Unusual male discharge not associated with STDs: Exploring 5 potential causes
In the realm of sexual health, penile discharge can be a concerning issue for many men. However, it's essential to understand that not all cases of penile discharge are related to sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). This article aims to shed light on the various non-STD causes of penile discharge and the treatment approaches for each.
One common non-STD cause of penile discharge is urethral irritation, which can stem from physical trauma or extreme physical activity. Activities such as long-distance cycling, which put pressure on the perineal or urethral area, can lead to inflammation of the urethra (urethritis) causing discharge without infection [1].
Chemical irritants, such as soaps, detergents, spermicides, or other chemicals, can also irritate the urethral lining, resulting in non-infectious discharge [1][2]. Urethral syndrome, a condition characterised by urethral irritation and inflammation without an identifiable infection, may also lead to penile discharge [1].
Poor hygiene or allergies can contribute to penile discharge as well. Poor genital hygiene or allergic reactions to soaps and topical products can cause redness, swelling, and discharge [2]. Mechanical causes, such as trauma to the urethra due to accidents or manipulation, can also result in inflammation and discharge without a sexually transmitted infection [3][5].
Some autoimmune or systemic conditions, such as Sjogren’s syndrome, may be associated with nonspecific urethritis and penile discharge [5].
In terms of treatment, avoiding irritants, maintaining good hygiene practices, and managing physical trauma are key. Discontinuing use of irritating soaps, spermicides, or chemicals helps reduce inflammation [1][2]. Maintaining proper genital hygiene lowers the risk of irritation and secondary infections [2]. Rest and avoiding activities causing perineal pressure (e.g., prolonged cycling) can alleviate symptoms [1]. Inflammation may be managed with topical soothing agents or anti-inflammatory medications under medical advice [1].
Given that symptoms may mimic infection, consultation with a healthcare provider is crucial to exclude infectious causes and to receive appropriate treatment if needed. Diagnosis may involve urine tests and urethral swabs to rule out STDs [5].
While smegma, a natural substance that lubricates the head of the penis, is not an STD and is not infectious, an overgrowth of unhealthy bacteria in smegma can cause a bad smell and may play a role in certain infections, including urinary tract infections (UTIs) [6]. Uncircumcised men tend to have more noticeable smegma because the foreskin traps it under the head of the penis [7].
When it comes to prostate-related issues, prostatitis, an inflammation of the prostate gland, can sometimes be a cause of penile discharge. The prostate, a walnut-shaped gland that surrounds the urethra and sits at the front of the rectum, makes prostate fluid, which helps lubricate semen [8]. Chronic prostatitis can develop due to a problem with the immune system or following damage to the prostate or surrounding nerves [9].
It is advisable for a person to consult a doctor about penile discharge if they experience discharge that is not from pre-ejaculate or ejaculate, pain when urinating or having sex, swelling on or around the penis, a foul smell coming from the penis, a fever, or other signs of infection [10].
References: [1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Urethritis. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/urethritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355344 [2] Healthline. (2021). Non-STD Causes of Penile Discharge. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/non-std-causes-of-penile-discharge [3] Urology Care Foundation. (2021). Prostatitis. Retrieved from https://www.urologyhealth.org/urologic-conditions/prostatitis [4] Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2021). Prostatitis. Retrieved from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/prostatitis [5] American Urological Association. (2021). Prostatitis. Retrieved from https://www.auanet.org/patient-care/disease/prostatitis [6] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Smegma. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/smegma/symptoms-causes/syc-20375892 [7] Healthline. (2021). What is Smegma? Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/smegma [8] Healthline. (2021). Prostate Gland. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/human-body-maps/prostate-gland [9] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Prostatitis. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/prostatitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355344 [10] Healthline. (2021). When to See a Doctor About Penile Discharge. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/when-to-see-a-doctor-about-penile-discharge
- Men with conditions like Sjogren’s syndrome might experience nonspecific urethritis and penile discharge due to their systemic issues [5].
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that doesn't normally cause penile discharge, but it can impact sexual health and general health-and-wellness [science].
- Diabetes, particularly uncontrolled diabetes, is associated with an increased risk of getting fungal infections of the male genitalia [atopic].
- Certain medications used in the treatment of HIV may cause side effects like urinary system infections, which could lead to penile discharge [hiv].
- Type 2 diabetes, coupled with obesity, may contribute to eczema, a skin condition that might also show symptoms on the penis [diabetes, eczema].
- Depression can affect a man's overall health and well-being, potentially impacting various aspects of men’s health, including sexual health [depression].
- Ankylosing spondylitis, a form of arthritis, though primarily affecting the spine, can have systemic impacts and may manifest as sexual dysfunction or urinary system issues [ankylosing].
- Proctitis, an inflammation of the rectum, can sometimes cause discomfort and discharge in the surrounding urethral area [type].
- Sclerosis of the prostate gland is a less common condition that may cause penile discharge if the prostatic fluid becomes infected or obstructed [sclerosis].
- A fungal infection of the male genitalia, if left untreated, can potentially lead to complications like eczema or other skin irritations [fungalinfectionofmale].
- A predictive analysis on the basis of multiple medical-conditions and lifestyle factors could help healthcare providers identify men at higher risk of developing penile discharge or sexual health issues [predictive].
- COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, may not directly cause penile discharge, but its symptoms like shortness of breath and increased susceptibility to infections could indirectly affect sexual health [copd].
- Proper medical guidance and regular check-ups are essential for managing and treating penile discharge, as well as maintaining overall men’s health and sexual health [health, medical-conditions, mens-health].
