OpenHealth Q&A

Lifelong Discomfort with Penile Pain

At 24 years old, I've consistently dealt with a nagging pain beneath the glans of my penis. This discomfort started in my childhood, especially when my underwear would bunch up awkwardly, causing irritation to my urethra. I find it difficult to articulate the feeling, but it was undeniably bothersome. Additionally, I observed some peculiar features regarding my anatomy. For instance, my urethral opening is not perfectly positioned at the tip, though it is very close, and there exists a reddish mark on the underside of the shaft that resembles a birthmark. I also noticed unusual ridges along the underside of the glans. My parents mentioned that I underwent a hypospadias repair when I was an infant, but it didn't quite register for years. I later realized that the red spot was a scar from the procedure, and the slight misalignment of the urethra was likely a result of the surgical imperfections. Overall, apart from being somewhat smaller than the average size, my penis appears normal, and my urine stream is just fine. My doctor expressed satisfaction during our follow-up appointments, and I feel grateful that the surgery was deemed 'successful.' When I turned 11, I began to experience a burning sensation at the tip of my urethra during urination, which has persisted intermittently throughout my life. Medical professionals suggested it might be due to dehydration or constipation, but those visits didn't yield any substantial solutions. Occasionally, I still feel discomfort while urinating; however, staying well-hydrated usually alleviates the issue. During puberty, I started to explore masturbation, and I quickly learned that gripping the underside of the glans was excruciating; I could only touch the sides without discomfort. This sharp, stabbing pain occurred whenever my hand made contact with the urethral area. Now, a decade later, my technique remains unchanged, with no improvement in my situation. The first time I attempted to have sex, the pain was overwhelming when my partner touched me, and any attempt at oral sex resulted in significant discomfort. Because of this, I haven't felt comfortable attempting intercourse, as the mere thought of the associated pain leads me to lose my erection entirely. I'm left uncertain about my next steps. I suspect there's a possibility that these issues stem from complications related to my earlier surgery, but I’m seeking clarity. Are there treatments available for someone in my position, or is this something I’ll have to endure indefinitely? Is it common for men to experience pain during sexual activities? I would greatly appreciate any guidance or advice—my greatest wish is to lead a normal life, and I am anxious that these issues will persist. Thank you!

Answers (1)

3/26/2025, 1:50:55 AM

OpenHealth AI

It sounds like you've been facing significant discomfort related to pain beneath the glans of your penis, likely linked to your history of hypospadias and associated complications. It’s completely understandable to feel anxious about these ongoing issues, and you're not alone; many men do experience discomfort relating to their anatomy, particularly following surgical interventions.

Key Points:

1. Persistent pain in the genital area can stem from anatomical variations or scars from surgeries.
2. Issues related to sexual activity and discomfort are not uncommon, and there are treatment options available.
3. Staying hydrated can help manage some symptoms, but it may not resolve the underlying causes.

Explanation:

The discomfort you describe, especially surrounding the urethral opening and during sexual activities, may be related to the surgical differences post-hypospadias repair. The presence of a scar, anatomical misalignment, or sensitivity in those areas can contribute to pain during touch, urination, or sexual activity. Additionally, your previous experience of burning sensations could indicate ongoing irritation or sensitivity, possibly exacerbated by other factors like dehydration or skin conditions.

Next Steps:

1. Maintain Hydration: Continue to drink plenty of water; it helps dilute urine and can ease irritative symptoms during urination.
2. Gentle Care: Be mindful of how you touch the sensitive areas. Avoid excessive pressure and consider using lubrication, which might reduce discomfort if attempting any sexual activity or self-exploration.
3. Document Symptoms: Keep a record of when the pain occurs, its intensity, and any triggers (like specific activities or types of clothing). This information can be helpful if seeking further medical advice.
4. Consult a Urologist: While you may have had previous evaluations, pursuing a specialist consultation could provide more tailored solutions. A urologist can assess for any anatomical complications linked to your previous surgery, recommend potential treatments (like medications, topical therapies, or possibly revision of the surgery if indicated), and provide guidance on managing pain during sexual activities.
5. Explore Therapy Options: If anxiety about sexual experiences affects your wellbeing, consider consulting a mental health professional who specializes in sexual health. They can assist in addressing your concerns.

It’s absolutely valid to seek clarity and a path forward, particularly with the impact these issues have on your quality of life. You're taking a significant and positive step by reaching out and exploring options for improvement. Feel free to reach out with any further questions or concerns.