Balanitis
More details/information for students
Balanitis is an inflammation of the glans (head) of the penis. It
usually causes redness and/or a blotchy rash on the glans, sometimes with
a discharge. The condition may be itchy or uncomfortable but often feels
completely normal.
 
Click on images for magnified view.
Why balanitis occurs
Balanitis is not sexually transmitted. It results from an overgrowth of
organisms that are normally present on the skin of the glans. The
condition most commonly occurs in men who have a foreskin (i.e. have not
been circumcised). The environment under the foreskin is warm and moist,
and these conditions favour growth of organisms that cause
balanitis.
These organisms are able to multiply and cause
inflammation if moisture is allowed to persist under the foreskin for a
while. This may be more likely to occur if you have not washed for a couple of days, or
sometimes after sexual activity (vaginal, oral or anal - with or without a
condom).
One of the most common organisms associated with balanitis is a yeast
known as Candida albicans. Balanitis can result from
an overgrowth of Candida due to moisture and warmth under the foreskin.
It is important to remember that Candida is normally present under the
foreskin in small quantities. In normal amounts it doesn't cause any
problems and does not require treatment.
Sometimes there are underlying conditions, for example
diabetes or skin conditions, that make balanitis worse.
Management of balanitis
The aim of treatment is to keep the area clean and dry to make it difficult for
organisms to grow under the foreskin Medication (e.g. cream or ointment) is rarely necessary, and is usually
less effective than good hygiene.
Partners do not require treatment unless they have
symptoms.
Guidelines for foreskin hygiene
 |
Once a day, ideally when you have a shower, slide your foreskin
back towards your body until the glans is completely uncovered (Figures 1a and
1b). Do not use any force. If there is any
resistance or discomfort, check with a doctor. |
 |
| Wash the end of your penis and foreskin thoroughly
using warm water only. Alternatively, sorbolene and glycerine cream
(available from chemists and supermarkets) may be used as a
substitute for soap. |
 |
After washing, dry the end of the penis and foreskin
thoroughly. If convenient, sit with the glans exposed to the air for
10 minutes. More thorough drying can be achieved by using a fan or
hair dryer (Figure 2). |
 |
After drying, replace the foreskin (Figures 3a
& 3b). |
 |
 |
When you urinate, slide the foreskin back so that urine does not
wet the foreskin (Figures 4a & 4b). After urination, dry the end of the
penis and replace the foreskin. |
 |
If you are prone to develop balanitis a few hours after sex, wash
the penis as described above, shortly after having sex. Make sure the glans
is completely dry before replacing the foreskin.
These measures should lead to a rapid improvement in symptoms and will
help prevent balanitis in future.
If you experience repeated
attacks of balanitis despite adequate foreskin hygiene, consult your
doctor.
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