Suppressed in an area that receives a lot of humidity and not much ventilation, penises often smell bad. But if that smell has changed or become more pungent, it may be a sign that something is going on. Most reasons for penis odor can be easily treated and all can be prevented. Let’s learn a little about the most common causes of penis odor and how to prevent foreign odors from invading the area.
# 1: smegma
Smegma brings funk like nothing else and is usually the first thing that comes to mind when the subject of penis smell comes up. Smegma is the accumulation of moisture, oils, and skin cells around the penis and under the foreskin in uncircumcised men. When it accumulates, it can manifest as a lumpy, whitish paste that causes infection and inflammation.
The best way to combat smegma is a thorough wash. With a mild cleanser and warm water, retract the skin from the foreskin and gently wash the area. Then rinse well and pat dry with a soft towel. Repeat every day until smegma is gone.
If the foreskin does not retract or the swelling and irritation do not help, consult a medical professional.
# 2. Yeast infection or thrush
Yeast infections occur when the Candida fungus on the penis grows out of control. This overgrowth gives the penis a musty smell. Yeast infections can also include redness, itching, burning, and thick white discharge. It can be caused by poor hygiene or contraction from a partner.
Men with these symptoms should see a doctor for diagnosis and medication. The most common prescription drug is Diflucan.
# 3: chlamydia
Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that is contracted by having vaginal, oral, or anal sex with someone who is already infected. Chlamydia is tricky because it doesn’t always cause symptoms, but in some cases, people experience penis odor, a burning sensation when urinating, discharge, and swelling of the testicles.
Treatment requires a visit to the doctor to obtain an antibiotic. Treatment can last for seven days, so be sure to abstain from sex while undergoing diagnosis and treatment.
# 4: Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea is also an STI and is spread through intimate contact with the vagina, anus, or the mouth of an infected partner. Like chlamydia, it doesn’t always have symptoms; however, for those who are symptomatic, there is a penis odor as well as a burning sensation when urinating, pain, bleeding, itching, painful bowel movements, and green, yellow, or white discharge.
Gonorrhea treatment also requires a visit to the doctor for diagnosis and treatment. The most common treatment method is a Rocephin injection and a round of oral medications. The course of treatment lasts at least seven days, so avoid intimate contact while receiving diagnosis and treatment.
# 5: non-gonococcal urethritis
Non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU) occurs when the urethra becomes inflamed. It is called “non-gonococcal” because it is caused by something other than gonorrhea. Symptoms include a sour smell, pain and irritation at the tip of the penis, cloudy discharge from the penis, and a burning sensation when urinating.
It is important to seek medical treatment immediately, as NGU can lead to infertility if left untreated. A doctor will prescribe antibiotics to fight the infection and the normal treatment time is seven days. Since NGU can be spread through intimate contact, refrain from sex during diagnosis and treatment.
How to prevent penis odor
There are a few ways to prevent penis odor from ruining a romantic night or leading to more serious medical problems.
– Cleaning the penis regularly: daily is preferred, but be sure to shower after sex and exercise, in addition to the extra days of sweat.
– Wear loose cotton underwear to give the genital area a more breathable environment.
– Sleep naked to give circulation to the genital area.
– Keep pubic hair trimmed, as longer pubic hair can retain odors and retain dirt, moisture, and bacteria.
– Practice safe sex by using condoms and having frank conversations about sexual history and health before having sex.
– Use a specially formulated penis health cream (Health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which is clinically shown to be safe and gentle on the skin) daily in the genital area. These creams are specially created for the area and contain key nutrients to not only hydrate the penis but also to reduce bacteria and promote cell function.
