Penis Fissures Cause Pain and Irritation in the Intimate Area Due to Poor Hygiene, Friction, and Other Factors. Proper Treatment Can Prevent Complications. Learn More.
Taking care of intimate health is essential to avoid problems and discomfort, such as penis fissures. Some fissures may go unnoticed initially, but when persistent, they can cause discomfort and require medical attention.
Penis fissures can appear anywhere on the organ. If not treated correctly, some fissures may lead to complications. Common causes include local irritations, poor hygiene, or even health conditions such as infections and diabetes.
Keep reading to learn how to prevent penile wounds and other signs of penis fissures.
What Are Penis Fissures?
Penis fissures are small cuts or cracks that can appear on the glans, foreskin, or shaft. They usually start as superficial lesions, but if not properly cared for, they can progress to infections or deeper wounds.
It is important to clarify that fissures are different from penile sores, such as ulcerations or cracks on the glans, which tend to be more uncomfortable and severe.
Main Causes of Penis Fissures
There are several causes of penile fissures, but the main ones are related to daily habits. Check them out:
Sex Without Lubrication
Lack of lubrication can cause excessive friction during sexual intercourse, leading to penis fissures after sex. These lesions may be small cuts or cracks that cause significant discomfort.
Poor Intimate Hygiene
Lack of proper hygiene can make the penile skin irritated and more prone to cuts. Good hygiene is essential to prevent problems.
Frequent Friction
Wearing tight clothes, rough fabrics, and engaging in sex without adequate lubrication increases friction in the intimate area. This friction can cause irritation and facilitate the appearance of penis fissures, especially if the skin is already dry or sensitive.
Allergies and Skin Conditions
Products such as soaps, lubricants, or creams used daily can cause allergies and irritation, leading to cracks on the penis.
Phimosis
The inability to fully expose the glans due to phimosis can cause fissures in the foreskin, especially in cases of friction and poor hygiene.
Infections
Infections caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses can lead to irritation in the region, such as an inflamed glans, which increases the risk of fissures and other lesions.
Diabetes
Men with diabetes may have drier skin and be more prone to infections, which increases the likelihood of penis fissures.
Symptoms and Warning Signs
Penis fissures can be accompanied by different symptoms that indicate when to seek medical help. The main warning signs include:
- Pain in the penis, especially during or after sex;
- Burning sensation when urinating, which may indicate irritation or infection in the affected area;
- Redness or swelling around the penile lesion;
- Inflamed foreskin;
- Flaking or dry penis appearance;
- Small cuts on the skin covering the glans;
- Abnormal secretions or foul odor in the intimate area.
If these symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to see a urologist for proper evaluation and guidance.
Diagnosis and Recommended Treatments
When a man notices signs of penile fissures, the first step is to seek evaluation from a healthcare professional.
Diagnosis is usually made through a clinical examination. The doctor will assess the appearance of the lesions and investigate possible causes. In some cases, laboratory tests may be required to confirm infections or allergies.
Treatments depend on the cause, but the main options include:
- Topical creams and ointments: These products help relieve irritation and promote skin healing, especially in cases of dry skin or small cuts.
- Antibiotics or antifungals: Recommended when bacterial or fungal infections are present, to combat microorganisms that cause inflammation or irritation.
- Surgery: In cases of severe phimosis, circumcision (foreskin removal) may be necessary to treat and prevent new fissures.
- Proper hygiene: Improving the hygiene routine and avoiding irritating products are part of the treatment and prevention.
How to Prevent Penis Fissures?
Preventing penis fissures requires simple daily care to avoid conditions that promote their appearance. Check out some recommendations:
- Proper hygiene: Wash the intimate area daily with warm water and mild soap. Rinse well to avoid residue buildup that may cause irritation, and dry thoroughly.
- Moisturizing: Use a penis fissure ointment or moisturizing creams to keep the skin elastic and protected, especially if it is dry or sensitive.
- Condoms: Always use condoms during sex. They help reduce friction, preventing injuries, and also protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- Lubrication: Use lubricants during sex, especially for anal sex, as the region does not have natural lubrication.
- Avoid irritating products: Choose soaps, lubricants, and other intimate products that are free of fragrances or harsh chemicals that may cause allergies.
- Regular medical check-ups: Patients with diabetes or other skin-affecting health conditions, such as allergies, should keep up with medical appointments.
Noticing Fissures with Other Symptoms? Seek Medical Advice
If you notice penis fissures accompanied by more severe symptoms, it is advisable to consult a doctor and never ignore these signs. They may indicate the need for immediate treatment.
A consultation with a urologist can help assess the issue and recommend the most suitable treatment. Early care can help prevent complications.
Maintaining preventive care and seeking medical advice when necessary can help reduce the risk of fissures and related complications. Learn more about preventing other penile conditions on the blog!
