the glans, such as from a physical injury or irritation from products like lubricants, can lead to discomfort. Even mild trauma or the wrong kind of product can irritate the sensitive skin in this area.

When to See a Healthcare Provider

The good news is that most causes of glans discomfort are easily treatable. We recommend seeing a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation. They’ll likely ask you about your symptoms, do a physical examination (including looking at your penis), and possibly run some tests like a urine test to rule out infections. From there, they can prescribe the appropriate treatment, whether for balanitis, an STI, or another cause.

How to Prevent Balanitis

The best way to prevent balanitis is through good hygiene practices. Here are a few things we recommend:

• Wash your penis regularly with warm water and a gentle soap.
• If you are uncircumcised, gently retract your foreskin and clean underneath to prevent any irritation or infection.