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Male reproductive anatomy
Male reproductive anatomy

Penis pain
Definition:
Penis pain is any pain or discomfort in the penis. Priapism, which can cause serious pain, is a persistent, painful erection which does not resolve.

Alternative Names:
Pain - penis; Priapism

Common Causes:
Home Care:

Home care depends on the cause. Consult your health care provider about treatment of the cause. Ice packs may help ease the pain.

If penis pain is caused by a sexually transmitted disease, it is important for the sexual partner(s) to also be treated.

Priapism is a medical emergency, seek care at once. For penis pain caused by priapism that is being treated, consult your health care provider about treatment for the underlying disorder.
Call your health care provider if:

Call your health care provider if you notice any of the following:

  • Pain persists for a prolonged period of time.
  • You have a persistent erection (priapism). Go to the emergency room, call the local emergency number (such as 911), or see your health care provider immediately. Permanent loss of erectile function may result if left untreated for too long.
  • Pain is associated with other unexplained symptoms.
What to expect at your health care provider's office:
The health care provider will perform a physical examination and will obtain a medical history. Medical history questions documenting penis pain in detail may include the following:
  • Time pattern
    • When did it develop?
    • Is it always present?
  • Quality
    • Is it a painful erection (priapism)?
    • Is there pain when the penis is not erect?
    • Is the pain in all of the penis or just a specific part of it?
    • Are there any open sores or other lesions?
  • Aggravating factors
    • Has there been a possibility of trauma to the area?
    • Are you at risk for any sexually transmitted disease?
    • Have you had a known exposure to a sexually transmitted disease?
  • What other symptoms are also present?

The physical examination will probably include a detailed examination of the penis, testicles, scrotum, and groin.

The pain can be treated once its cause is identified. For priapism, a urinary catheter may be inserted to relieve urine retention, and medications or surgery (occasionally) are recommended if necessary. Antibiotics, antiviral medications, or other antimicrobials may be prescribed for infections. Rarely, circumcision is advised for chronic infection under the foreskin.
Review Date: 1/9/2003
Reviewed By: David R. Knowles M.D., Department of Urology, New York-Presbyterian Hospital Columbia Campus, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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