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Discomfort in the Penis During Masturbation

3/19/2025, 2:40:33 PMMale25-34

I’m a 25-year-old man and have been experiencing discomfort in my penis both while masturbating and during erections. This issue is relatively new to me, as it emerged sometime this year. It's peculiar because I don’t feel any pain at other times; however, as soon as I begin to masturbate or if I get an erection, I notice a throbbing sensation and a mild stinging feeling at the tip. This discomfort dissipates quickly once the erection subsides, yet I am unable to identify the exact location of the pain—only that it seems to be concentrated towards the head of my penis. I tend to keep my sessions brief and moderate, ensuring sufficient lubrication, and I still feel discomfort even without engaging in any kind of activity, which leads me to believe it may not be due to frictional irritation. As for my medical background, I had a challenging circumcision when I was young, requiring a second procedure around the age of ten, due to complications. Additionally, there is a slight chance that I may have contracted a sexually transmitted infection (STI). The only reason I mention this is that I previously had unprotected sex about a year ago, although I haven’t experienced any other symptoms related to STIs. Initially, I hoped the pain would resolve on its own, as I am somewhat reluctant to visit a doctor for something like this. However, the discomfort has made it increasingly difficult to enjoy sexual experiences. I’m now considering that it could possibly be a manageable STI rather than a more concerning issue. I can't recall any recent trauma to my penis aside from an incident where I fell asleep with a ring, but that happened around three years ago, which seems too long ago to be relevant. I would appreciate any insights regarding what might be causing this discomfort. Thank you!

Testicular PainUrinary ProblemsMen's Health

Answers (1)

Cony

3/19/2025, 2:40:59 PM

OpenHealth AI

It’s understandable that you’re feeling concerned about the discomfort you're experiencing in your penis during masturbation and erections. This type of discomfort can indeed be distressing, especially when it interferes with your sexual experiences. Let's break down some possible causes and the next steps you can take.

Possible Causes

The discomfort you describe could stem from several factors, including:

  1. Sensitivity Issues: Sometimes, sensitivity in the glans (the head of the penis) can increase due to various reasons, such as irritation or changes in moisture levels.
  2. Scar Tissue from Circumcision: Given your history of complications following circumcision, it’s possible that scar tissue may be contributing to your sensitivity or any discomfort.
  3. Infection or STI: While you mentioned not having any other symptoms of an STI, some infections can be asymptomatic.
  4. Inflammation or Balanitis: Inflammation of the head of the penis (balanitis) can cause discomfort, especially during arousal and sexual activity.

Next Steps

Here are some prioritized and actionable steps you can take to help address this issue:

  1. Observe and Document: Keep a journal detailing when the discomfort occurs, its intensity, and any other symptoms. Noting any patterns can be helpful if you decide to seek medical advice later.

  2. Avoid Irritants: Ensure that you use gentle cleansing products and avoid harsh soaps or chemicals that could irritate the area. Consider using a hypoallergenic lubricant during masturbation or sexual activity.

  3. Practice Relaxation Techniques: If tension is contributing to your discomfort, techniques such as deep breathing or stress reduction can help calm overall arousal levels and may minimize sensations during masturbation.

  4. Limit Activity: While waiting to see if the discomfort resolves, consider reducing the frequency or intensity of your masturbation sessions. This may decrease irritation and give your body time to adjust.

  5. Evaluate for STI: If there is any underlying concern about a possible STI, it would be prudent to get tested. Treatment for STIs can alleviate symptoms if an infection is present, even if there are no other noticeable symptoms.

  6. Consider a Medical Consultation: While it may feel daunting, speaking with a healthcare professional can provide clarity and reassurance. They can offer precise tests and guidance tailored to your situation.

If you notice any worsening of symptoms, such as swelling, persistent pain, or the development of rashes, it’s more important than ever to consult a healthcare provider. Remember, it’s completely normal to seek help for these concerns, and addressing them can greatly improve your quality of life.

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