There are many possible causes of a sore or swollen penis after sex. These include certain sexual practices, infections, and underlying conditions.
In this article, we look at some of the most common reasons why a person might experience a sore penis after sex. We also discuss treatment options, prevention tips, and when to see a doctor.
There are many possible causes of a sore penis after sex. These include:
Friction
Friction during sex may cause the penis to feel sore afterward. The chance is higher if the sex was particularly rough or involved forceful thrusting, as this can cause excessive friction and irritation. Friction may also cause chafing and discoloration.
Friction can be worse if there is insufficient lubrication during sex. Many sex lubrication products are available on the market, or people can consider using some safe lubricant alternatives.
Allergic reactions
A person may have an allergic reaction to items that they used during sex, such as latex condoms, spermicides, or sex toys. The individual may experience soreness or irritation on or around the penis and genital area. An allergic reaction can be immediate or delayed.
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, less than 1% of people in the United States have a latex allergy.
Prostatitis
The
- bacterial infection
- chemicals in the urine
- a previous urinary tract infection (UTI) causing a response in the immune system
- pelvic nerve damage
Phimosis
Phimosis is a condition in which the foreskin is too tight to retract over the head of the penis. Phimosis only affects people who have not undergone circumcision, and it is
During sex, phimosis may cause pain, skin splitting, or a lack of sensation. Wearing a condom and using a lubricant can help make sexual intercourse more comfortable.
Balanitis
Balanitis is an inflammation of the head of the penis, which
Unprotected sex, poor hygiene, allergies, and chemical irritants may increase the risk of balanitis. A person can also develop balanitis if they engage in sexual activity with someone who has vaginal thrush.
People with a tendency to develop balanitis after sex can reduce their risk by washing their penis after engaging in sexual activity.
Sexually transmitted infection
In some cases, a sore or irritated penis could indicate a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Some common STIs include genital herpes, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis.
Other symptoms of STIs in people with a penis can include:
- an itching or burning sensation in the penis
- discharge from the penis
- pelvic pain
- sores, blisters, or lumps on or around the penis, anus, or mouth
- pain or a burning sensation when urinating
- a frequent need to use the toilet
Urinary tract infection
If bacteria from the digestive system reach the urinary tract, they can multiply and cause a UTI. This infection may cause irritation and inflammation of the penis.
The symptoms of a UTI can include:
- pain in the lower abdomen, pelvic area, and lower back
- the frequent or urgent need to urinate, even if the body is not producing much urine
- burning or pain when urinating
- cloudy urine
- unpleasant smell to urine
Anyone unsure what is causing a sore penis after sex should see a doctor. The doctor will work to diagnose the cause by taking a medical and sexual history, asking about the symptoms, and carrying out a physical examination.
Blood tests, urine samples, and fluid samples from the penis can help doctors diagnose STIs or other infections. To diagnose prostatitis, a doctor may insert a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to examine the prostate.
The type of treatment will depend on what is causing a sore penis after sex. Treatments may include:
- antibiotics for UTIs, bacterial infections, and some STIs
- antiviral medication for symptoms of genital herpes
- topical antifungals or steroids for balanitis
- topical medication or, in some cases, surgery for phimosis
- abstinence from sexual activity if the pain is due to friction
People may be able to treat some cases of a sore penis at home. The following steps may help ease irritation or mild pain:
- washing the penis with warm water, including under the foreskin
- drying the head of the penis gently after bathing and going to the toilet
- washing the penis with salt water, which may help relieve uncomfortable symptoms, such as itching
- taking over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce soreness or tenderness
People can take steps to prevent getting a sore penis after sex. These include:
- refraining from engaging in rough or vigorous sex
- using hypoallergenic condoms and avoiding products that could be causing irritation
- undergoing regular testing for STIs and discussing this with sexual partners
- maintaining good genital hygiene
- washing the hands before and after going to the toilet
- cleaning under the foreskin with soap and warm water
- using non-oil-based lubrication during sex to help prevent irritation due to friction
People may wish to see a doctor if they are unsure what is causing them to have a sore penis after sex, particularly if at-home treatment is not effective.
Anyone who has any severe symptoms, experiences severe pain, or has symptoms of a condition such as prostatitis or an STI should see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
People should seek immediate medical attention if they experience:
- a severe allergic reaction
- severe penile trauma
- total inability to urinate
- fever and chills with urination problems
- blood in the urine
- severe pain in the lower abdomen and urinary tract
People may experience a sore penis after sex for a variety of reasons. It may be possible to treat some causes, such as friction, by using at-home treatments and refraining from engaging in vigorous sex.
If an underlying condition or infection is causing a sore penis, medical treatment may be necessary. This treatment may involve oral or topical medication or, in some cases, surgery.